Sony Music Entertainment Australia has announced that a new total of $520,000 has now been raised from proceeds from the sale of the Artists Unite for Fire Fight: Concert for National Bushfire Relief charity album.
Released in March following the historic concert on February 16 at ANZ Stadium, Sydney, the 23-track album debuted at #1 and spent 14 weeks in the Top 40 of the ARIA Albums chart and features unique live recordings from every artist who performed at Fire Fight.
Along with the generosity of the Australian public, the success of the charity album in raising such a significant amount is as a result of far-reaching support. Physical retail partners JB Hi-Fi and Sanity donated their profits from sale of the album, Apple donated its iTunes proceeds from the album, and JB Hi-Fi have purchased the remaining limited amount of stock on hand. This is in addition to the performing artists and songwriters who donated their royalties from album sales, and the many partners who advertised, manufactured and distributed the album on a gratis basis.
All proceeds from the sale of the album are being donated through Sony Foundation Australia to fund projects benefiting young Australians in bushfire affected communities. Sony Foundation Australia are continuing to receive proposals and engage with bushfire affected communities and youth organisations for programs to further support young Australians with their recovery, ongoing wellbeing and community connectedness.
To mark this achievement, Geoff Jones (CEO, TEG), Tim McGregor (Managing Director, TEG Live) and Sandra Rouse (CFO, TEG), were recognised with special #1 awards by Sony Music in recognition of their invaluable efforts in not only organising and promoting the concert, but in making the subsequent album so successful.
“It is an incredible milestone to have now exceeded half a million dollars for people in communities who continue to rebuild even in these difficult times,” said Denis Handlin, chairman and CEO of Sony Music Entertainment Australia and New Zealand. “Our heartfelt thanks again go to everyone involved, especially the artists and the Australian public who have made this album a resounding success. Our thanks also go to Geoff Jones, Paul Dainty and our friends at TEG, who without them, there would have been no concert. We also would not have been able to reach this significant amount of funds raised for those in need without the support of all our valued partners.”
Amy Shark, who performed at the concert and presented the TEG team with their awards, said: “It was such an honour to perform alongside so many amazing artists at the unique event. To see the outpouring of love and support from people across the country in connection with the concert and album, truly personifies the Australian spirit. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this outstanding cause.”
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Top Photo: [L to R] Denis Handlin, chairman & CEO, Australia & New Zealand, Sony Music Entertainment with Amy Shark and Geoff Jones – CEO, TEG