Battle of the bands: fighting AIDS with music

The music industry has formed a coalition of their own to join in the fight against AIDS.

By Life Beat
Taking A Stand

The Red Hot Chilli Peppers Photo: Yahoo
Destiny's Child Photo: Virgen Media

LIFEbeat is the music industry's charitable organization dedicated to reaching America’s youth with the message of HIV/AIDS prevention.

For more than ten years, LIFEbeat has helped to mobilize the talents and resources of the music industry to raise awareness and funds, and to provide support to the AIDS community.

In 1992, the music industry had not yet addressed the AIDS crisis with a unified voice, although many of its members had succumbed to the disease. 

Bob Caviano, a respected music manager, wrote a moving editorial in Billboard magazine disclosing his illness and challenging the industry to take action.  A number of high-level executives heeded his call and formed LIFEbeat.

Over the years, LIFEbeat has emerged as a leading advocate for prevention efforts directed at youth.  Recognizing that music has always played a significant role in the lives of young people, LIFEbeat has carved out a unique niche by effectively using the power of music to reach this population. 

LIFEbeat strives to cultivate a strong sense of self-worth and self- respect in youth to help them resist negative influences that may lead to engagement in risky behaviors.

LIFEbeat relies on a small but dedicated staff and an active Board of Directors to carry out our mission, as well as a wonderful group of volunteers and a network of national AIDS service organizations (ASO's) to educate young people through our outreach efforts.