Warner Music Australia launches star-studded charity auction

Warner Music Australia is doing its bit to help music industry folks doing it tough.

The major label launched Got Ya Back overnight, an online charity auction where music fans can bid on and win one-of-a-kind backpacks.

Each of the 16 backpacks has been altered, “given the once over” and packed with goodies by local and international acts on the Warner roster.

Those artists include A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, Annie-Marie, Bazzi, Charli XCX, Coldplay, Death Cab For Cutie, Morgan Evans, Rob Thomas, Royal Blood, Rudimental and Why Don’t We.

Got Ya Back will happen on eBay from today and runs until 8pm on Sunday (May 17).

he proceeds from the auction will go to Support Act to help struggling industry workers.

Warner’s Australian general manager, Beth Appleton, said the label’s artists were all too happy to help people in the music community through a difficult period.

“Our artist’s love coming to Australia and have worked with so many of the country’s finest roadies, lighting and sound engineers, and support crew,” she said.

“Given the impact of the coronavirus on the world right now, they want to give back to those in the music industry who are hurting via the amazing work that Support Act does.”

Each unique backpack includes collectables like signed drumskin from Coldplay, AAA passes from Rita Ora, a handwritten journal by Grouplove and a worn t-shirt off Gerard Way’s own back.

At 9am on Friday, Thomas’ backpack was leading the bids at $510.

In announcing the initiative, Warner said they’re hoping to raise as much money for Support Act as possible in what is a difficult time for the industry.

The music charity’s CEO, Clive Miller, told TMN the initiative will “be like Christmas” for winners.

“This is such a great idea and we hope that fans of these artists have a lot of fun bidding on the items and hopefully winning them,” he said.

“All the proceeds will help Support Act provide crisis relief and mental health and wellness support to artists, crew and music workers who are doing it tough during the pandemic.”

Warner said the idea for Gota Ya Back was spawned from its 2013 In Their Shoes auction.