Renowned Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash and bassist Duff McKagan have collaborated on an impactful new charity single, showcasing the extraordinary talent of Cesar Gueikian, the CEO of Gibson Guitars. This exciting project is part of a new initiative called the Gibson Band, which aims to feature various musicians in upcoming releases, making a significant contribution to the music community.

The trio has launched their powerful track titled “I Can Breathe,” which is accompanied by striking artwork created by Serj Tankian of System of a Down. This collaboration not only highlights their musical talents but also underscores their commitment to charitable causes.

Listeners can enjoy the song below.

READ MORE: A Comprehensive Guide to Guns N’ Roses Lineup Changes

“I Can Breathe” is described as a hard-hitting rock anthem that features dynamic rhythm guitars and piano played by Cesar Gueikian, with Duff McKagan lending his powerful lead vocals and lyrics, while Slash adds his signature lead guitar and solos. This collaboration is a testament to their musical synergy and passion for rock music, creating an unforgettable listening experience for fans.

All proceeds from this charity single will be directed to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) through the Gibson Gives program. NAMI is recognized as the largest grassroots organization in the U.S. dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by mental illness, making this initiative particularly impactful for those in need.

The cover artwork for “I Can Breathe” is inspired by a large-scale original painting by Serj Tankian entitled ‘They’re Coming.’ This original piece will be auctioned alongside a unique Gibson Les Paul Standard guitar, which features hand-painted artwork by Tankian, as part of the upcoming global auction hosted by Julien’s Auctions.

Behind the Scenes: How Gibson CEO Collaborated with Guns N’ Roses Legends

Cesar Gueikian expressed his admiration for Guns N’ Roses, stating, “The profound influence of Guns N’ Roses on my guitar playing cannot be overstated. The chance to write and record this song with Slash and Duff feels like a dream come true. It’s a privilege to consider them friends and collaborators.”

He elaborated, “After Guns N’ Roses completed their tour, I shared the song with Duff, who immediately connected with it, quickly writing the lyrics and recording the vocals at the Sound Factory in Los Angeles. His involvement made it clear that Slash would be the perfect choice for the lead guitars and solos, and I was thrilled to extend the invitation to him.”

“I am sincerely grateful for the collaborative efforts of Slash, Duff, and my friend Serj Tankian for his stunning cover artwork. I’m excited that we are donating all proceeds from this song to such a relevant and important cause,” he concluded.

The Gibson Band – ‘I Can Breathe’