Musicians Help in Japan's Relief Efforts

In the wake of the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan last week, many artists back stateside are doing what they can, through their music, to help raise money for the relief efforts.

Probably the most notable of all the contributors is blink-182's Mark Hoppus who took to the internet almost immediately after the events to help raise some dough. On March 11, the day America first learned of the disaster a world away, Hoppus posted the following on his Facebook page:

"Auctioning off a bunch of collectible blink-182 items to benefit the American Red Cross in their effort to assist with the disaster relief in Japan. All proceeds will be donated."

In the week since the events, Hoppus has posted six (6) items to his eBay account. The collectibles offered include an original lyrics sheets from "The Rock Show", a blink-182 all access pass from their 2009 tour, Hoppus' own orange shirt he wore in the "Dammit" video and an original "What's My Age Again" promotional CD - amongst other things.

What's even more impressive is that Hoppus has vowed to sign each item with a personal message to the buyer. The goods he has listed sort of chronicle the history of blink, and will certainly be some of the rarest pieces of rock 'n' roll memorabilia out there.

While this article was being written, bid totals on all of Hoppus' current items hovered in the $30,000 range. Add that to the blink magnets and stickers already sold, and it's clear that a good chunk of money will be donated.

But blink-182 aren't the only band getting involved. Joining the eBay/Red Cross cause is Bad Religion, who are auctioning off an autographed cymbal, as well.

While this all sounds really cool, chances are that most rock 'n' roll fans don't have $20,000 to drop on four pieces of paper with lyrics scribbled on them, or another $2,000 on a promotional CD with one song on it. No worries. For those of you that still want to support the cause and grab something music related, look no further than Vs. The Earthquake - a 22-track compilation CD featuring some of the best bands in the alternative rock scene today.

Included on the track listing are The Wonder Years, Valencia, The Swellers, Transit, Such Gold and more. Just about every song featured is either a cover, live recording or an acoustic track - making the record a truly unique collection of music. And the best part is that CDs are available for just $5, with all proceeds also going to relief efforts.

So what more could you ask for? After all, making a donation is great, but making a donation and scoring some music swag is even better.

**UPDATE** Circa Survive are also auctioning off vinyl test pressings of each one of their records. All proceeds will be donated to aide the relief efforts, as well. You can bid HERE.