In The Spotlight: Rock legends Def Leppard have released a cover of Ben E. King’s soul classic “Stand By Me,” with all proceeds benefiting FireAid‘s efforts to rebuild communities devastated by California’s recent wildfires.
Local Connection Emphasized: “Los Angeles and its surrounding area has always played a central role in Def Leppard’s career,” frontman Joe Elliott explains. “From it being where some of us are based and it being our US hub for rehearsals, to being the city where we played our first-ever American gig.”
Timely Release Noted: The song’s release follows the successful FireAid benefit concerts in Inglewood, which featured performances from Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pink, Stevie Nicks, Green Day, and a surprise Nirvana reunion among others. No Dave Matthews though.
Crisis Context Provided: The release responds to devastating wildfires, including the Palisades fire which has:
- Burned over 23,400 acres
- Forced 200,000+ evacuations
- Resulted in 29 fatalities
- Reached 98% containment
Community Impact Highlighted: “We feel blessed to be able to dedicate this song and give all the royalties to the amazing heroes in LA helping those affected by the fires,” Elliott adds. “No better song.”
