Exclusive BTS at Black Eyed Peas Concert

By RAPHAEL CHESTANG

October 02, 2011

Whether rain, sleet or snow, the Black Eyed Peas seemed determined to put on a show for fans on Friday in New York's Central Park. Our Christina McLarty was exclusively with the group before they hit the stage for their benefit concert.

MORE: EXCLUSIVE: Backstage with the Black Eyed Peas in Paris

60,000 screaming fans packed the outdoor venue, helping the Black Eyed Peas raise $4 million for the Robin Hood Foundation.

"We were doing philanthropy when Black Eyed Peas sold 10 records," said Will.i.am. "Our toy drive back in 1997 at the House of Blues -- we did a free concert, people brought toys and then we took them to a local orphanage in Pasadena called Five Acres."

The Robin Hood Foundation is an organization geared towards ending poverty in NYC.

The group proved that it can be fun to give back as they literally lit up the stage with fluorescent suits.

"Seeing the people of New York excited and motivated to come and party ... it's always an exciting time for us," Taboo confessed.

Perhaps an extra element of danger added to that excitement as storm clouds began to sprinkle the stage towards the end of the performance, threatening all of the electronic gear that adorned the band members.

Watch the video to learn how the group's individual childhoods helped steer them towards a career in music.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS?

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