As the catastrophic California wildfires relentlessly spread through the Los Angeles area, Primus singer and bassist Les Claypool took to Instagram over the weekend to share devastating news: the band’s talented guitarist, Ler LaLonde, has tragically lost his home. This heartbreaking revelation highlights the widespread impact of the ongoing natural disaster, which has affected countless families and communities across the region, leaving many without shelter or resources.
?All that remains of our dear friend Larry ?Ler? LaLonde?s home,? Claypool poignantly described, sharing a photo that depicts a house reduced to ashes, with only the remnants of a brick fireplace standing amidst the devastation. ?When Mother Nature rises up, it can be brutal,? he added, expressing his deep sympathy for LaLonde and his family during this incredibly difficult time. Claypool?s heartfelt message resonates with many who have witnessed the destructive power of nature firsthand.
The post drew an outpouring of support from fellow musicians, showcasing the solidarity within the music community. Notable figures chimed in, including former Police drummer Stewart Copeland, who commented, ?Dang. Ler did not deserve this,? while singer Carina Round expressed her condolences with, ?Oh my. So much love to them.? This sense of community and shared grief is crucial during such tragic times, reminding everyone of the importance of compassion and support.
Ler LaLonde?s wife, Shane Stirling LaLonde, shared her own harrowing experience through a series of pictures and videos detailing the fires that have decimated the family?s home in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood. This area has been nearly obliterated by the ongoing Palisades fire, which continues to rage. ?Our home is gone, and so are the homes of every one of our friends and neighbors. I am still in shock, trying to process this reality. The first photo is a video confirmation we received that our home was lost,? she shared, alongside a video capturing the extent of the destruction.
?We lost everything. It?s hard to accept that you have nothing left. It?s a reality that doesn?t sink in easily,? she continued, reflecting on the emotional toll such a loss takes. ?I know we are safe, and I am grateful for that, but I can?t even begin to find peace yet as I struggle to comprehend this situation,? she added. ?It?s not just the material possessions, but our town, our community. We no longer have a home, a neighborhood, or a school. I am devastated to the core.? Her words poignantly encapsulate the profound grief experienced by those affected by such tragedies.
Ler LaLonde is among the thousands of Angelenos who have faced unimaginable loss during this week-long series of rampant fires. These fires, exacerbated by fierce Santa Ana winds, have engulfed more than 38,000 acres, which is roughly equivalent to 60 square miles, and have devastated over 12,000 homes and buildings. Tragically, the fires have claimed 24 lives, and approximately 200,000 individuals have been displaced, according to reports from CNN. The sheer scale of this disaster is staggering and continues to unfold, leaving many in dire need of assistance.
Many musicians and prominent figures in the entertainment industry have also spoken out about their own losses ? including Mandy Moore, Paris Hilton, Tina Knowles (Beyoncé?s mother), Jhené Aiko, acclaimed songwriter Diane Warren, Adrian Smith of Iron Maiden, and stars from The Hills, Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag. Their voices have joined in solidarity to raise awareness and support for those affected, while many are actively working to provide assistance to those in need.
On Monday, January 13, Beyoncé?s BeyGOOD foundation announced a generous $2.5 million donation to the L.A. Fire Relief Fund, aimed at aiding families in desperate need. Additionally, Regional Mexican stars Fuerza Regida are taking action by renting hotel rooms for displaced families, making a tangible difference in their lives during this crisis. Hilton, whose own Malibu home was lost live on television, has initiated an emergency fund through her 11:11 Media Impact nonprofit to support families who have lost their homes. Such initiatives highlight the power of community and the importance of coming together during times of tragedy.
In response to this crisis, MusiCares and the Recording Academy have launched the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort, aimed at supporting music professionals impacted by the devastating fires. They have pledged a combined total of $1 million to kickstart this vital initiative. Those who have worked in the music industry for over five years may qualify for immediate assistance, which includes up to $1,500 in financial aid and $500 in food vouchers. This effort serves as a vital resource for those in the music community who are facing significant challenges during this difficult time.
For health alerts, evacuation updates, and additional shelter information as the wildfire battle persists, please visit L.A. County?s emergency website here. Numerous organizations, listed here, are also providing support to those impacted by the wildfires that began last Tuesday. Musicians and music industry professionals who are affected can find more details about available assistance here. It?s crucial to stay informed and connected during such critical times as communities work together to recover and rebuild.
