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Event Recap: The Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) x Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis “ReStore & ReBuild” LA fundraiser

BMAC
This event served as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of music and community.

On the evening of January 29th, the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) and legendary producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis hosted an intimate fundraiser at Delilah in Los Angeles, titled “ReStore & ReBuild.” The event was a powerful demonstration of the music industry’s commitment to supporting Black music talents and providing relief to communities affected by the devastating Altadena (Eaton) Fire.

Many of the events typically scheduled for Grammy Week in Los Angeles were unfortunately canceled this year. However, the ReStore & ReBuild fundraiser was intentionally repurposed, not canceled. This was in order to spotlight a cause that is both timely and crucial. The cause being: supporting the Black music community and those affected by the recent fires.

The night’s spotlight was on the fundraiser, which aimed to raise crucial funds for the BMAC LA Fire Relief Fund. This fund, which directly benefits the residents and small businesses impacted by the fires, is a continuation of BMAC’s five years of economic empowerment efforts. As part of their ongoing mission to drive systemic change and racial equity in the music industry, BMAC worked alongside partners like ASCAP, Atlantic Records, Wasserman Foundation, and Amazon Music Rotation to ensure this event would make an impact that’s felt.

A key highlight of the evening was the presentation of the annual Music Maker Grants. These grants are awarded to emerging Black music talent. This serves as a testament to BMAC’s dedication to uplifting new voices in the industry. Furthermore, the recipients were selected from a nationwide search and recognized for their potential to create lasting change in music.

Raising funds and raising spirits

As Prophet, a key figure involved in the event and BMAC, pointed out, “The local vendors, the waitstaff, the bartenders, the musicians—many of these individuals rely on events like this to support themselves during this time. They need these resources.” This sentiment emphasized the broader impact of the event.

Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis have long been celebrated for their contributions to the music industry. That evening, they further solidified their roles as champions of Black talent and creators of opportunities with their involvement. Their dedication to fostering new voices and providing support to underrepresented communities was evident throughout the evening.

Both legends addressed the crowd with heartfelt speeches that resonated deeply. Jimmy Jam, in particular, emphasized the importance of unity during times of adversity. “I want to welcome everyone to this annual event. We think it’s really important that we’re rooted in togetherness,” he said. “A lot of parties were canceled for good reasons, but we believe what we’re doing here is important.”

Reflecting on purpose

He continued with a reflection on the legacy of the greats who paved the way for today’s artists. “When we begin to lose some of the greats, like Quincy Jones [last year], we realize that those of us who are still here need to spread our wings a little bit wider and flap them a little harder. We need to keep things sane, and music is the thing that will do that. Music is the divine art. Any time you want to raise money and raise spirits, music is the thing that makes that happen.”

In addition, the evening wasn’t just about raising funds. It was about lifting spirits and bringing people together, particularly after the devastation of the fires. As Jimmy Jam eloquently put it, “A lot of us haven’t been in one place since the fires. But tonight we can give the tools to the young people who are going to make the next soundtrack, the next We Are The World. The next optimistic anthem.”

Hip-Hop Icons Graced The Stage

A special highlight of the evening was the appearance of Hip-Hop icons Chuck D and Flavor Flav of Public Enemy. They were honored for their ongoing contributions to music and activism. Furthermore, soul icons Anthony Hamilton and Andra Day also graced the stage with powerful sets. Lastly, adding to the night’s magic was a live tribute from 1500 or Nothin’.

Moreover, the funds raised at the event will be dispersed immediately to provide aid to those still recovering from the fires. This continues BMAC’s work in advancing racial justice and supporting Black communities. The evening of music, generosity, and unity is just one more chapter in BMAC’s ongoing mission to create access, equity, and opportunity for Black artists and industry professionals.

For more information or to donate, visit the BMAC LA Fire Relief Fund.

Read more stories on Remixd Magazine.

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