Tenacious D Reunited for Los Angeles Wildfire Benefit Compilation
Less than a year after canceling their tour due to a controversial statement made by bandmate Kyle Gass, Tenacious D has made a comeback. The iconic duo, Jack Black and Kyle Gass, contributed a song to a benefit compilation aimed at supporting those affected by the Los Angeles wildfires.
Benefit Compilation: A Ray of Hope
The “Good Music to Lift Los Angeles” compilation, released on Bandcamp, features over ninety tracks from various artists, includingAnimal Collective, TV on the Radio, Jeff Tweedy from Wilco, and R.E.M. Tenacious D’s contribution is a cover of REO Speedwagon’s timeless hit, “Keep on Loving You,” a song they have frequently performed in their live sets.
The Controversial Incident
In July 2024, during a concert in Sydney, Australia, Gass celebrated his birthday with a controversial birthday wish following the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. His statement, “Don’t miss Trump next time,” sparked outrage among conservatives both in Australia and the United States. Some even called for his deportation.
The Aftermath
Following the backlash, Tenacious D’s Australian tour was canceled, and their planned Rock the Vote tour in the U.S. was put on hold. Jack Black issued a statement condemning his bandmate’s words, expressing regret for the hate speech and encouraging peace. He also announced a hiatus for the band, stating that they would reassess when to return to their musical endeavors.
Kyle Gass, who was subsequently dropped by his talent agent, apologized for his “highly inappropriate, dangerous and terrible mistake” in a social media post that he later deleted. Despite the fallout, Black affirmed their friendship with Gass, emphasizing that they would return when the timing felt right.
The Path Forward
During the red carpet premiere of his movie, Borderlands, Jack Black expressed that Tenacious D “will be back,” acknowledging that they needed a break but affirming their commitment to fellow artists and music fans.
Tenacious D Returns
The band’s Instagram account, which had been dormant since Gass’s birthday wish, was reactivated to announce their contribution to the wildfire benefit. The account shared the uplifting tracks by various artists, including their own version of “Keep on Loving You.”
Artist Remarks
“These things take time sometimes… And we’ll be back when it feels right.”
— Jack Black, Lead Vocalist of Tenacious D
With this heartfelt return, Tenacious D not only contributes to a significant cause but also demonstrates their resilience and commitment to music. Their cover of “Keep on Loving You” serves as a motivational and unifying tribute in the face of tragedy.
Final Thoughts
Tenacious D’s participation in “Good Music to Lift Los Angeles” signifies hope and solidarity among the music community. By working together, artists like these can make a tangible difference in people’s lives. As they prepare for future endeavors, their journey serves as an inspiration for unity amidst adversity.
Stay Updated
For the latest music news and updates on Tenacious D’s future releases, be sure to follow our site and share this story on your social media platforms. Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!