Olivia Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields donation reaches $20m after Melinda French Gates match
The raised money is being distributed among 10 nonprofit partners focused on issues affecting women and girls
Olivia Rodrigo’s inaugural Daisy Chain Fields festival has raised $20 million for organisations supporting women and girls after philanthropist Melinda French Gates matched the event’s original $10 million donation.
Rodrigo announced the initial $10 million donation ahead of her headlining performance at the festival in Irvine, California, on Saturday, August 29. The money is being distributed among 10 nonprofit partners focused on issues affecting women and girls.
During the start of Rodrigo’s set, French Gates made a surprise appearance and revealed that she would contribute another $10 million through her organisation Pivotal Ventures, effectively doubling the festival’s donation to $20 million.
The festival was created by Rodrigo as a celebration of women in music while also raising awareness and funds for organisations working on women’s health, reproductive rights, maternal health and other issues. One hundred per cent of Daisy Chain Fields’ net proceeds are being donated to its nonprofit partners.
Among the organisations benefiting from the event are Planned Parenthood, the National Women’s Law Center and Black Mamas Matter Alliance, with the festival supporting a total of 10 nonprofit groups.
Daisy Chain Fields took place at Great Park in Irvine and featured an all-women lineup that brought together artists from multiple generations. Chappell Roan, Doechii, Mitski, Bikini Kill, Garbage, The Breeders, Sarah McLachlan and Stevie Nicks were among the performers at the inaugural event.
Rodrigo’s festival was inspired in part by Lilith Fair, the influential women-focused music festival founded by McLachlan in the 1990s. McLachlan also performed at Daisy Chain Fields, joining Rodrigo onstage for Building a Mystery and Angel.
The headliner also welcomed several surprise guests during her set. Alanis Morissette joined Rodrigo for Ironic, while Nicks performed Fleetwood Mac’s Landslide with the 23-year-old singer.
With the additional contribution from French Gates, Daisy Chain Fields has transformed its debut from a major music event into a $20 million philanthropic effort, giving Rodrigo’s vision for a women-led festival an impact that extends far beyond the stage.
