‘The Benefit Concert Volume 20’
Acclaimed musician Warren Haynes has unveiled a dynamic and historic multi-CD/DVD/vinyl set, The Benefit Concert Volume 20. Out December 8th via Evil Teen Records/Mascot Label Group, the anticipated collection features electrifying performances from icons like Dave Grohl, Eric Church, Joe Bonamassa, Jim James, Gov’t Mule, Grace Potter, and Mike Gordon, among many others, recorded live at Haynes’ 30th annual Christmas Jam on December 7 and 8, 2018 in Asheville, North Carolina. The set paints a vivid tapestry of live music, characterized by spontaneous collaborations, raw energy, and a palpable mutual respect among the artists. For more information and to pre-order, visit https://lnk.to/warrenhaynes.
The Benefit Concert Volume 20 is enriched with iconic performances, such as the hypnotic “Gold Dust Woman,” originally by Fleetwood Mac, now reimagined in a stirring collaboration featuring Warren Haynes, the versatile Grace Potter, and My Morning Jacket’s Jim James. Fans of the Foo Fighters will find themselves enthralled by Dave Grohl and Haynes’ acoustic jam-infused renditions of massive hits “Times Like These” and “Everlong,” along with the only live recording of Grohl’s epic instrumental song “Play,” which made its 45-minute live debut at the Jam that night. Country music enthusiasts will revel in Eric Church’s evocative performances of the Allman Brothers’ “Ain’t Wastin’ Time No More” and his own hit, “Record Year.” Meanwhile, the electrifying “Spanish Boots” showcases the unparalleled guitar prowess of Joe Bonamassa, a 26x #1 selling blues guitar sensation.
Other featured artists on the set include Marco Benevento, Jamey Johnson, Edwin McCain, Kevn Kinney, Tyler Ramsey, Scott Murawski, and Ron Holloway, along with Machan Taylor, Mini Carlsson, Mike Barnes, and Ray Sisk sitting in with Gov’t Mule and solo performances from Haynes. The Benefit Concert Volume 20 will be available physically on four different double vinyl volumes (in different colors: purple, orange, blue, red), 2-CD + DVD set, and 3-CD + 2 Blu-ray set, along with a digital-only format. Bundles are also available now to pre-order.
Starting in December of 1988, Warren Haynes launched what would become a cherished tradition in his hometown of Asheville, North Carolina. Despite its name, the “Christmas Jam” was less about festive tunes and more about gathering local musicians to celebrate the holidays and give back to the community. Over 30 years later, this humble event transformed into a nationally recognized spectacle, raising over $2.8 million for Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity and the construction of over 50 homes in the region. Reflecting on its growth, Haynes notes, “As an Ashevillean, it’s heartening to see the progress Asheville has witnessed over these three decades. In many ways, Christmas Jam mirrors this city’s vibrant spirit.”
The Benefit Concert Volume 20 stands out not only as a testament to three decades of musical celebrations, but also the enduring spirit of Christmas Jams. Throughout the years, it’s the impromptu collaborations (often times between artists and musicians meeting backstage or on stage), the unwavering commitment of all participants, and the unity in music that truly define this legacy.
“Although Christmas Jam, the main event, is traditionally a one-night event, there have been three occasions where we felt the need to make it two nights — the 20th, 25th, and 30th Anniversaries, each of which featured extraordinary line-ups,” Haynes adds. “The performances being represented in this package are culled from the 30th Anniversary in 2018, which was in itself a milestone for ‘the Jam.’ However, its importance is amplified by the fact that the next year we would take a well-deserved break with every intention of resuming business as usual in 2020, not knowing that 2020 would bring about the COVID-19 pandemic which affected not just the music business, but the entire world. Thankfully, we were able to bring it back in 2022 with a stellar lineup and will continue on this year with another memorable event. It feels great to be back.”
Warren Haynes is a cornerstone of the American music landscape, lauded as one of the most formidable guitarists and vocalists of our time. His prolific career includes his tenure with the Allman Brothers Band and The Dead and as a founding member of Gov’t Mule. Produced by Haynes and executive produced by Stefani Scamardo, The Benefit Concert Volume 20 is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a testament to the power of music and community. From its art direction & design by Phil Yarnall to the stunning photography from stalwarts like Jay Blakesberg and Dino Perrucci, every facet of this release has been meticulously crafted.
Christmas Jam returns for the 32nd annual event on December 9th, 2023. Visit www.xmasjam.com for ticketing details and to purchase.
