Sometimes, a song is more than a song. It becomes a rallying cry, a beacon of hope, or a vehicle for real-world change. Across decades, musicians have stepped up to raise money for causes that matter, creating charity albums that not only moved us emotionally—but moved the needle for humanitarian aid, health, education, and justice. From global icons like George Harrison and Elton John to projects uniting genres and generations, these albums prove that when artists band together, the result is magic.
Here are 20 great charity albums of all time, and every one of them made a difference.
‘AHK-toong BAY-bi Covered’ – Various Artists (2011)
What happens when legends cover legends? You get this bold reinterpretation of U2’s ‘Achtung Baby’ with Nine Inch Nails, Patti Smith, Depeche Mode, and Jack White all offering their spins. Sales supported Concern Worldwide’s humanitarian efforts, proving rock can indeed roll toward justice.
‘Axis of Justice: Concert Series Volume 1’ – Various Artists (2004)
Co-founded by Tom Morello and Serj Tankian, Axis of Justice unites music and activism. This live collection features System of a Down, Audioslave, and Flea, all raising funds for social justice causes—where political fire meets musical power.
‘Bob Dylan: Christmas in the Heart’ – Bob Dylan (2009)
Only Dylan could sing about chestnuts roasting and have it echo like a prayer. This holiday album’s proceeds forever support Feeding America, Crisis UK, and the World Food Programme. A stocking stuffer with a purpose.
‘Chimes of Freedom: The Songs of Bob Dylan’ – Various Artists (2012)
A mammoth tribute to Dylan’s work and a 50th-anniversary celebration of Amnesty International. With over 80 artists including Adele, My Morning Jacket, Elvis Costello, and Patti Smith, this album stands as one of the most ambitious musical fundraisers ever.
‘Classic Elton John’ – Elton John (1994)
A greatest-hits collection that went straight to the heart—literally. Proceeds from this timeless set supported Ronald McDonald House Charities, showing Elton’s music not only sparkles, but heals.
‘Common Thread: The Songs of the Eagles’ – Various Artists (1993)
Country stars like Vince Gill and Travis Tritt covered Eagles classics to raise money for Don Henley’s Walden Woods Project. Nature, harmony, and timeless songwriting, all in one.
‘Diana, Princess of Wales: Tribute’ – Various Artists (1997)
After Diana’s tragic death, the music world responded with this emotional compilation featuring Eric Clapton, Queen, R.E.M., and Celine Dion. Every note helped continue Diana’s humanitarian mission.
‘Future Soundtrack for America’ – Various Artists (2004)
Curated by They Might Be Giants and supported by MoveOn.org, this quirky, impassioned compilation includes R.E.M., Tom Waits, Blink-182, and David Byrne. A sonic call to civic action in uncertain times.
‘Give US Your Poor’ – Various Artists (2008)
Fighting homelessness through harmony, this album paired icons like Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi with people experiencing homelessness. A poignant, powerful reminder that everyone deserves a voice.
‘God Bless America’ – Various Artists (2001)
In the wake of 9/11, musicians united for this benefit album supporting the Twin Towers Fund. Featuring Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” and Withers’ “Lean On Me,” it helped a grieving nation find its footing.
‘Hear ‘n Aid’ – Various Artists (1986)
Move over “We Are the World”—metalheads had their own moment with Dio, Judas Priest, and Scorpions thrashing for a cause. This heavy metal charity album raised $3 million for famine relief in Africa.
‘Hope for Haiti Now’ – Various Artists (2010)
Released in response to the devastating Haiti earthquake, this telethon-turned-album featured Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Springsteen, and Coldplay. Every download was a donation—and a lifeline.
‘In the Name of My Father: The Zepset’ – The Jason Bonham Band (1997)
Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham’s son Jason paid tribute with this thunderous live album. All proceeds went to the Big Sisters of Los Angeles and a motorcycle camp in John’s memory.
‘Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur’ – Various Artists (2007)
A Lennon tribute for a cause that needed urgent attention. U2, Green Day, R.E.M., and Snow Patrol covered Lennon’s work with proceeds going to Amnesty International’s efforts in Darfur.
‘No Alternative’ – Various Artists (1993)
A defining moment of ’90s alt-rock—with Nirvana (unlisted, naturally), Smashing Pumpkins, and Patti Smith—raising awareness and funds for AIDS relief. A culture-shaping charity LP if there ever was one.
‘Nobody’s Child: Romanian Angel Appeal’ – Various Artists (1990)
Spearheaded by Olivia Harrison, this LP helped orphaned children in Romania. It features the Traveling Wilburys, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, and Paul Simon. George Harrison once again led with heart.
‘Peace Together’ – Various Artists (1993)
Music met peace activism with this benefit for Northern Ireland’s youth. Irish legends like U2, Sinead O’Connor, and the Cranberries contributed alongside Peter Gabriel and Blur. Healing through harmony.
‘Songs for Japan’ – Various Artists (2011)
After the catastrophic Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, this multi-label, multi-genre effort featured Dylan, U2, Beyoncé, and Lady Gaga. Global stars, global support, global impact.
‘Sweet Relief: A Benefit for Victoria Williams’ – Various Artists (1993)
When singer-songwriter Victoria Williams was diagnosed with MS, friends like Pearl Jam, Lucinda Williams, and Lou Reed recorded her songs. It launched the Sweet Relief Fund, now a vital lifeline for musicians in need.
‘We Are the World’ – USA for Africa (1985)
The blueprint. Written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, produced by Quincy Jones, and featuring everyone from Springsteen to Stevie Wonder, this track—and album—raised over $60 million for famine relief in Africa. Charity music’s Mount Rushmore.