As the music industry and its live events sector continues to be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Country Music Association (CMA) and its philanthropic arm, the CMA Foundation, have announced a $1 million pledge to the COVID-19 Relief Fund established by The Recording Academy® and MusiCares®. The funds will be used to provide support to those in the music industry whose employment has been impacted by the effects of the virus and will specifically assist in covering mortgage and rent costs to help keep out-of-work industry professionals in their homes.
"We have heard firsthand the many ways the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted not only our CMA members but the music industry at large," says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. "Our goal is to be a resource and support system for those in the music business who are currently struggling, and we're incredibly grateful for MusiCares' commitment to serve music industry professionals, especially right now. Our business does not exist without these hardworking individuals who make up the touring industry as well as our artists, songwriters and musicians, and we hope our pledge can provide a bit of comfort during these troubling times." "As committed as the CMA Foundation is to ensuring that every child has access to a high-quality music education, the CMA Foundation would not be able to operate without the support of the music industry," says Tiffany Kerns, CMA Foundation Executive Director and CMA Vice President, Community Outreach. "Now more than ever, the music industry needs our support and we seek to help those that have supported the CMA Foundation with their time, talent and resources for so many years."Videos