A WEEKEND benefit broadcast featuring recording stars performing live music online from home raised nearly US$8 million for two charities serving first responders and Americans facing economic hardship amid the coronavirus crisis, sponsors said Monday.

The Sunday night show, hosted by Elton John from his kitchen, featured Billie Eilish, the Backstreet Boys, Lizzo, Alicia Keys, Mariah Carey, Lady Gaga and Tim McGraw — all appearing by way of smartphones, home cameras or online platforms.

The Fox broadcast network carried the hourlong show, dubbed the “iHeart Living Room Concert for America,” live without commercial interruption, drawing 8.7 million television viewers, Fox said.

The concert, also broadcast on iHeart radio stations nationwide, urged listeners to donate to two charities, Feeding America and First Responders Children’s Foundation.

As of Monday evening, the benefit special had raised nearly US$8 million for the two organizations, including US$500,000 donated by household products giant Procter & Gamble and a matching sum from Fox.