Billy Gibbons, Robbie Krieger, Joe Bonamassa Play ‘America Salutes You’ Concert on AXS

By JOHN DALY

The benefit concert America Salutes You: Guitar Legends II will air Sunday, March 24 at 9 p.m. Eastern and 6 p.m. Pacific.  It’s the second consecutive year that the AXS has served as the production partner and cable home of the popular concert. 

Guitar Legends II among a series of events to raise funds and awareness for charities dedicated to brain and mental wellness of America’s veterans and first-responders.

The concert was filmed live at The Novo theater in Los Angeles on Dec. 2, 2018, America Salutes You: Guitar Legends II includes performances by beloved showman.

Sammy Hagar teamed up with Joe Bonamassa and The Doors’ Robbie Krieger on The Doors’ hit “Roadhouse Blues;” an all-star rendition of “Love The One You’re With,” featuring Krieger, ZZ Top axeman Billy Gibbons.

© 2015 Donna Balancia
Robby Krieger at Gibson launch party in Beverly Hills – Photo © 2015 Donna Balancia

Gibbons makes his rock and roll history sharing the stage for the first time with rock mainstay Stephen Stills, virtuoso Orianthi, and American Idol standout Haley Reinhart; as well as Emily Estefan’s fierce rendition of “Black Magic Woman.” Living Colour founder Vernon Reid blazes through the Jimi Hendrix staple “Crosstown Traffic” and a roaring finale that finds the night’s performers collaborating on the WAR signature “Low Rider,” among many others. 

The concert also features appearances and performances by Dave Navarro, and Don Felder, all backed by the L.A. All-Stars Kenny Aronoff, Carmine Rojas, LaBamba, Mark Pender, Joe Sublett, Phil LoPresti, and music director Martin Guigui. Special appearances also include Bob Saget and Lifetime Achievement recipients Norman Lear and Joe Mantegna. As part of this premiere event, Pacific Records is releasing a special compilation soundtrack highlighting the unforgettable evening’s best moments.

The show was orchestrated by America Salutes You—a non-profit foundation specializing in benefit concerts for active military, veterans, and their families. 

The night’s beneficiaries include The Elizabeth Dole Foundation, The David Lynch Foundation, Headstrong, and Entertainment Industries Council.