Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga Covers “California Dreamin'” For LA Fire Victims

The horrific flames that ravaged the city in January, killing 29 people and displacing hundreds of thousands more, are still causing pain in Los Angeles. Some questioned whether the Grammys should go as scheduled in light of the significant loss. However, Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of the Recording Academy, saw an opportunity to change things. The 67th Annual Grammy Awards demonstrated that music can be a potent healing force by focusing on wildfire relief and support for the community rather than lavish parties.

It was one of the most moving moments of the evening when Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars approached the stage to pay tribute to the people of Los Angeles.

Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars Deliver a Powerful Tribute

Given that Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars have already worked together, their relationship is undeniable. They have received two Grammy nominations for their most recent collaboration, “Die With a Smile,” including Song of the Year and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. But they came together at the Crypto.com Arena for something even more important on Sunday night (February 2).

The iconic duo rendered a heartfelt duet of The Mamas and Papas’ “California Dreamin’,” giving a sincere tribute to the city:

“I’d be safe and warm / If I was in L.A.”

While there had been talk of canceling the event entirely, Mason believed the night should serve a bigger purpose. “It’s not only ‘the show must go on,’ but the show must provide a greater service,” he told The Guardian.“Of course, we’re going to honor music, but our goal is to utilize music to make a difference.”

The Story Behind the Collaboration

Gaga and Mars first performed together at the 2016 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, but their journey as collaborators didn’t truly begin until last year. In June, Mars expressed his desire to work with Gaga, telling the Las Vegas Review-Journal, “I’ve got to at least sing with her.”

As fate would have it, Mars called Gaga late one night while she was working on her album at her Malibu studio. “I was blown away when I heard what he had started making,” Gaga shared. “We stayed up all night and finished writing and recording the song. Bruno’s talent is beyond explanation. His musicianship and vision is next level. There’s no one like him.”