Helping Musicians And Audio Professionals During The COVID-19 Crisis

The lifestyle changes brought on by COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) have truly transformed the gig-based economy that many musicians and audio professionals work within. From venues being closed and tours being canceled to budgets being slashed and recording projects being put on hold, there certainly has been a lot of bad news for the people in our industry.

Despite it all, the events of the past few months have brought our community closer together than ever before. Whether you have a few extra bucks to spare or you're an artist, engineer, live crew member in need of support, we've put together a list of organizations that are here to help those that have been affected by the crisis.

US-Based Charities Helping Musicians, Engineers, & More

Live Nation Crew Nation Fund

Live Nation’s Crew Nation is a fund set up to support road crews who are dealing with lost work or canceled shows due to the virus. With an initial donation of $5 million, Live Nation will now match all other donations up to an additional $5 million. If your income is based on working tour runs, whether it’s as a stagehand, live sound engineer, lighting tech, and more, this fund is here to help relieve you.

Spotify COVID-19 Music Relief

Spotify has responded to the COVID-19 outbreak immediately with a fund to help struggling musicians, called the COVID-19 Music Relief project. Partnering with PRS Foundation, MusiCares, Help Musicians, and more, Spotify will match donations made up to $10 million. Designed to help musicians who have been financially affected by the outbreak and associated closures, you can apply for relief via the partner sites and find the information you need here.

Foundation For Contemporary Arts

Based out of New York, the Foundation For Contemporary Arts was designed to benefit contemporary artists. Those dealing with cancellations and financial hardship related to the virus outbreak can apply for $1000 grants.

Recording Academy MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund

Championed by the Recording Academy, the MusiCares foundation has responded to the recent downturn in music-related opportunities while venues close and tours cancel because of COVID-19. The Recording Academy contributed an initial $1 million and is open for others to donate to the fund. If you’re a music industry worker who can prove cancellation of bookings, the COVID-19 Relief Fund can help with basic living assistance with grants up to $1000.

Sweet Relief Musicians Fund

Sweet Relief Musicians Fund is here to respond to the crushing economic blow of COVID-19’s outbreak and how it is affecting those making a living in music. Sweet Relief provides a means to become a fundraiser in need of assistance. Providing a few details of who you are and your work in the music world, you can apply for assistance that will towards essential expenses like, food, lodging, medical assistance, and more.

Musicians Foundation Emergency Grant Program

The Musicians Foundation has recently launched an effort to relieve musicians affected by the pandemic as well. Grants can range from $500 all the way up to $3000 for those who need financial support in the midst of shutdowns because of COVID-19. You must provide proof of working for 5 years in the music industry to be eligible.

The Blues Foundation COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund

The Blues Foundation has advocated on behalf of musicians for 40 years, and in this time of great need, they’re here to help us. Full-time musicians whose income has been stifled by the pandemic can apply for immediate relief funding. Awarding money based on the needs and loss of income, you can apply for assistance here.