Iconic singer and entertainer Cher took center stage at the 2025 City of Hope Gala to present Warner Records co-chairman and COO Tom Corson with the prestigious Spirit of Life Award, highlighting his significant contributions to both the music industry and healthcare causes.
The annual event, which raised an impressive $6 million for biomedical research and cancer treatment initiatives, brought together prominent figures from the music industry in a display of collective philanthropic commitment.
The Spirit of Life Award, considered one of the music industry’s highest humanitarian honors, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to charitable causes.
Corson, a longtime Warner Music Group executive known for his business acumen and community engagement, joins an illustrious list of past recipients who have leveraged their industry influence to advance meaningful social causes.
Cher’s participation underscored her own longstanding relationship with City of Hope and history of advocacy work.
During the presentation, she emphasized the powerful intersection between the music industry and medical research, highlighting how entertainment figures can mobilize resources and awareness for critical health initiatives.
The entertainment world possesses unique power to amplify medical causes, transforming celebrity influence into life-saving research opportunities.
The gala featured an evening of entertainment, auctions, and programming designed to showcase the partnership between the entertainment and healthcare sectors.
Attendees included music executives, recording artists, and philanthropists united in supporting City of Hope’s mission of combating cancer, diabetes, and other life-threatening diseases.
As a nonprofit clinical research center and hospital, City of Hope integrates cutting-edge research with patient care and educational initiatives.
The $6 million raised at the gala will directly support these efforts, funding innovative research programs and enhancing treatment options for patients.
The successful fundraising total represents more than just financial support; it symbolizes the music industry’s commitment to social responsibility and community welfare.
In her heartfelt speech, Cher distinguished Corson as a true music man rather than just another suit in the industry, reflecting her deep appreciation for executives who genuinely understand and champion artistic vision.
Many artists in attendance discussed the importance of promotional strategies for career growth while maintaining focus on charitable giving and community impact.
Industry leaders discussed how musicians today must develop diverse income streams beyond traditional recording and touring to build sustainable careers in the rapidly evolving music business landscape.
