Pharrell Williams Catches Heat For Asking Public To Donate To COVID-19 Relief

Pharrell Williams recently shared a link to a crowdfunding campaign for COVID-19 relief efforts, but not everyone was happy to see a millionaire ask the public for money.

BYErika Marie
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Celebrities have come forward to use their platforms to bring awareness to social distancing and COVID-19 relief efforts, but the public has often been biting toward their requests. Some famous figures have announced their generous donations to non-profits or directly to healthcare workers, but when Pharrell Williams asked for his followers to donate to the Frontline Responders Fund, he was met with backlash.

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The award-winning artist shared a link to a GoFundMe crowdfunding campaign that has raised over $4 million to date, but not everyone thought it was appropriate for the multi-millionaire to ask donations. "Hospitals are running low on masks, gowns, and other critical items. We need to replenish their supplies," Pharrell tweeted. "Take action, make a donation, and ask others to join the fight. We’re in this together. Let’s protect the responders on the frontlines."

On person reminded him that he's "worth over $150 million" and that he needs to "donate [his] own money." Pharrell told the Twitter user that he just wanted to find a way for people to help. “So sorry if i wasn’t clear. I of course donated but wanted to make sure my followers had a way to get involved if they needed too." Recently, Metro Boomin called out those who were giving rich people a hard time about how much money they're donating to relief efforts. Do you think the rich and wealthy should ask the public to donate?

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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.