Following the success of the 2020 Asia Rising Forever benefit livestream last May, which drew 8.5 million viewers and trended No.1 on YouTube and Twitter, 88rising continues its longstanding commitment to amplifying Asian voices with the upcoming benefit concert on Thursday at 9am.
Held to mark Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPIHM), the "Asia Rising Together: Benefit Concert" is a virtual variety concert mixing music and cultural art and community that will see participation from artists around the world.
The line-up includes Atarashii Gakko!, Audrey Mika, Audrey Nuna, Bizzy, Guapdad 4000, Jae (of Day6), KOAD, Luna Li, mxmtoon, Niki, Seori, Tiger JK, Yoonmirae and guest appearances by RZA, Dumbfoundead, Ocean Vuong, and a special introduction by CL.
Throughout the show, the audience will witness a series of intimate performances, punctuated by moments of poetry, meditation, and a special surprise or two.
"This is a really unique livestream centred around family and culture," says Audrey Mika, "I filmed part of my set with my mom and sister and being able to share our Japanese roots on this platform is really special to me. I hope this shows everyone you can chase your dreams, stay true to yourself, and be proud of who you are in the process."
In tandem with these musical performances, the event will highlight artist stories and identity through a variety of programming while spotlighting AAPI businesses and organisations across industries.
"88rising is committed to using music and our platforms to elevate AAPI voices, to raise awareness for issues affecting our AAPI community and to denounce anti-Asian hate," said Sean Miyashiro, the CEO and founder of the leading pan-Asian music company. "We are proud to bring this benefit concert along with our many other AAPI-focused initiatives to the forefront so that everyone can have a hand in making the world a more peaceful place." Donations from the stream will support the Asian Mental Health Collective, which has created a supportive and empathetic community; collaborations with mental health professionals and organisations; and celebrate mental health stories as Asians.
AAPI Heritage Month is a month-long celebration which recognises the contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islanders.
The fundraising concert will be streamed live on 88rising's Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and SiriusXM channel.
Luna Li. photos courtesy of 88rising's YouTube
Niki. Photo: Mr. iozo
