Celebrating its 32nd installment, the Haynes annual Christmas Jam recently took center stage, featuring a unique and memorable cover of Lynyrd Skynyrd by the powerhouse duo Slash and Billy Gibbons, alongside Gov’t Mule. Launched in 1988 by Warren Haynes, this longstanding event has successfully raised $2.8 million to date, all dedicated to supporting the Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity and BeLoved Asheville.
The vibrant 32nd edition unfolded in Asheville, North Carolina, within the Exploreasheville.com Arena. The lineup boasted a diverse array of talents, including performances by Jason Bonham, American Babies, and Clutch, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.
Among the night’s standout moments was a special cover set curated by the seasoned partnership of Slash and Myles Kennedy. With years of touring camaraderie between them, the duo, known for their original material, took the stage for this charitable event with a repertoire of classic rock covers.
Their succinct yet impactful setlist featured renditions of Bad Company’s ‘Feel Like Making Love,’ ACDC’s ‘You Shook Me All Night Long,’ and Bob Dylan’s ‘Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door.’ However, the crowning jewel of their performance was a nearly 10-minute extended version of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s ‘Simple Man.’
Joining forces with Slash and Kennedy for this Southern rock anthem was the legendary Billy Gibbons from ZZ Top. Both Gibbons and Kennedy lent their vocal prowess, creating a dynamic synergy while Slash masterfully wielded his guitar, treating the audience to an electrifying extended solo.
This edition of the Christmas Jam coincided with Warren Haynes’ release of a volume of series recordings from past events. Notably, Haynes had previously showcased Dave Grohl’s remarkable 36-minute rendition of ‘Play’ at the event. The resulting live album, titled “The Benefit Concert Volume 20,” is now available in various formats, including digital, CD, DVD, and vinyl, and can be acquired through the official Haynes website. The fusion of musical talent, charitable spirit, and commemorative recordings continues to define and elevate the legacy of the Haynes Christmas Jam.
Check out the live performance of ‘Simple Man’ below.
