The Recording Academy and its charity arm MusiCares have launched the COVID-19 Relief Fund to help musicians and figures across the music world who’ve been affected by the global coronavirus pandemic. The Academy and MusiCares have each submitted an initial $1 million donation to the fund. Harvey Mason Jr., the interim CEO of the Recording Academy, said in a statement:
Event cancellations are at unprecedented levels and the situation
therefore requires an unprecedented response. Many people in the
industry are now in crisis, not knowing what the future holds or
having to deal with dire commercial realities. We are asking the
entire industry to stand with us to support the musicians, artists and
professionals who are the bedrock and the future of our music
community.
MusiCares chari Steve Boom added:
The music industry is built on the work of musicians, artists, and
music professionals. It is in times like these, that the industry
needs to come together to support those who are struggling,
particularly those who rely on touring incomes to survive. We know
this fund will need to be significant. We will not be able to do it
alone, and that’s why we are asking the entire music community
including 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 important that we’re all in when times are tough, too.
Artists have been forced to cancel tours and festival appearances due to COVID-19. Read “A Working Guitarist In Italy’s Hardest-Hit Coronavirus City Talks Life Under Lockdown” on the Pitch.