In a harmonious blend of rock and soul, stateside guitarist Warren Haynes, who’s been a member of The Allman Brothers Band and Gov’t Mule among other claims to fame, has released ‘Gold Dust Woman‘ the first single from his forthcoming epic release, The Benefit Concert Volume 20 –
A soul-stirring rendition of Fleetwood Mac song. Performed alongside My Morning Jacket‘s Jim James and singer/songwriter Grace Potter, the trio bring a raw, magnetic energy to the classic song, producing a version that resonates with both nostalgia and fresh, fiery passion.
Warren Haynes launched what would become a cherished tradition in his hometown of Asheville, North Carolina back in December 1988. Despite its name, Haynes’ Christmas Jam has been 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 recognised 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 noted, “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.”
‘Gold Dust Woman’, with its haunting harmonies and gritty guitar riffs, captures the essence of the historic event – Celebrating the joy of live music and the power of collaboration. This release not only pays homage to the legendary roots of the song but also spotlights the chemistry between these acclaimed artists. The voices merging as one against the backdrop of Haynes’ masterful guitar work, to reinterpret this timeless hit for a new generation of listeners.
Available digitally, you can check out the video for the single here at RAMzine.
On 8th December 2023, the multi-CD/DVD/vinyl set The Benefit Concert Volume 20 will be released via Evil Teen Records/Mascot Label Group, and 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 7-8th December in 2018, 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 click here.
As noted, The Benefit Concert Volume 20 is enriched with performances such as the ‘Gold Dust Woman’, originally by Fleetwood Mac, now reimagined in a stirring collaboration featuring Haynes, the versatile Grace Potter, and Jim James. Fans of The Foo Fighters should 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’, that 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 guitar prowess of Joe Bonamassa, a 26 times number 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 colours: 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. For more information and to pre-order click here.
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 noted. “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 line-up and will continue on this year with another memorable event. It feels great to be back.”
Christmas Jam returns for its 32nd annual event on 9th December 2023. Should you be planning on going over to the USA this festive season, for more information on the event click here.
