Stars Unite at Altadena Benefit Concert, Honoring Loss and Embracing Hope

A concert titled “A Concert for Altadena” was held on January 7 to commemorate the anniversary of the Eaton fire. The event aimed to honor those affected and raise funds for the Altadena Builds Back Foundation. Notable local artists, including the folk-rock group Dawes, performed to support the community’s recovery.

Community Resilience and Healing

Liz Wilson, a local resident, described the aftermath of the Eaton fire as a profound loss for not just individuals but the entire community. She emphasized the importance of reconnecting and supporting one another in light of ongoing rebuilding efforts.

Kevin Lyman, an Altadena resident and organizer of the concert, shared his experience of being displaced for four months. He expressed optimism about the progress in rebuilding, noting the visible return of construction workers and materials, but acknowledged the challenges that remained.

Memorable Performances

• Ozomatli opened the night with a vibrant performance.
• Art Alexakis from Everclear candidly spoke about his own experience after the fire.
• The headline act Dawes, directly impacted by the Eaton fire, led the evening’s performances.
• Other notable artists included Brad Paisley, Aloe Blacc, and Jenny Lewis.

Throughout the night, the performances resonated with the challenges faced by the community. Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes reflected on the importance of maintaining connections despite adversity, singing, “May all your favorite bands stay together.”

Activism and Honest Conversations

The event also featured local activism, with Heavenly Hughes leading a chant of “Altadena’s not for sale.” John C. Reilly hosted the concert and emphasized the community’s resilience, also criticizing the role of utility companies in the fire’s origins.

Concertgoers, including Travis Cooper, shared personal connections to the theme of loss and community support. Cooper’s family had experienced their own devastating fire, making him particularly empathetic towards the Altadena community’s struggles.

Facing the Future

This concert not only served as a remembrance but also as a powerful platform for healing. Jeffrey Paradise, a local musician who lost his home in a related fire, highlighted the mixed emotions surrounding the recovery journey.

The spirit of togetherness was palpable, as artists and community members aimed to uplift each other while managing the complex feelings tied to their experiences. Such events not only acknowledge the past but pave the way for a hopeful and revitalized future.