
Dave Matthews | Photo by Moses, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Dave Matthews Cancels FireAid Performance Due to a ‘Critical Illness in the Family’
Dave Matthews Band had to call-off their performance at the FireAid benefit concert on Thursday, citing illness within the family.
“Due to a critical illness in the family, Dave Matthews is unfortunately unable to perform at the FireAid and MusiCares benefits this week,” the band said in an Instagram post.
During the show, Matthews was slated to perform with John Mayor live for the first time. Mayer responded in a statement of his own, noting, “sending all my love to Dave, who will be there in spirit with me.”
Earlier this month, Live Nation, AEG, and the Azoff Company announced FireAid — a set of two concerts taking place at the Intuit Dome and Kia Forum on January 30. The concerts include star-studded lineups, with performances from A-list stars like Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish and Finneas, Jelly Roll, Katy Perry, Joni Mitchell, No Doubt, and more.
The FireAid shows aim to help rebuild communities and support efforts to prevent future fire disasters throughout Southern California. Proceeds from the shows will go towards a 501(C)(3) created for this event, which will focus on rebuilding infrastructure, supporting displaced families, and advancing fire prevention technologies and strategies to ensure Los Angeles is more prepared for fire emergencies.
Donations can be made directly to FireAid here.
Los Angeles is currently experiencing the most destructive fire in the city’s history. According to Cal Fire, the Palisades Fire has burned 23,448 acres of land since it began on January 7 and is currently 97% contained, while the Eaton Fire has burned 14,021 acres since it broke out the same date and is currently 99% contained. The total death toll from the Los Angeles-area wildfires has climbed to 29, authorities said.