A few limited tickets remain on sale for tonight’s Warren Haynes Presents: Christmas Jam at the ExploreAsheville.com Arena. In addition, the show will be streamed on Volume for those unable to attend, with proceeds directed to the aforementioned charitable organizations. With Christmas Jam on our mind, we revisit this 2009 conversation with Warren about the event.Branford Marsalis with Gov’t Mule, 2006 Christmas Jam – photo by Brad HodgeWarren Haynes’ Christmas JamBefore we get to the music, let’s start out with Habitat for Humanity. Can you talk a bit about your association with them over the years?As I look at the line-up, one name that sticks out is William Bell. I would imagine that some of the younger fans might not know who he is but I know that a number of the musicians are really excited about his appearance.In terms of those collaborations, what sort of role do you take in facilitating them?
Brad Whitford [Aerosmith] is going to be there this year. How did that come about?Has that happened quite a bit? Someone expresses interest to you and then at some point maybe a few years later it just works out in terms of scheduling?This year Christmas Jam is back to a one day event. Were the two days last year just a bit too overwhelming?This year you also have an official house band, the Xmas Jam Band. What are the origins of that?If you close your eyes and look back at past Christmas Jams, what is the first moment that pops into your head?You’ve released a couple compilations of those cool Christmas Jam moments. Do you have additional plans there?DVD
Last question. In addition to the Christmas Jam proper there are a series of daytime events. I’m sure you’re swamped on the day of the show but are you ever able to check out some of those?
