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It Was 20 Years Ago-Ish
Since industry folk aren’t really posing together much at the moment, we offer this vintage trade shot from the year 2000—while noting that “standing close together with your arms around one another’s shoulders” now seems like the equivalent of a coke-fueled orgy in the Studio 54 bathroom. We also note that everyone pictured here still looks sensational 20 years later, while we are horrifically weathered.
MusiCares Relief Fund Off to Strong Start
n 3/17, the Recording Academy realities. We are asking the entire industry to tant that we’re all in when times are tough too.” and MusiCares established the stand with us to support the musicians, artists Within the first week of the fund’s exis- COVID-19 Relief Fund to aid and professionals who are the bedrock and the tence, Amazon Music, SiriusXM and Pandora, people in the music industry af- future of our music community.” Spotify, Facebook, Tidal and YouTube Music
fected by the disease and subsequent cancella- Added MusiCares Chair Steve Boom, “We and the Michael Jackson Estate had answered
tion of multiple music events. The Academy is also leading a call for government action for the industry and planning online concerts.
To establish the fund, the Academy and MusiCares contributed a kickoff donation of $1m each. Additionally, all Recording Acad- emy chapters have committed to fundraising in their communities.
“Event cancellations are at unprecedented levels, and the situation therefore requires an unprecedented response,” Academy Chair/ Interim CEO Harvey Mason Jr. wrote in his initial statement. “Many people in the industry are now in crisis, not knowing what the future holds or having to deal with dire commercial
are asking the entire music community—includ- ing labels, streaming services, and anyone who is able—to join us in this important effort. We’re all in when the good times roll, and it’s impor-
the call and are all contributing.
“The music community is in great need, so
the Recording Academy greatly appreciates the collective support and emergency aid that this coalition of music industry and tech leaders has provided,” said Mason. “We hope these part- nerships inspire other organizations to stand behind the music community in this time of great uncertainty. We continue to encourage our peers to embrace the collaborative power of music and to support impacted industry profes- sionals in both trying and good times.”
Since establishing the fund, MusiCares and the Academy have raised millions and are continuing to add to it.
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