Members of Black Sabbath, System of a Down, and Gibson’s own Cesar Gueikian combine forces to bring comfort and relief to Armenia
The first lineup of Gibson Band—featuring frontman Serj Tankian of System of a Down, guitarist Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, and Cesar Gueikian, CEO of Gibson Brands—intends to make a significant impact with the release of their debut single, “Deconstruction.” With the drop on December 8, 2023, this benefit release stands not just as a new track; it is a heartfelt effort from Gibson Records, Gibson Gives, and the Armenia Fund, Inc.
How Was the Music Realized?
Tankian and Gueikian, both of Armenian descent, collaborated on the song’s music and lyrics, while the legendary riff-meister, Tony Iommi, lent expertise to the track. Gibson Band, poised to be an evolving collective of players as new projects arise, aims to support the Gibson Foundation with this first release. Other lineups may embark on other ventures, including dominating the charts. Nobody knows the future!
“Deconstruction”: A Musical, Artistic, and Philanthropic Effort
The song “Deconstruction” stands out not only for its composition but also for its cultural objective. The proceeds from its sale will be donated entirely to the Armenia Fund, supporting humanitarian assistance in Armenia and global Armenian communities.
Adding to the uniqueness of “Deconstruction” is the involvement of Serj Tankian not only as a musician but also as an artist. His painting “Our Mountains,” which is used for the single’s cover artwork, symbolizes the Armenian heritage. He reflects, “Our Mountains harks back to the twin peaks of Mount Ararat, a symbol of the Armenian nation and the location for the rebirth of Noah’s civilization.”
Accompanying the release of “Deconstruction” is an exclusive auction, via Julien’s Auctions, from December 8 to December 18, featuring Tankian’s original painting (48″ x 36″ acrylic on canvas) and a one-of-a-kind Gibson Les Paul Standard adorned with the “Our Mountains” artwork. The Eurnekian family of Corporación América Foundation will generously match the funds raised in the auction.
“We are thrilled to launch the Gibson Band project and release the first song, ‘Deconstruction,’ says Cesar Gueikian, CEO of Gibson. “We have been working on this project for a very long time. The concept of the Gibson Band was born out of a love of writing and recording new music and having a new venue for collaboration between our team and our Gibson artists. The first song, ‘Deconstruction,’ brings multiple emotions together for me, including the dream of collaborating with Serj Tankian and Tony Iommi, two artists I admire and who have been influential and transformational in so many ways. Serj and I are both diaspora Armenians therefore, we immediately decided we wanted ‘Deconstruction’ to be dedicated to the Armenian community. I hope everyone loves ‘Deconstruction’ as much as we loved making it!”
“It’s a dream come true to have collaborated with my good friend, Cesar Gueikian, and Tony Iommi, who I have collaborated with before,” says Serj Tankian. “I am happy that we are using our platform to donate the music, my art, and Gibson’s incredibly unique guitar for such a great charity. Music with the right intentions can inspire and also create positive change.”
“It was great to hook up with Serj again and also to do a track with Cesar (I think that he’s trying to steal my job!! ) ha-ha!! The Armenian people are really lovely people, and it’s a great pleasure, a great cause, and I’m very happy to be involved in it.”—Tony Iommi
“We are delighted to participate in this initiative alongside Gibson Records,” says Martin Eurnekian, CEO of Corporación América Airports. “We are committed to fostering positive change within our communities, and we pledge to contribute a donation to the Armenia Fund which will match the funds generated from the auction of Serj’s painting, and the Gibson Les Paul guitar. This collaboration with Gibson presents an exceptional opportunity for us to further our strategic goal of making a meaningful impact in Armenia.”
What is Gibson Records?
Gibson Records, a part of the iconic American instrument brand, is shaping sound across generations. With a focus on guitar-driven music, the label has recently released albums like the Ghost Hounds’ “First Last Time” and Slash Ft. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators’ “4.
What is Gibson Gives?
Gibson Gives, the charitable arm of Gibson Brands, is dedicated to the power of music. Over the past three years, it has raised over $4.5 million, aiding numerous music, health, and wellness initiatives.
What is the Armenia Fund, Inc.?
Armenia Fund, Inc., established in 1992, has been a significant force in providing humanitarian assistance and development programs in Armenia and Artsakh, raising over $300 million to date. The Armenia Fund provides humanitarian assistance to the people of Armenia and global Armenian communities through the development of vital infrastructure projects and educational, cultural, healthcare, and disaster relief programs. They also provide direct assistance to families and individuals.
Bid now for this unique set of musical and artistic items and help Armenia and Artsakh grow stronger
