Live Nation has launched a new charity fund called Crew Nation to support the live industry’s workers that have been impacted by the Covid-19 crisis.
The live entertainment giant, which owns Ticketmaster, is contributing an initial $5m (£4m/€4.6m) to the fund to help support concert crews globally. It will then match the next $5m pledged by artists, fans and employees.
Crew Nation will support eligible workers including tour managers, production managers, riggers, sound engineers, backline techs, lighting directors/designers, special effects teams, carpenters, and more.
Live Nation will be contacting crew members whose income has already been hit as a result of the cancellation or rescheduling of a Live Nation gig.
In a statement, the charitable fund said: “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. 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. Crew Nation was created to do just that.
Live shows are not possible without our crew members behind the scenes. We are helping those workers who need it the most by announcing the #CrewNation Fund. We are donating $10 million: $5M upfront + matching the next $5M. Visit https://t.co/CvaQvd3shg to donate or buy merch now pic.twitter.com/Y3dQjcf40u
— Live Nation (@LiveNation) March 31, 2020
“Crew members are the backbone of the live music industry, and we hope you’ll join us in supporting them through this temporary intermission until we can once again unite millions around the world through the power of live music. Thanks for your support, and we look forward to seeing you at a show again soon.”
Music Forward Foundation, which champions inclusivity in the industry, will be selecting recipients based on an objective determination of need. Employees of Live Nation will not be eligible to receive funding.
In addition, Live Nation has also revealed plans to launch a livestream concert programme as Covid-19 has brought the live experience to a standstill.
The list features livestreams on social media sites like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, as well as video streaming platforms Twitch and YouTube.
“Just because we’re keeping our distance doesn’t mean the music has to stop,” Live Nation said on its website. “Join us daily for live streams from around the globe — follow artists live from their homes as they share music, stories, and more.”
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