Fender commits $100,000 to replacing instruments lost in LA fires
Following the devastating fires in LA, Fender is committing $100,000 to help replace instruments and gear lost to the disaster.
Since the fires broke out on 7 January, a number of musicians, brands, and other industry figures have come forward with missions to support those who have lost homes and belongings, as well as offering support to the LA fire department. It is now believed that 25 people have died in the fires.
READ MORE: “When you hear someone say they’ve lost everything in a fire, this is much of that everything”: John Mayer shares heartfelt message following LA wildfires
In a statement shared to Instagram, Fender – which was founded in California and is headquartered in Arizona – says, “We are devastated by the fires continuing to rage across Los Angeles – a city that many of our employees and artist communities call home. As a Southern California guitar-maker for over 75 years, we are struggling to process what our diverse and deep-rooted music scene has lost. We grieve alongside you.
“To those affected: we are committed to finding immediate and impactful ways to support you, today and in the days to come. To the first responders: thank you for your tireless fight to contain these fires and keep our city safe.”
Fender has a form available on its website now, where LA based musicians can submit their details, “We know how important music is – not just to an artist’s livelihood, but to every player’s health and happiness,” it states. “We are initially committing $100,000 to this effort. We will respond and help replenish requests to the best of our abilities.”
Fender further states that it is also identifying more ways the brand can help the LA music community rebuild, and more announcements are to be expected over the coming weeks.
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Prior to Fender, Guitar Center also launched an initiative to help replace instruments and gear, which is currently planned to run until 28 February 2025. Among the guitar community, artists including Sophie Lloyd and Metallica have also come forward to pledge support.
Lloyd is set to auction one of her Kiesel signature models, as well as donating money from her show at the Whiskey A Go Go on 16 January (which currently will go ahead as planned). As for the thrash metallers, Metallica have donated $500,000 via their All Within My Hands foundation to relief efforts.
For evacuation information and updates, head to Cal Fire. If you’ve lost an item of gear, you can submit your details to Fender now.
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Source: www.guitar-bass.net
