Earthquakes, tsunamis, after shocks, and radiation; if you’ve looked at a TV in the last month, you’ve seen them all live from Japan. Last time I looked up, CNN was asking Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano if the Fukushima Daiichi plant is as bad as Chernobyl.

Yet, it’s the tragedy that’s coming that has me the most concerned.

What’s worse than earthquakes, tsunamis and radiation? The most tragic thing of all may be forgetting that those things ever happened.

In the States, I still hear at least a little bit about Japan every day just about every news source I tune into. I’ve listened as the conversation has shifted from the scene on the ground in and around the area most impacted by the quake to coverage almost exclusively of the Fukushima plant and finally to coverage of how the Fukushima plant is calling into question our own confidence in nuclear power here in the West. We’ve come full circle and turned the conversation back on ourselves.

Headlines fade away. The conversation grows stale. Yesterday’s news becomes just that. We all move back into our normal routines and forget that there are thousands of people in Japan who desperately need our help just to get a sliver of normal back.

Maybe that’s why dozens of musicians from around the world are supporting Japan not just financially, but by continuing to raise awareness. They’re holding charity auctions and lending songs to benefit albums. They’re releasing exclusive singles. They’re generally doing what celebrities do best; draw attention. The least we can do in return is take notice.

Without further adieu, I present a peak at what at least a few musicians have been up to in their continuing efforts to raise money for the victims of the March 11 quake. If you’re feeling generous, I’ve included links so that you too can donate. And if you’re strapped for cash, pass this little list along. I’m guessing you’ve got a few friends willing to lose a little yen for a good cause.
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