The Recording Academy, MusiCares Launch COVID-19 Relief Fund

The Recording Academy, along with its affiliated charitable foundation MusiCares, have established a COVID-19 Relief Fund to aid music industry members affected by the coronavirus outbreak and the resulting cancellation of several music concerts, tours and events.

MusiCares will administer the fund, which will be used to directly support those in the music community with the greatest need. Both the Recording Academy and MusiCares have contributed an initial donation of $1 million each, totaling $2 million. Additionally, all Recording Academy Chapters have committed to fundraising in their local communities. Further updates and announcements will be made in the coming days.

“Event cancellations are at unprecedented levels and the situation therefore requires an unprecedented response,” said Recording Academy Chair and interim CEO Harvey Mason Jr. “Many people in the industry are now in crisis, not knowing what the future holds or having to deal with dire commercial realities. We are asking the entire industry to stand with us to support the musicians, artists and professionals who are the bedrock and the future of our music community.

“It’s in times like these that many of us turn to music. Music can help us cope, and has the power to bring us together during a time when many of us might feel isolated. We encourage people everywhere to embrace the music industry which needs our help in these uncertain times.”

“The music industry is built on the work of musicians, artists, and music professionals,” adds MusiCares chair Steve Boom. “It is in times like these, that the industry needs to come together to support those who are struggling, particularly those who rely on touring incomes to survive. We know this fund will need to be significant. We will not be able to do it alone, and that’s why we are asking the entire music community including labels, streaming services, and anyone who is able to join us in this important effort. We’re all in when the good times roll, and it’s important that we’re all in when times are tough, too.”

Applicants should have at least five years of employment in the music industry, at least six commercially released recordings (singles), or at least six commercially or promotionally released music videos.

Applicants should also include the following information:

1. a detailed music industry background documentation (articles, liner notes, letters from employers, etc.)
2. a biography, resume or discography
3. documentation of loss of income (copy of your contract, flyers or links to event sites listing your involvement in the canceled events, letter/email from employer identifying cancelation)
4. a copy of lease or mortgage statement for mortgage consideration.

If you wish to support the Recording Academy’s efforts to assist music people in need, visit: grammy.com/MusiCares/CoronavirusReliefFund

If you are a member of the music industry in need of assistance, visit: musicares.org.  

• Author
• Recent Posts

Jessica Nicholson

Jessica Nicholson serves as the Managing Editor for MusicRow magazine. Her previous music journalism experience includes work with Country Weekly magazine and Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) magazine. She holds a BBA degree in Music Business and Marketing from Belmont University. She welcomes your feedback at jnicholson@musicrow.com.

Latest posts by Jessica Nicholson (see all)

• CMA Honors Robert Deaton With Chairman’s Award - December 4, 2020
• Nashville Symphony, Nashville Musicians Association Reach Agreement - December 4, 2020
• Zach Williams’ “Chain Breaker” Is Most-Added On ‘MusicRow’ CountryBreakout Radio Chart - December 4, 2020