Slash and Duff McKagan Release New Song With Gibson CEO

Guns N’ Roses members Slash and Duff McKagan joined Gibson CEO Cesar Gueikian to release a charity single under the name Gibson Band. The track, titled “I Can Breathe,” features Gueikian on rhythm guitar and piano, McKagan on lead vocals and lyrics, and Slash on lead guitar. The single benefits the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) through Gibson’s charitable arm, Gibson Gives.

The single’s artwork, created by System of a Down’s Serj Tankian, is based on his painting They’re Coming. The original painting and a hand-painted Gibson Les Paul guitar will be auctioned at a global event by Julien’s Auctions.

Gueikian, a longtime Guns N’ Roses fan, expressed gratitude for the collaboration, highlighting the seamless process of working with McKagan and Slash. Proceeds from the song will support mental health resources, reflecting the band’s commitment to meaningful causes. Gueikian said:

“Having the opportunity to write and record this song with Slash and Duff is a dream come true, and it’s an honor to call them friends and partners.”

He added:

“Guns N’ Roses had just come off touring when I shared the song with Duff. He loved it and quickly wrote the lyrics and cut the vocals at the Sound Factory in Los Angeles. Having Duff on vocals made the next step obvious – which was asking Slash if he would collaborate with lead guitars and solos.
“I’m grateful for the collaboration from Slash, Duff, and from my friend Serj Tankian’s participation with cover artwork. I’m thrilled we’re donating all proceeds from the song to a great and relevant cause.”

Listen to the track below: