Slash, the iconic guitarist from GUNS N’ ROSES, is gearing up for a special one-night-only performance with his blues band at The Mission Ballroom in Denver, Colorado on July 17. This exclusive event is part of his “S.E.R.P.E.N.T.” blues festival and will be livestreamed globally on Veeps, giving fans a chance to witness the magic of Slash’s blues revival.
The band accompanying Slash includes Johnny Griparic on bass, Teddy “ZigZag” Andreadis on keyboards, Michael Jerome on drums, and Tash Neal on vocals and guitar. The festival, named “S.E.R.P.E.N.T.”, stands for Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality N’ Tolerance. It aims to unite fans in celebrating the blues genre and features a diverse lineup of talented artists.
In addition to spreading the joy of blues music, Slash is committed to giving back to charitable organizations that are close to his heart. A portion of the proceeds from VIP packages and festival tickets will directly support charities such as The Equal Justice Initiative, Know Your Rights Camp, The Greenlining Institute, and War Child. By partnering with Plus1.org, Slash aims to make a positive impact through his music and philanthropic efforts.
The “S.E.R.P.E.N.T.” festival will feature other renowned artists like WARREN HAYNES BAND, Keb’ Mo’, Larkin Poe, and more, making it a star-studded affair for blues enthusiasts. The festival tour kicks off on July 5 in Bonner, Montana, and concludes on August 17 in Grand Prairie, Texas.
For those unable to attend the live performance, the stream of “Slash: Live from The Mission Ballroom” will be available on Veeps starting at 9:30 p.m. MDT on July 17, 2024. The show will remain accessible for one year after the initial broadcast, allowing fans to enjoy it at their convenience. While U.S. fans with Veeps All Access subscriptions can watch for free, international viewers can purchase tickets for $14.99 to catch the action.
Slash’s latest album, “Orgy Of The Damned”, released on May 17 via Gibson Records, features a stellar lineup of guest appearances including AC/DC’s Brian Johnson, AEROSMITH’s Steven Tyler, and Iggy Pop, among others. The album spans a wide range of blues styles, from upbeat renditions of classic tracks to soulful, emotional performances that capture the essence of the genre.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the album title, Slash shared that he wanted to challenge the stigma surrounding blues and rock music, which have often been viewed as taboo. By collaborating with various artists on a blues record, he aimed to create a meaningful collection of songs that resonated with both the performers and the audience.
While assembling the album, Slash faced the challenge of coordinating with multiple guest musicians, including his friend Iggy Pop and powerhouse vocalist Demi Lovato. Despite some missed opportunities, such as not being able to collaborate with Lemmy from MOTÖRHEAD, Slash was grateful for the positive responses he received from the artists involved.
Slash’s deep-rooted connection to blues music dates back to his childhood, where he was introduced to the genre by his American grandmother. Growing up in an environment filled with rock ‘n’ roll classics and folk influences, Slash found inspiration in legendary artists like B.B. King and Stevie Wonder, whose music shaped his own unique style.
“Orgy Of The Damned” showcases Slash’s passion for blues music and his dedication to honoring its rich history while adding his distinctive flair to each track. From gritty, guitar-driven performances to soulful ballads, the album captures the essence of blues in a modern context, resonating with fans old and new.
As Slash continues to promote his latest album and prepare for upcoming performances, fans can look forward to experiencing the magic of his blues revival firsthand. Through his music, Slash aims to connect with audiences around the world and spread the joy of blues music while supporting charitable causes that make a difference in people’s lives.