The Concerts for the People of Kampuchea: A Historic Relief Effort

Between December 26 and 29 in 1979, the Hammersmith Odeon in London, England, hosted a series of concerts with a solemn purpose: to provide aid for the people of Kampuchea (present-day Cambodia) who were suffering from the effects of war, famine, and disease. These events claim approximately half of the nation's population between 1975 and 1979.

The Call for Humanitarian Aid

In response to the dire situation, Paul McCartney reached out to the UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim, proposing a massive relief effort. The call was answered by some of Britain's most famous musical talents, culminating in a four-night series of historic performances. Notable artists such as Queen, Ian Dury and the Blockheads, The Clash, The Pretenders, The Specials, The Who, Elvis Costello & The Attractions, and McCartney's own band Wings, which performed its final show at the event, took to the stage.

The Catastrophic Background

The devastation in Kampuchea began with the Indochina War's impact on the country's agriculture. This situation worsened dramatically when Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge regime assumed power in 1975, leading to societal upheaval and widespread starvation. Despite the international efforts coordinated by UNICEF and other UN agencies, the nation was on the brink of collapse.

The Legacy on Film and Vinyl

The unforgettable nights were captured in a film titled Concert For Kampuchea, released in 1980, and narrated by actor and UNICEF goodwill ambassador Peter Ustinov. The film aimed not only to raise funds but also to increase global awareness about refugee plights.

An album consisting of selected performances was released by Atlantic Records in March 1981, its sales further contributing to the humanitarian efforts. The album, a musical token of the event, also helped to invigorate the ongoing mission to bring Kampuchea back to self-sufficiency.

The Grand Finale with Rockestra

McCartney capped off the series by assembling a musical supergroup known as Rockestra. Comedian Billy Connolly introduced a star-studded lineup that delivered a breathtaking performance, concluding with McCartney's Grammy-winning 'Rockestra Theme'.

concert, relief, history