Live Nation’s ‘Crew Nation’ fund raises US$15 million for out-of-work backstage professionals

Live Nation’s Global Relief Fund has raised US$15 million, to support 15,000 roadies, techs and all the backstage crew now out of work due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The global concerts giant launched its “Crew Nation” charitable fund earlier in the year as gigs around the globe went into hibernation.

The fund kicked off with a US$5 million donation from Live Nation, which then matched the next US$5 million donated from artists, fans and staff for a total contribution of US$10 million from the entertainment group.

LN is urging live music fans to dig deep. “Help us get to $30 million so we can continue to support them while concerts are still on pause,” the company states in a social post.

The Fund has received support from a long list of artists and industry organisations, including BTS and Big Hit Entertainment, U2, Metallica, Foo Fighters, Lady Gaga, Coldplay, Billie Eilish, Harry Styles and many more.

In addition to collecting donations, Crew Nation has set up a merch line with all proceeds benefiting out-of-work stage crew.

“Concerts wouldn’t be possible without the many crew members working behind the scenes every step of the way, and we want to make sure that as independent workers, they get the support they need from both the industry and the government,” Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino said in a statement.

“Live Nation is proud to be among the many artists, donors, partners and fans who are helping drive this mission forward and support those who make the magic of live possible.”

As previously reported, Crew Nation is powered by Music Forward Foundation, a charitable not-for-profit organisation that administers the fund.

Crew looking for financial support can apply through Live Nation’s website.

LN itself has taken a huge hit during the pandemic.

Last week, the entertainment giant posted adjusted operating losses of US$431.9 million in the second quarter – the first full reporting period of the health emergency – with the concerts division reporting just US$141.8 million of revenue. That’s 95% lower than the US$2.64 billion reported in the corresponding period in 2019.

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