Artist Spotlight: Musicians Who Give Back
Musicians continue to surprise us because whether they invite die-hard fans to duet or hold impromptu concerts, they’re always doing things for their fans. They also tend to be incredible generous and BRAVEN, the leader in portable bluetooth technology, wants to take time to acknowledge those that give back.
While there are plenty of musicians who find success through their families (like the Osbournes for instance), there are others whose history is fraught with difficult climbs to the top. That’s why we’re pleased to recognize them for their fine works both inside the studio and out.
Today we want to focus on a man that you probably won’t know but he’s one that made a huge impact on the music community in the past year. Herb Alpert is a 77-year-old Jazz artist most famous for his band “Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass” and being the “A” in A&M Records. He’s also known for handing out grants totalling millions of dollars at once.
In 2012 Alpert gave more than $5 million to the Harlem School of the Arts, a school that was struggling with debt. According to the New York Times, the school was able to “retire its debt, restore its endowment and create a scholarship program for needy students” because of him. And that’s not it.
In 2007 Alpert and his wife gave $30 million to UCLA to restructure the School of Arts. In 2008 he donated $15 million to the California Institute of Arts. How much has he given at this point? We’re glad you asked. The answer is “close to 100 million.”
Alpert certainly isn’t the only generous musical artist of the year. 22-year-old Taylor Swift has donated more than $4 million to a variety of causes. Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, and Bon Jovi raised more than $23 million for Hurricane Sandy victims. And the list continues. But none have more generous with their own money for Alpert and for that we commend him.
BRAVEN is loving this rags to riches story and we’re hoping you did too. Know of another charitable musician who’s worth recognizing? Please feel free to give suggestions on Facebook or Twitter!
