Last November marked ten years of remarkable accomplishments for Music For Relief, one of the most dedicated forces in disaster relief and sustainable energy. Founded by Linkin Park in 2005, fans and individuals have come together with Music For Relief in raising over $7 million for countries around the world in need of a helping hand- such as Hurricane Katrina in the United States, China’s Wenchuan earthquake, a cholera outbreak in Zimbabwe, earthquakes in Haiti and Japan in 2010, and Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines.
ReliefLIVE was an immense milestone, a celebration carefully created and organized by Whitney Showler and Kimberly Hurtarte in honor of each heart-felt mission, founders Linkin Park and supporters; honored that night, was Steve Aoki, one of Music For Relief’s most dedicated supporters and influence.
The night brought together both fans and fellow artists. A green carpet welcomed all to LA River Studios, photographers snapping your photo in front a backdrop outside. You were welcomed in to a warm, fun atmosphere- catering had great appetizers and entrees ready with drinks, a walk further in bringing you to an auction table with unique items. Drawn and written in chalk on the wall nearby were package-opportunities you could bid on, a turn away from that temptation bringing you to a live painting by Rob Prior.
Using both brushes and fingertips, earbuds in ear to his own muse, three large canvases set up; Prior worked on three paintings right in front of your eyes. One depicted Linkin Park and the Soldier, another was a near-haunting image of Aoki, the third of a beautiful woman swinging under and immense moon. Rob Bourdon himself bid on the Soldier, his bid benefitting Music For Relief along with the other paintings.
You walk past the paintings once they’re done, white lounging couches along one side of the spacious studio, attendees all comfortably seated as they chatted, turning to your left to look at the stage.
It was there you got see Mark Hoppus start the celebration, Whitney and Kimberly congratulated, Aoki honored and thanked, auction winners brought up to celebrate winning unique experiences while raising funds that very same night. You swayed and ebbed along to the music as Conner Youngblood and Snoh Aalegra took over, DJ Jeremiah Red from KROQ impressing you with his own touches to songs you loved.
The most fun you had, though, was when Linkin Park came up on stage. You couldn’t help but smile and laugh when Mark Hoppus came in as Phoenix stepped off the stage, jokes thrown around for a new bassist. You felt young again seeing Linkin Park and a part of Blink 182 together. Adrian Young from No Doubt came in, adding to the force that is Rob Bourdon, his energy and tongue antics infectious and fun. You were also able to say you saw Page Hamilton perform with Linkin Park that special night.
The night ended for you long after they stepped off stage, Chester having sat down on the stage to greet and thank all of you. You got to say hi to the others as they all hung around with guests, everyone in that studio so relaxed and enjoying it all.
You left proud to have been part of such an important night for Music For Relief and so many others.
Visit musicforrelief.org to donate and learn more information on their mission.
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