By Tequila Mockingbird
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 10/27/25 – There are nights in Los Angeles that remind you why rock ’n’ roll was ever born — and “Events that benefit the community like Above Ground 4” was one of them. The Fonda Theatre pulsed with that particular brand of electricity that only comes when legends gather for a cause bigger than themselves. Billy Idol strutted out with that iconic snarl, Steve Stevens’ guitar licks slicing through the air like neon lightning, and Billy Morrison — the ringmaster of this beautiful circus — anchoring it all with a heart full of purpose.
This wasn’t just another show. It was a soul-charged ceremony for MusiCares, the lifeline of the music world — raising awareness and funds for mental health and suicide prevention. Morrison’s vision with Above Ground has always been clear: to take the conversation about mental health out of the shadows and bathe it in the light and sound of rock music. Because that’s where healing begins — in connection, in sound, in community.
The lineup was dazzling — a cavalcade of rock’s best and bravest. You could feel the camaraderie backstage and onstage alike, the sense that everyone knew why they were there. This was for the ones still fighting, the ones who made it through, and the ones we’ve lost along the way. You could taste the love in the air — the grit, the glamour, and the gratitude.
And yes, there were riffs that could have burned holes through the Hollywood skyline. But what lingered wasn’t just the music — it was the message. That it’s okay to not be okay. That asking for help isn’t weakness; it’s strength. That the music community takes care of its own. MusiCares has proven that again and again — helping artists recover, rebuild, and rise.
So, here’s to Billy Morrison, Rick Canny, the Schneider Rondan Organization, and every artist who gave their all on that stage. You didn’t just play music — you played medicine.
Check out Scott Dudelson’s stunning gallery of the night’s performances on Getty Images — it’s pure rock soul through the lens.
