In a heartfelt move to support wildfire victims in Los Angeles, DEF LEPPARD has released a powerful cover of Ben E. King’s 1961 classic “Stand By Me.” All proceeds from the track will go to FireAid, an organization dedicated to both short-term relief efforts and long-term initiatives to help those impacted by the destructive wildfires that swept through Southern California in January.
The band’s new rendition of this iconic song is featured in the Netflix film Bank Of Dave 2: The Loan Ranger, which hit streaming services on January 10. DEF LEPPARD can be seen performing the track before the credits roll, adding another memorable chapter to their longstanding connection with Los Angeles.
In a statement, Joe Elliott expressed the band’s deep connection to Los Angeles, calling it the city where DEF LEPPARD began their American journey. “Los Angeles and its surrounding area have always played a central role in DEF LEPPARD’s career, and we feel blessed to dedicate this song to the amazing heroes in L.A. helping those affected by the fires. No better song,” he said.
Rick Savage, the band’s bassist, echoed those sentiments, adding that the devastation caused by the fires is heartbreaking, and his thoughts are with everyone impacted. “To see the devastation caused by the wildfires is heartbreaking. Our hearts go out to you all. May you find a way forward physically, mentally, and spiritually,” Savage said.
In addition to the release of “Stand By Me,” drummer Rick Allen has also partnered with his Raven Drum Foundation to offer five signed guitars to benefit First Responders Resiliency Inc., an organization that provides resiliency and trauma training to first responders and their families across California.
Guitarist Phil Collen, who has lived in Southern California for 35 years, described the cover as a tribute to resilience, unity, and hope. “In times of devastation, standing together is more important than ever. This song is a tribute to everyone coming together to help those in need,” he said.
And for guitarist Vivian Campbell, who’s spent much of his adult life in Los Angeles, the fires have had a deeply personal impact. “It’s beyond heartbreaking to see the devastation. I know so many who have lost their homes and livelihoods,” he shared, offering his continued thoughts for those rebuilding.
DEF LEPPARD’s cover of “Stand By Me” isn’t just a song—it’s a statement of solidarity with Los Angeles. With all proceeds going to FireAid, the band is using their music to help those who need it most, proving once again the power of music to make a real-world difference.
