Dave Matthews Pulls Out of L.A. Fires Benefit Concert Due to “Critical Illness” in Singer’s Family

Dave Matthews has to briefly stop the music.

While the Dave Matthews Band frontman was slated as one of the many celebrities taking the stage during the Jan. 30 concert benefitting those impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires, he is no longer performing, citing a serious family matter.

“Due to a critical illness in the family,” a message shared on the band’s Instagram account Jan. 29 read, “Dave Matthews is unfortunately unable to perform at the FireAid and MusicCares benefits this week.”

No further details were shared. The 58-year-old—who is married to Jennifer Harper—was slated to perform alongside John Mayer. Following the news of Dave’s departure, the “Your Body is a Wonderland” singer sent well-wishes, writing on his Instagram Story Jan. 29, “Sending all my love to Dave, who will be there in spirit with me at FireAid.”

In addition, Dave was scheduled to perform at the annual Grammys MusiCares’ 2025 Persons of the Year benefit gala on Jan. 31, which will support musicians impacted by the wildfires.