Since its inception in 1989, over 400 artists, producers and directors have contributed to over 21 compilation albums, related television programs, and media events to raise donations totaling more than 10 million dollars for HIV / AIDS relief and awareness around the world.

[1] First founded as King Cole, Inc. by Leigh Blake and John Carlin, Red Hot was established in 1989 in response to the AIDS epidemic and its impact on artists and creators within New York City.

Carlin, who previously pursued a career as an entertainment lawyer, expressed the wish to create an "AIDS charity album" to pay tribute to American singer/songwriter Cole Porter.

[3] The project was later adapted into a one-and-a-half-hour TV special, hosted by Richard Gere, Carrie Fisher and Kyle MacLachlan which aired on World AIDS Day 1990 during prime time on ABC.

"[6] The Denver Post stated that the album was full of "summery, breezy songs" that alternately "surprises and triumphs" and ultimately deemed it "one of the most listenable records to come across our desk in months.