Sure, the tragic, devastating, fiery hell happening in Los Angeles isn’t as close to Anaheim as people might think. Parts of LA are only about 45 minutes away on a good day, but that doesn’t mean these Orange County fools are that safe from the catastrophe so many others are experiencing. The Santa Ana Winds do not give a shit about anyone. No one is safe. Really.
That’s part of why it seems so weird to me, as an LA-bred boo, that this year’s NAMM Show is still slated to happen from January 21–25 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.
NAMM president and CEO John Mlynczak issued a statement on their decision:
The statement reads:
We are closely monitoring the wildfires in Los Angeles and their devastating impact on local communities. During the past few days, our efforts have been focused on reaching out to our members and partners located in the metropolitan Los Angeles area to confirm their safety. Our thoughts are with them at this time.
Anaheim is located 60 miles southeast of the wildfires and is currently unaffected. We are actively working with our partners in Anaheim and the local authorities to ensure we have accurate, up-to-date information. Both Los Angeles International (LAX) and Orange County (John Wayne) airports have remained fully operational.
Based on the latest information, The 2025 NAMM Show will be able to take place as planned from January 21-25 in Anaheim. NAMM will continue to monitor the situation daily as the winds calm down and fires are contained. We will communicate any further information as it’s available leading up to the 2025 show.
We know the road to recovery will be long for the communities affected. NAMM and The NAMM Foundation are committed to supporting the needs of our members and partners in LA through this unprecedented tragedy.
Songwriter Giancarlo Floridia (Faithsedge, Frontiers Music SRL) curated the event, which will feature performances by the HighWire Daze House Band, including drummer Nolan Richards and bassist Jay Montoya.
Some of the other special guests are Tod Howarth (Frehley’s Comet, Four By Fate), guitarist Matt Fuller (ex-Puddle of Mudd), Robby Lochner (Jack Russell’s Great White), and original Anthrax vocalist Neil Turbin’s band.
I get that Anaheim isn’t super close to LA, but something about this just seems so… disrespectful? Either way, I’m standing with my neighbors and keeping everyone in my heart. Hopefully y’all are, too.
