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Will the 2025 Grammys Be Affected by the Los Angeles Wildfires?

Both the Academy and leading record labels have shared their plans and responses

01/14/2025 , 3:54 pm

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has postponed the announcement of this year’s Oscar nominees twice so far. The nominations are now expected to be revealed on January 23. Despite the ongoing wildfires devastating Los Angeles, the Oscar ceremony is still scheduled to take place on March 2. This tragedy has had a major impact on the city, disrupting many of its usual events.

“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. This city is our home, and we mourn the loss of life and destruction that have come to it in recent days,” wrote Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy and MusiCares.

The Grammy Academy also released a statement confirming that the 67th Grammy Awards will go ahead as planned. “In close coordination with local authorities to ensure public safety and responsible use of area resources, the 67th GRAMMY Awards telecast on CBS on February 2nd will proceed as planned.”

Our hearts are with everyone impacted by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. The Recording Academy and @MusiCares have pledged $1 million through the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort to support music professionals in need. This initiative is here to provide critical assistance… pic.twitter.com/A1SxlIr8D0

— Recording Academy / GRAMMYs (@RecordingAcad) January 10, 2025

However, according to the statement, this year’s event will carry a renewed purpose. Raising additional funds for wildfire relief efforts and recognizing the bravery and dedication of first responders who risk their lives to protect others.

“In challenging times, music has the power to heal, comfort, and unite like nothing else. The GRAMMYs will not only honor the artistry and achievements of our music community but also serve as a platform to amplify the spirit of resilience that defines this great city of Los Angeles,” said the Recording Academy in a statement.

A similar approach was taken by the LOS40 Music Awards 2024, which, following the tragedy in Valencia, shifted its focus at the last minute and managed to raise a significant amount of money to support those affected by the DANA disaster.

Record Labels Adjust Plans Amid Los Angeles Wildfires

While the Academy moves forward with its plans for the Grammy Awards, record labels are making changes in response to the ongoing crisis. After confirming that the Grammys will still take place on February 2 despite the wildfires, Universal Music Group announced it will cancel all events and broadcasts tied to the awards, including artist showcases and the after-party. The budget for these events will instead go toward helping those affected by the fires.

Warner Music Group also shared with Billboard that it has canceled its Grammy Week party. They will redirect those funds to wildfire relief and aid for those impacted by the destruction. The company had already pledged a $1 million donation last weekend and continues to support employees who were forced to evacuate.

Our hearts are with LA ❤️

We’ve committed an initial $1 million donation through the WMG / Blavatnik Family Foundation Social Justice Fund to support wildfire relief efforts in California.

Read more: https://t.co/PGlr6YciYA pic.twitter.com/4ILrgrzLux

— Warner Music Group (@warnermusic) January 12, 2025

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