Slash and Duff McKagan release music together for a good cause

Slash and Duff McKagan returned to Guns N’ Roses in 2016. This does not mean, however, that they are working together on new material frequently: in almost a decade, the band has only released four songs, all of them from the Chinese Democracy (2008) and re-recorded by current members.

Therefore, fans were especially excited about the new single mobilized by Gibson Banda collective of musicians led by the instrument manufacturer Gibson. The project, which has a charitable motivation, made the single available “I Can Breathe” on digital platforms.

In addition to Slash on lead guitar and Duff on vocals and lyric composition, the track features rhythm guitar and piano by Cesar GueikianCEO of Gibson. The single’s cover also features the collaboration of Serj Tankianvocalist of system of a Downwho provided a painting.

The company’s record label, Gibson Records, as well as McKagan, Slash and Gueikian, will donate 100% of profits from “I Can Breathe” to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), through Gibson Gives. NAMI is the largest grassroots mental health resource organization in the United States, dedicated to providing a better life for millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

In a statement, Duff McKagan states:

“It was a pleasure working with Cesar and his entire team on this song. The musical bent and progressive rock influence of this grand epic pushed me in a whole new direction. I love a challenge and Cesar nailed it! Most importantly, being of service to mental health issues and awareness is super important to me right now. Let’s rock!”

Slash, in turn, adds:

“Cesar and Duff came to me with a really cool song. I loved the idea of ​​the riff and Duff’s vocals, so it felt right at home.”

In addition to the donated proceeds, the Gibson Band will auction Serj Tankian’s original painting and a Gibson Les paul Standard guitar. The money obtained will also be donated to NAMI.

Listen to “I Can Breathe” below or by clicking here.

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