The one-year anniversary of the Los Angeles wildfires that devastated Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and surrounding neighborhoods on January 7, 2026, left thousands of homes destroyed, 31 lives lost, and millions reeling from the trauma and destruction.
A group of punk rock icons, including Mike Watt, Jane Wiedlin, and Annette Zilinskas, among others, have joined forces to release a benefit single titled “We Are LA” to support Sweet Relief in aiding the ongoing recovery efforts in L.A.
Adding to the lineup are Jonny Two Bags, Atom Willard, and Kimm Gardener, along with rising rockstars Eloise Wong and Katie Overbey. The single is available for purchase as a digital download or pre-order as a limited edition 12″ vinyl picture disc.
Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, the beneficiary of the single, offers assistance to musicians and music industry professionals in times of need, providing essential support like covering medical bills, housing costs, and other basic necessities. The establishment of a natural disaster relief fund specifically following the L.A. Fires aims to aid music industry professionals impacted by the wildfires.
California Governor Gavin Newsom reflected on the devastating impact of the fires, ordering flags to be flown at half-staff in remembrance of the event. The fires, including the Eaton blaze and those in the Palisades, totaled over 37,900 acres and were among the most destructive in California’s history.
As the community continues to recover from the aftermath of the wildfires, the release of “We Are LA” serves as a reminder of the resilience and unity exhibited by the music industry in supporting those in need.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.