Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash’s summer wasn’t just about electrifying blues performances. His “S.E.R.P.E.N.T.” festival, which stands for Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality N’ Tolerance, made a significant social impact. Following the U.S. leg’s conclusion, Slash announced that the tour raised over $125,000 for five carefully chosen non-profit organizations.
Focused on mental health, socio-economic equality, and justice initiatives, these charities aim to uplift underserved communities in America. The full amount will be equally distributed amongst the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in honor of Lucy-Bleu Knight, The Greenlining Institute, War Child, The Equal Justice Initiative, and Know Your Rights Camp. Plus1.org played a key role in facilitating the organization and distribution of these proceeds.
The inaugural “S.E.R.P.E.N.T.” festival boasted a stellar blues lineup curated by Slash himself. Fans were treated to performances by WARREN HAYNES BAND, Keb’ Mo’, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Robert Randolph, Samantha Fish, Eric Gales, ZZ Ward, Jackie Venson, and Larkin Poe. Slash’s own Blues Ball Band, featuring Johnny Griparic (bass), Teddy “ZigZag” Andreadis (keys/vocals), Michael Jerome (drums), and Tash Neal (vocals/guitars), also graced the stage at every date.
The goal of the ‘S.E.R.P.E.N.T.’ festival,” says Slash, “is to unite music lovers in these divided times through celebrating the spirit of the blues with like-minded artists. We also aimed to raise awareness and funds for charities that I’ve supported for years. A huge thank you to all the incredible artists who joined us this year.”
Jessica Edwards, Chief Development Officer at NAMI, expressed her gratitude: “This donation will empower NAMI to further address our nation’s mental health needs. It will also support our advocacy efforts for systemic change and empower youth and young adults on their mental health journeys. We thank Slash for joining NAMI in this crucial mission.
