Live Nation launches $10m fund for crew members

As the world’s concerts landscape enters a deep-freeze, Live Nation launches a US$10 million ($16 million) fund to support the roadies, techs and all the back-stage professionals whose livelihoods are on the line.

The world’s biggest concert promoter today unveils Crew Nation, a charitable fund into which it’s contributing an initial US$5 million to support employees from across the live ecosystem. LN will then match the next US$5 million donated by artists, fans and staff.

“Crew members are the backbone of the live music industry, and we hope you’ll join us in supporting them through this temporary intermission until we can once again unite millions around the world through the power of live music,” reads a statement.

Crew Nation is powered by Music Forward Foundation, a charitable not-for-profit organization, that will be administering the fund.

To donate, buy merch or learn more visit the Crew Nation site for more.

Australia’s live music community has taken a beating through the health crisis and unprecedented bushfire season. According to the I Lost My Gig service, more than $325 million has been lost through event cancellations and postponements across Australia and New Zealand.

After several weeks of on-off talks with the creative industries, the federal government on Monday announced a new phase in its economic response to the Coronavirus emergency.

Through the JobKeeper initiative, $1,500 will be delivered to the accounts of eligible employees each fortnight for up to six months, the cornerstone in Canberra’s $130 billion stimulus package. Presumably live music professionals will benefit from the scheme, though the finer points have yet to be disclosed.

Part-time workers and casuals with at least one year in their position can receive the payments, which should start flowing from next month.

This article originally appeared on The Industry Observer, which is now part of The Music Network.