US singer songwriter Jack Johnson knows better than most what the people of Japan have experienced throughout the past week or so. He and his band were in Osaka last Friday when the devastation nine magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of Honshu.
“My family and I were in our hotel room on the 29th floor in Osaka when the earthquake hit,” he said in a statement. “Although it was an extremely nerve-racking experience, it was nothing compared to what those closer to the epicenter are going through. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the families that have been affected by the earthquake and tsunami.”
Jack was also due to play in Sendai, along with Budokan, Fukuoka and Tokyo, but has postponed these shows after rising concerns about the potential nuclear catastrophe.
He’s personally donated $50,000 to GlobalGiving’s earthquake and tsunami relief appeal to assist the people of Japan in the relief and recovery effort.
Jack is also donating 100% of his tour profits to charities across the globe.
* You can also help with the relief and recovery effort in Japan by making a donation to the Australia Red Cross’s Japan and Pacific Disaster Appeal HERE.
Australia's first stop for pop!
Ian says
It would be timely to mention that Cyndi Lauper, who arrived in Japan last Friday hours after the earthquake, has NOT postponed her tour. All shows have gone on as scheduled. A short radio interview with Joy Behar (http://cyndilauperdaily.com/cyndi_lauper_spoke_with_joy_behar_about_japan.html) explains her reasoning behind staying. Thumbs up to Cyndi – we can’t wait to see you in Australia in a few weeks time!