Live Nation launches ‘Crew Nation’ benefit fund

Artists and musicians are largely unable tour or perform beyond livestreaming due to current lockdown mandates, causing ripple effects throughout the industry. Those affected include set designers, audio technicians, security professionals, and many other behind-the-scenes roles. In order to help these often overlooked staff members, Live Nation has established a relief fund dubbed Crew Nation. Administered by the Music Forward Foundation, Crew Nation provides donations to “backstage staff that help bring concerts to life including: tour managers, production managers, riggers, sound engineers, backline techs, lighting directors/designers, special effects teams, carpenters, and more.” Potential recipients will be able to submit an application on the fund’s website, with eligibility based on an “objective determination of need.”

Live Nation has already donated $5 million to the fund, and will match the next $5 million in donations dollar for dollar. Publicized industry supporters include Coldplay, Justin Timberlake, Nick Cannon, and U2. Music fans are urged to donate or purchase merchandise to support. “Live music inspires millions around the world, but the concerts we all enjoy wouldn’t be possible without the countless crew members working behind the scenes,” the fund’s website reads. “As COVID-19 puts concerts on pause, we want to extend a helping hand to the touring and venue crews who depend on shows to make a living.”