André 3000 Contributes Unreleased Song to Aid Artists Affected by Los Angeles Wildfires
André 3000, widely regarded as one of the most innovative figures in hip-hop, has lent his talents to a meaningful cause. The OutKast icon contributed a previously unreleased song to a new 98-track benefit compilation album, Staying: Leaving Records Aid to Artists Impacted By The Los Angeles Wildfires, which was released on January 20 through Leaving Records.
The album aims to support artists and communities impacted by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. In addition to André 3000, the compilation features contributions from other notable artists such as Reggie Watts and Brijean.
A Compilation With Purpose
In a statement, Leaving Records’ Emmett Shoemaker explained the heartfelt motivation behind the project:
“In the spirit of doing what we can, and doing what we do best, Leaving has pulled out all the proverbial stops to release a benefit compilation consisting of affiliated artists and supporters far and wide (many of whom have indeed lost everything),” Shoemaker said.
He detailed that 50% of the proceeds will be “meticulously, manually allocated to Los Angeles artists and music colleagues in need, as equitably as possible.” This will be based on existing aid spreadsheets and an internal list of affected individuals within the music community. The remaining 50% will go to displaced Black families and communities impacted by the fires.
Shoemaker emphasized that the funds will not go through third-party organizations but will instead be directly distributed to those in need.
André 3000’s Rare Contribution
Known for his reclusive nature and sporadic releases, André 3000’s contribution is a rare and special offering for fans and music lovers alike. Though details about the track remain under wraps, its inclusion adds significant weight to the compilation and reinforces the legendary artist’s support for important causes.
A Broader Impact
The album is available for purchase on Bandcamp, providing fans with a way to enjoy diverse music while contributing to a meaningful effort. With genres and sounds spanning across the compilation, it reflects the resilience and creativity of the artists coming together to support their community.
Looking Back on OutKast
Meanwhile, fans continue to wonder about the possibility of new music from André 3000 and his OutKast partner, Big Boi. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, André admitted he couldn’t recall the last time he and Big Boi worked together in the studio, suggesting it might have been during the recording of Stankonia (2000) or Speakerboxxx/The Love Below (2003).
“Even Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, they were actually two separate albums that we put together at the last minute,” André explained, underscoring the duo’s long hiatus from collaborative recording.
André 3000’s involvement in Staying not only highlights his enduring artistry but also reflects his commitment to using music for a greater purpose. The compilation offers a unique blend of tracks, showcasing the resilience of the creative community and providing much-needed aid to those affected by the Los Angeles wildfires.
Fans can purchase the album now on Bandcamp to enjoy the music and support this worthy cause.
