On a night intended to corral music icons for an exceptional cause, the FireAid benefit concert in Inglewood, California, became a slice of extraterrestrial history. With 27 iconic acts performing across the Kia Forum and Intuit Dome, Thursday night served up a masterclass in star-studded surprises, the magic of collaboration, and powerful moments that resonated far beyond the music.
It was a benefit for the wildfire victims and reconstruction efforts in Los Angeles. But what came out of the FireAid benefit event was something different.
The FireAid night’s jewel? A surprise reprisal by surviving Nirvana members Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and touring guitarist Pat Smear to craft an unforgettable piece of rock history! For one night, the trio was collectively known as “Hervana” and was joined by a few mighty female vocalists for a one-off performance.
The set of FireAid kicked off with a blistering “Breed,” Sonic Youth’s Kim Gordon delivering a searing take on “School,” and Joan Jett delivering a fire-breathing “Territorial Pissings.” Then, in a warm surprise, Grohl’s 18-year-old daughter Violet closed out the set with an ethereal rendition of “All Apologies.” The reunion, completely unannounced, left the crowd at the Kia Forum reeling as they pieced together the monumental moment in real time.
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The surprises didn’t end there. Billie Eilish joined Green Day for a one-time “Billie meets Billie Joe” duet on “Last Night on Earth.” Later, at the Intuit Dome, she performed a solo set with her brother, Finneas. Meanwhile, Dr. Dre, Anderson Paak, and the legendary Sheila E. brought the house down with “Still D.R.E.” and “California Love.
They invited Stephen Stills and Mike Campbell to trade vocals on a stirring version of Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth.” Stills remained onstage when Graham Nash came out to drive home the poignant “Teach Your Children,” bringing back the magic of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.
And the surprises don’t stop! The concert was a gift that keeps giving!
John Fogerty came to join The Black Crowes for a soaring “Have You Ever Seen the Rain.
Slash added his signature edge to a Led Zeppelin cover with The Black Crowes.
Jelly Roll made room for Travis Barker to bring a hot take on Bob Seger’s “Hollywood Nights.”
Sting and Stevie Wonder combined for energetic turns on “Superstition” and “Higher Ground,” with Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Flea adding his signature bass.
The pre-announced lineup also had some spine-tingling moments. Lady Gaga debuted with the poignant one-night-only ballad “All I Need Is Time,” and P!nk paid homage to rock icons Led Zeppelin and Janis Joplin. Joni Mitchell left a few dry eyes with her hauntingly beautiful “Both Sides Now.
Beyond being a benefit concert, the FireAid benefit was a testament to how music could galvanize people toward a cause. Proceeds from the event will support wildfire victims and rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles, with donations continuing through fireaidla.org.
If you missed the magic, the full live stream of the FireAid benefit is available on YouTube and other platforms—a must-watch for anyone who wants to relive an extraordinary night of music with heart.
From unexpected reunions to unforgettable collaborations, FireAid 2025 proves that music has the power to heal, unite, and inspire as fiercely as ever.
