ABOVE GROUND BENEFIT 4
Returns to The Fonda Theatre
October 8th, 2025 by Amberlee Meyer
Now in its fourth iteration, the Above Ground benefit returns to The Fonda Theatre in Hollywood on October 26th.
All proceeds will go to MusiCares, the longstanding charity aimed to raise awareness and funds for mental health and suicide prevention, along with providing resources and support to the music industry.
Founders Dave Navarro (Jane’s Addiction guitarist), Billy Morrison (Billy Idol guitarist), and Rick Canny (artist management) have a massive lineup for this year’s star-studded musical showcase, including the live performances of two legendary, self-titled, debut albums performed in their entirety: “New York Dolls” and “The Cars.”
Photo by Debi Del Grande
The New York Dolls, a gritty, New York City five piece, often did it like no one else before them.
Strutting the stage in heels, feather boas, glitter and glam, the band caught the ear of legendary producer Todd Rundgren, who produced the debut album.
The dolls are the predominant roots the punk and glam punk movements, even the Sex Pistols and David Bowie give credit to the Dolls style and sound. But the list of bands they have influenced also includes Morrissey, Blondie, The Clash, The Cramps, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, Billy Idol, The Replacements, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, and a few hundred more.
Hailing from Boston, The Cars were at the forefront of the emerging new wave scene. Mixing synthesizers, pop, and rock with blended shades of art rock, their experimental sound brought about songs “Just What I Needed,” “My Best Friend’s Girl,” “You Might Think,” “Moving in Stereo,” and “Bye Bye Love” which took radio stations by storm in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s.
Gracing the stage for this star-studded-performance are Billy Idol and his longtime guitar player Steve Stevens, vocalist Corey Taylor of the heavy metal band Slipknot, and drummer extraordinaire Josh Freese (who is currently drumming for Nine Inch Nails, but has served in Orange County’s The Vandals, DEVO, A Perfect Circle, and Foo Fighters).
Also included are rock /electronic artist Moby, The Cars’ lead guitarist Elliot Easton, and Extreme guitarist Nuno Bettencourt. Additional special guests will appear as well.
Photo by Corona Chronicles
The extra special finale is Los Angeles’ own Cypress Hill, the hip hop masters behind “Insane in the Brain.”
This show is a must go, don’t miss situation!
TO FOLLOW
TICKETS TICKETS TICKETS
TO SUPPORT
SID 251008 | TRACI TURNER | EDITOR
