Two young artists show they can more than hold their own at Fire Aid

The good and the bad

And it's one more day up in the canyon
And it's one more night in Hollywood
It's been so long since I've seen the ocean
I guess I should

After three watchings I finally made it through all five-plus hours of Fire Aid. The concert, held in two Los Angeles venues was an event to raise money for those hurt by the fires in the area.

There was a wide array of artists representing the many genres of music. There was more than a little something for everyone.

Let’s begin with the artists from the oldies/classic rock era.

It’s always great to see Joni Mitchell. She has been through so many major health issues that it is amazing to see her on a stage anytime. While it’s moving to see her sing even one song, especially “Both Sides Now”, it’s a little tough to watch, especially when you compare this to the vibrant Joni of the 1970s.

Two of her compadres followed. First, Stephen Stills was joined by guitarist Mike Campbell for the classic Buffalo Springfield tune, “For What It’s Worth.” Again, while it’s great to see someone who has made so much classic music still performing, age and hearing loss have taken a toll on Stills's voice. However, his guitar work has always been underrated and his solos showed he’s still a top-notch player.

He was then joined by his long-time musical partner, Graham Nash. They performed another classic, “Teach Your Children.” Two years ago, I saw Nash perform a somewhat acoustic concert. His voice that night was close to what it was during his Hollies and Crosby, Stills & Nash heydey. That's why it was so surprising to me that he had so much trouble hitting those upper-level notes. Maybe age has finally at least somewhat caught up to him at age eighty-three.

Another classic rocker performing was Rod Stewart. He sang three well-known tunes from his catalog, “Forever Young”, “Maggie May” and “People Get Ready.” Like the others, he had problems with his voice cracking.

I realize this is expected from singers in this age range, but it’s shocking to see it one after the other.

Now on to the good—and there was plenty of that. Nice performances by the Red Hot Chill Peppers and The Black Crowes. John Mayer did an acoustic set that showed why he’s one of the best guitarists in the world. Stevie Wonder, Sting and Flea combining on “Higher Ground” was special. I loved the tribute to Nirvana. And Lady Gaga closing the concert was moving.

Talking about moving, the speech by Billy Crystal, who lost his home in the fire, brought you close to tears. If that wasn't enough, the video interviews with people from Altadena and the Pacific Palisades who lost homes and or businesses put a real face on those whose lives were changed forever by the fire.

For me, the biggest highlights of the night were the performances of two Los Angeles natives in their early twenties.

It seems Billie Eilish has been around forever. It’s hard to believe she’s been on the music scene for nearly a decade. It’s also hard to believe that she’s only twenty-three years old. She began the night with a set along with her band. She came back later with an acoustic set that featured her brother Finneas on guitar. In her young career, Eilish has already won nine Grammys. She is going to make important music long after we baby boomers are gone.

Gracie Abrams hasn’t been around quite as long as Billie Eilish, but you could tell by the screams from her young fans as she was introduced that she has already made a huge impact. Her two-song set was highlighted by a heartfelt cover of “A Long December”, by the Counting Crows. On a night that featured many songs about L.A., this was the best. She is currently on a year-plus-long tour. It began in the U.S. in mid-sized venues. When she returns from Europe this summer, you can find her filling large arenas. Keep an eye on Gracie Abrams. She has a chance to be the next big thing.

The two takeaways from Fire Aid:

It raised a lot of money for people in desperate need. It also showcased some special young artists proving the future of popular music is in good hands. Both are great things.

And it's one more day up in the canyons
And it's one more night in Hollywood
If you think you might come to California
I think you should