Battle of the bands: Dueling concerts as aid for Venezuelans in limbo

Battle of the bands: Dueling concerts as aid for Venezuelans in limbo

Tensions along the Colombia-Venezuela border over the entry of aid meant to alleviate widespread food and medicine shortages in the socialist country will be accompanied by music on Friday, as rival concerts kick off on both sides of the boundary, Reuters reports.

British billionaire Richard Branson is backing “Venezuela Aid Live” in the Colombian border city of Cucuta, where he and 35 artists hope to raise $100 million for food and medical aid.

Some 250,000 people are expected at the free event, which will features performances by Alejandro Sanz, Maluma, Luis Fonsi and Carlos Vives. Donations will be received online and via direct deposits.