Flying relatively low on the winter concert radar, Haynes will host the 18th annual Christmas Jam, December 16th at the Asheville Civic Center in North Carolina. Named one of the “10 Best Concerts of the Year” by the London Times, it’s amazing this benefit concert goes so relatively unnoticed. Haynes handpicks the performers that generally represent a wide rock spectrum. Headlining and making his Christmas Jam debut is Dave Matthews appearing solo. If past Christmas Jams are any precedent, Matthews won’t find himself on stage alone for very long. Haynes famously sits on several sets throughout the evening and most of the performers are long time friends. Other notable guests this year include the John Popper Project (featuring DJ Logic), Gov’t Mule (Haynes’s band), the New Orleans Social Club, and the Taj Mahal Trio. Fans are already anticipating a super jam consisting of Matthews on vocals, Haynes on guitar, and John Popper on harmonica.
According to the show’s website “Christmas Jam started 18 years ago as an opportunity for local musicians to jam at the one time of year they were all in town at the same time. Back then, we gave the money to whatever charity we felt like. As the event grew and we became aware of Habitat For Humanity, we settled on them because we believe in the organization and know the money goes where its supposed to. When your work is music, it’s easy and fun to give back.”
Since 1998 (when Habitat for Humanity became sole beneficiary) the Christmas Jam has raised almost a half million dollars. So if you are looking for a welcome break from Christmas carols and hastily assembled pop concerts, check out Warren Haynes and friends for the most unique rock concert of the season. Pre-sale tickets go on sale November 13th at 3:00p.m. Tickets go on sale to the public Friday November 24th at 10am. For more information visit xmasjam.com.
