Southern California’s Dance Music Community Rallies for Wildfire Relief Efforts

Wildfires ignited in Los Angeles County on January 7 have intensified over the last two days. The most significant blazes, the Palisades and Eaton fires, have consumed 17,234 and 10,600 acres, respectively, fueled by Santa Ana winds, with both fires currently at 0% containment. Firefighters are actively battling these fires along with four others in the area: Hurst, Sunset, Lidia, and Kenneth.

According to CalFire, there have been five reported fatalities and over 1,000 structures have been lost. Evacuation orders affect over 179,000 residents as the flames approach neighborhoods, including Santa Monica and Hollywood.

Various organizations are mobilizing to provide assistance to those displaced by the fires. Artists, promoters, and members of the dance music community are stepping up to support their fellow citizens in need.

Dack Janiels delivered 40oz Cult shirts and hoodies to a Direct Relief drop-off site before evacuating his Hollywood home. Cloonee announced a merchandise fundraiser launching tomorrow, with 100% of profits directed to three trusted organizations: a fire department, a human charity, and an animal shelter. SLANDER revealed plans for a charity event aimed at supporting the LA community, with more details forthcoming.

Insomniac has responded by sharing support resources and closing all their clubs in Los Angeles for the weekend. Furthermore, they are postponing ticket sales for Beyond Wonderland SoCal, originally scheduled to start on Friday. Various brands, including Brownies & Lemonade, IHeartRaves, Vibee, Create Music Group, and XXXDCD, have all shared contact information for non-profits and organizations aiding those affected by the fires.

Sound Nightclub intends to remain operational but is offering a no-questions-asked refund for events throughout January to alleviate any additional stress for ticket holders. Emo Nite plans to donate a portion of ticket sales to local relief funds providing essential aid. A GoFundMe has been initiated for Darcy Michero, the Director of Events and Fundraising Programs at End Overdose, whose family lost their home in the Eaton Fire.

Local underground promoters—including 6AM Group, Synthetik Minds, and Respect—have canceled or postponed events this weekend to allocate resources to the LAFD and LAPD. The LA Raver and Rave Haven are collaborating to collect donations for the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighters Fund, assisting firefighters and their families during crises.

Support has also emerged from outside Los Angeles. San Diego’s Firehouse will donatea portion of all proceeds this weekend to the LA Fire Department. Underground promoters Duck Duck Roar and Afternoon Umbrella Friends are collecting essential items in San Diego to transport to Los Angeles. Additionally, the clothing brand Neo4ic will donate all profits from the first five days of sales of their upcoming shirt drop to the LA Fire Department.

Support those in need by contributing to the following organizations:

• LAFD Foundation – This foundation supports the Los Angeles Fire Department with vital equipment and funds to save lives and protect communities while they battle the fires.
• SLAC Foundation – The South LA Community Foundation empowers local communities by providing free groceries, water, and masks at their activated location. They have also opened safe spaces at two locations on Jefferson St. and MLK Jr Blvd.
• Direct Relief – This California-based organization focuses on disaster relief and medical assistance, ensuring that donations directly support individuals affected by the fires.
• LA County Food Bank – This 501(c)(3) provides essential food assistance throughout Los Angeles County, crucial in the wake of wildfires and other disasters.
• MusiCares – The official charity of the Recording Academy offers crisis relief, preventive care, and recovery resources to individuals in the music profession, providing both short-term and long-term disaster relief.

EDM Identity has compiled a list of evacuation centers, donation locations, meal services, and animal shelters. This article will be updated with further information as it becomes available.