The FireAid benefit concert will be remembered not only for bringing some of the biggest names in music together but also for the hope and unity it symbolized. In response to the devastating wildfires that tore through Los Angeles in early 2025, artists from across genres came together to raise funds and awareness for affected communities.
With such a monumental lineup, what was initially planned as a single event quickly expanded into two massive concerts, both streamed for free on major streaming platforms, YouTube, TikTok, and television networks. The venues? The newly opened Intuit Dome and the iconic Kia Forum.
FireAid Lineup: A Historic Gathering of Artists
The Intuit Dome featured an electrifying lineup, including Billie Eilish, Jelly Roll, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Lil Baby, Olivia Rodrigo, Rod Stewart, Stevie Wonder, and Earth, Wind & Fire.
Meanwhile, over at the Kia Forum, legends like Alanis Morissette, Green Day, Joni Mitchell, No Doubt, Pink, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stevie Nicks, and John Mayer rocked the stage.
Though fans were eagerly anticipating a first-ever live collaboration between John Mayer and Dave Matthews, Matthews had to pull out at the last moment due to a family emergency.
Highlights from the FireAid Concert
Rod Stewart: The Rock Icon Brings Classic Hits to Life
At 79 years old, Rod Stewart proved he still has the charisma and voice that made him a legend. Dressed in a zebra-striped jacket, he kicked off his set with the timeless hit “Forever Young”, a song that resonated deeply in light of the event’s cause.
“I lived here for 50 years, so Los Angeles is in my blood and in my soul and in my heart,” Stewart told the crowd.
His performance of “Maggie May” turned into a stadium-wide singalong, and his soulful rendition of Curtis Mayfield’s “People Get Ready” brought a moment of reflection.
Billie Eilish Joins Green Day for a Surprise Duet
Green Day’s set began with a stripped-down performance of “Last Night on Earth”, but the crowd went wild when Billie Eilish walked onto the stage, unexpectedly joining Billie Joe Armstrong for a duet.
The collaboration underscored the multi-generational appeal of the concert, showing how music connects past and present.
No Doubt Brings Energy & Nostalgia
No Doubt, who reunited at Coachella in 2024, delivered a high-energy performance, featuring their hit “Just a Girl”. Frontwoman Gwen Stefani had the crowd on their feet, leading a call-and-response moment before slowing things down with the emotional “Don’t Speak”.
The set wrapped up with the ska-infused classic “Spiderwebs”, reminding everyone why No Doubt remains a fan favorite.
John Mayer Honors Tom Petty
Stepping up after Dave Matthews’ last-minute cancellation, John Mayer took the stage solo, delivering an acoustic-driven set that showcased his bluesy, introspective style.
One of the standout moments came when he performed Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin’”.
“For me and so many others growing up, this was our first insight into the dream of living in California, and it is a dream,” Mayer said. “For those whose dreams have been broken, we will get together tonight and many other nights to make sure those dreams are repaired.”
Joni Mitchell’s Emotional “Both Sides Now”
At 81 years old, Joni Mitchell delivered one of the most poignant moments of the night. Sitting in a golden throne, dressed in a black velvet pantsuit, she sang a deeply emotional rendition of “Both Sides Now”.
Her performance left the audience spellbound, reinforcing why she remains one of the greatest songwriters of all time.
Pink’s Show-Stopping Zeppelin Cover
Pink, known for her powerful vocals and aerial stunts, decided to keep things simple but intense.
She delivered a gritty version of Janis Joplin’s “Bobby McGee”, but it was her show-stopping rendition of Led Zeppelin’s “Babe I’m Gonna Leave You” that had the crowd buzzing. Her vocals soared over the audience, proving why she’s one of the best live performers today.
Earth, Wind & Fire Brings the Funk
Few bands command the stage quite like Earth, Wind & Fire.
Their live set was a nonstop groove, featuring hits like “That’s the Way of the World”, “Shining Star”, and of course, “September”. With tight harmonies, a stellar brass section, and infectious energy, they had the entire venue dancing and singing along.
Anderson .Paak, Sheila E. & Dr. Dre Represent Los Angeles
Anderson .Paak, wearing a Koreatown hoodie, took the stage alongside Sheila E. and Dr. Dre, delivering a dynamic mix of funk, R&B, and hip-hop.
The crowd erupted when Dr. Dre walked out for “Still D.R.E.”, followed by an unexpected segue into Tupac Shakur’s “California Love”.
The set was a powerful tribute to the city of Los Angeles, celebrating both its musical history and resilience.
How to Donate to FireAid
While the concerts have ended, the fundraising continues. Those who want to support wildfire recovery efforts can donate directly at fireaidla.org.
A Night of Music, Hope & Unity
The FireAid benefit concerts were a testament to the power of music in bringing people together for a greater cause. With an incredible lineup, unforgettable performances, and a heartfelt mission, this event will go down in Los Angeles history.
Beyond the star-studded stage, the concerts served as a reminder of resilience, community, and the role artists play in shaping social change.
As we move forward, the hope is that FireAid’s impact extends beyond just one night, helping communities rebuild, recover, and dream again.
