An event just as moving as it was impressive has just taken place, with stars across the globe coming together to spread a message of hope and love to the world during this COVID-19 pandemic. Lady Gaga announced in late March that the April 10th scheduled release date of her upcoming album Chromatica would be postponed due to the pandemic.
However, in its place something bigger than anyone expected took its place. In true Gaga style, One World: Together at Home was a one of a kind completely digital concert made in collaboration with Global Citizen to raise funds for the World Health Organisation (WHO). The likes of Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Elton John, Lizzo, Maluma and many more performed and sent messages of hope to the world from their homes.
Even though Beyoncé didn’t perform she appeared during the broadcast to send a heartfelt message to those around the world stating that “tonight we celebrate true heroes, those who are making the ultimate sacrifice to keep us all safe, fed and healthy” continuing on to thank all the “doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers who are away from their families taking care of ours, we continue to pray for your safety. To those in the food industry, delivery workers, mail carriers and sanitation employees who are working so we can be safe in our homes, we thank you for your selfless service”. Queen Bey’s message was one that was echoed by all the stars that appeared throughout the show.
The show itself consisted of a six hour exclusively streamed pre-show before the two hour main event which was televised in the US and around the world while being streamed online simultaneously. The show itself was made available on almost every platform one could think of including YouTube, Apple Music, Facebook and Instagram.
During the show Gaga told viewers “tonight is not a fundraiser so put your wallets away, It’s our love letter to the world”. As more than a week prior to the broadcast Gaga had announced 35 million dollars had already been raised through efforts targeted at getting donations from corporations and philanthropists. While after the show Global Citizen announced on Instagram they had reached a total of 127.9 million dollars.
Taylor Swifts performance of “Soon You’ll Get Better” towards the end of the show was an emotional reminder for people to stay hopeful. The broadcast reminded viewers that even during theses times of isolation we are not alone. The show closed with Celine Dion, Lang Lang, Lady Gaga, John Legend and Andrea Bocelli together performing a rendition of “The Prayer” reiterating a message of hope and love to all.
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