The Spirit of Life Campaign Harnesses the Power of Music to Transform Lives for Cancer Patients Everywhere
City of Hope®, one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the U.S. with its National Medical Center named top five in the nation for cancer by U.S. News & World Report and a national leader in providing cancer patients with best-in-class, integrated supportive care programs proudly announces Tom Corson, Co-Chairman and COO of Warner Records, as the recipient of the 2025 Spirit of Life® Award. The prestigious honor is a cornerstone of the Music, Film and Entertainment Industry’s annual philanthropic campaign, which brings the industry together to support City of Hope’s mission to make hope a reality for all touched by cancer and diabetes through pioneering research, innovative treatments, and compassionate patient care.
For more than 50 years, the music industry has united around the Spirit of Life campaign, raising nearly $170 million to support City of Hope’s lifesaving research and care. This year, the campaign takes on even greater significance as the Los Angeles community continues to recover from devastating wildfires—events that not only displace families but also contribute to long-term health risks, including increased cancer rates due to toxic smoke exposure. The music industry, deeply rooted in this city, has always come together in times of need, and this year’s Spirit of Life campaign serves as another moment to harness the power of music for healing and hope.
“We are thrilled to honor Tom Corson as this year’s Spirit of Life recipient,” said Kristin Bertell, Chief Philanthropy Officer at City of Hope. “Tom’s leadership, both in the music industry and as a long-time member of the Music, Film and Entertainment Industry Board, exemplifies the transformative spirit that defines our work. Under his guidance and in partnership with Aaron Bay-Schuck, Warner Records has undergone a significant evolution—a parallel to City of Hope’s drive to transform health and cancer care for communities everywhere.”
As Co-Chairman and COO of Warner Records, Corson has been instrumental in shaping the label’s evolution, propelling its artists to global success, and fostering an innovative culture that aligns with the music industry’s ongoing transformation. His decades of commitment to artist development and industry leadership mirror City of Hope’s relentless pursuit of groundbreaking medical advancements.
“It is a profound honor to be recognized as this year’s Spirit of Life honoree,” said Corson. “At Warner Records, we often say it’s not just about the song—it’s about the artist. In the same way, City of Hope isn’t just about treatments—it’s about the people, their dreams, and their futures. When I sit down with an artist, we talk about their goals and aspirations, and we work to make those dreams a reality. That same spirit of transformation is at the core of City of Hope’s mission: turning hope into tangible breakthroughs for patients fighting cancer. The music industry has always been about more than entertainment; it’s about connection, transformation, and impact. I am proud to stand with my peers in championing this cause and supporting the vital and lifesaving work City of Hope does every day.”
Evan Lamberg, President of Universal Music Publishing Group North America and Chairman of City of Hope’s Music, Film and Entertainment Industry (MFEI) board, underscored Corson’s well-earned recognition: “Tom has been an unwavering supporter of City of Hope for years, and his leadership and dedication to both our industry and this cause make him a truly deserving honoree. Each year, the Spirit of Life campaign unites us in a shared purpose—to change lives and give hope to those in need.”
Alissa Pollack, Executive Vice President of Global Music Marketing at iHeartMedia and President of City of Hope’s MFEI board, added: “Tom Corson has been a driving force in shaping modern music, and his philanthropic passion reflects that same commitment. The Spirit of Life campaign reminds us of the power of music to heal and inspire, and Tom’s leadership will help us elevate that message even further this year.”
The Spirit of Life campaign is an annual movement that galvanizes the entertainment industry to raise critical funds for City of Hope’s research and treatment efforts. The campaign will culminate in fall of 2025 at the annual Spirit of Life Gala in Los Angeles, CA. Event details will be announced soon. For more information about the Spirit of Life campaign or to get involved, please contact [email protected].
