Classified to donate song proceeds to Fort McMurray fire relief efforts

Nova Scotia rapper Classified says he is donating the proceeds from his latest song to the Canadian Red Cross fire relief efforts in Fort McMurray.

The tune Work Away is a tribute to oilsands workers, many of whom make the commute from the Maritimes to Alberta, and specifically, Fort McMurray.

"My bags are packed, my favourite hat, I work away to make it work at home," the 38-year-old Enfield native raps. "I work away because there ain't enough work where I come from, but honestly I love where I come from."

The song, from his 15th album Greatful, also features fellow Maritimer David Myles who provides vocals, guitar and horns.

On his official Facebook page, Classified said the song and video have been in the works for months, but took on a new context this week when the wildfire stormed through the city of 80,000.

"So many people we know and care about travel to work there to support their families, not to mention the people who were born and raised there who have lost their homes and livelihoods," he posted to Facebook.

On Thursday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the federal government will match individual donations made to the Canadian Red Cross.

Classified, born Luke Boyd, was encouraging fans to donate.

"This is real life," he wrote on Facebook. "The song, stories and images we've put together over the last few months are of particular significance this week."

• Fort McMurray residents can only hope for rain to halt massive wildfire
• LIVE BLOG: Breaking updates on the Fort McMurray wildfire