Gibson CEO and Guns N’ Roses Legends Unite for Powerful Mental Health Anthem ‘I Can Breathe’

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Gibson CEO Cesar Gueikian has teamed up with rock legends Slash and Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses to release a powerful new single, “I Can Breathe.” This emotional anthem blends the raw energy of rock with a heartfelt cause, supporting mental health awareness in a way that only music legends can.

The track, released under the artist name Gibson Band, is more than just another rock anthem—it’s a musical statement. Following Gueikian’s debut single, “Deconstruction”, released in December 2023 with the talents of Serj Tankian (System of a Down) and Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath), “I Can Breathe” marks a significant step in his musical journey, with an even bigger mission. The song is designed not only to captivate rock fans but also to raise funds for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) through the Gibson Gives foundation, which has long championed charitable causes.

A Star-Studded Collaboration

The lineup behind “I Can Breathe” is a rock enthusiast’s dream come true. Duff McKagan, known for his musical prowess as the bassist of Guns N’ Roses, penned the song’s powerful lyrics, reflecting his deep commitment to raising awareness for mental health. Slash, the iconic Guns N’ Roses guitarist, lent his signature bluesy guitar licks, giving the track its unmistakable sound. Gueikian, no stranger to the music scene, contributed his own creative vision by writing the infectious riffs, performing rhythm guitar, and adding keyboards to the mix. Together with Seta Von Gravessen on bass and Jota Morelli on drums, the team created a track that speaks to the heart while rocking hard.

The final version of “I Can Breathe” is a nearly six-minute epic, with its original demo running twice as long. It features progressive rock elements that push the boundaries of traditional rock music, reflecting the spirit of innovation that McKagan embraced during the songwriting process. “Most importantly,” he said, “to be of service for mental health issues and awareness is super important to me at this time. Let’s rock!”

Auctioning for a Cause

In true rock-and-roll fashion, the release of “I Can Breathe” is not only about the music but also about giving back. All proceeds from the single will go toward supporting NAMI and their vital work in mental health advocacy. But the generosity doesn’t stop there—two special auctions are being held to raise even more funds.

The first auction features a painting by Serj Tankian titled “They’re Coming”, which also serves as the cover art for the single. The second auction offers fans the chance to own a piece of rock history in the form of a Les Paul guitar, which bears Tankian’s artwork and the signatures of all the collaborators involved in the track. Both items will be auctioned through Julien’s Auctions, giving fans the opportunity to own iconic memorabilia while supporting an important cause.

A Meaningful Musical Legacy

Gueikian’s collaboration with Slash and McKagan is proof that music can transcend entertainment and become a powerful tool for change. “I Can Breathe” is more than just a rock anthem—it’s a call to action, a testament to the importance of mental health awareness, and a reminder that music can unite people for a cause greater than any individual career.

As McKagan puts it, “Let’s rock!” With “I Can Breathe,” these legendary musicians are doing just that—creating a lasting impact, challenging the norms of rock music, and reminding us that even the most iconic artists can use their platform to make a difference. Fans of all ages are sure to find resonance in this unique blend of music and meaning, making “I Can Breathe” a must-listen for those who believe in the power of music to heal, inspire, and unite.