Five Finger Death Punch has teamed up with Brian May of Queen and two of the biggest names in country and blues rock, Brantley Gilbert and Kenny Wayne Shepherd, to record a special version of the song "Blue On Black" mixed by Kevin Churko. The artists came together to merge country and mainstream rock to re-create the classic song originally recorded and co-written by Shepherd. "Blue On Black" is out today worldwide via Prospect Park (North America) and Eleven Seven Music (ex. North America). The artists also premiered an official music video for "Blue On Black" showing the creation of the song.
The artists and their respective labels are donating all proceeds from the collaboration version of "Blue On Black" (click to buy it) to the Gary Sinise Foundation, which honors America's defenders, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need.
Zoltan Bathory states: "To raise awareness for and support first responders is a cause that's always been close to our hearts. These brave men and women leave their homes every morning not knowing if they'll ever see their families again. Yet they make a conscious choice to do so for the greater good. What better way to make a difference than to join forces with some of our friends in country, blues and classic rock who happen to be some of the biggest names in those genres and together celebrate these heroes."
Gilbert says: "'Blue On Black' is a song my band and I have covered off and on for years... songs are certified timeless when you can come back to them. It's always a staple each night and one of my favorite songs to perform. When the opportunity came up to sing on Five Finger's version, with both Kenny Wayne and Brian May of Queen, I jumped at the chance... Who wouldn't?! It incorporates so many different musical perspectives, but our collaboration just works brilliantly."
Kenny Wayne Shepherd adds: "When Five Finger Death Punch approached me about teaming up with them to do a special version of 'Blue On Black', I was thrilled to do it. When they told me Brantley Gilbert and Brian May were also going to be part of it, I was honored. This is a powerful collaboration of rock, country and blues artists and a true testament to the commonalities these musical styles share, and I think the fans will appreciate and enjoy it as much as we do."
The band wrote on Facebook: "We are proud to present our brand new video for “Blue on Black” featuring iconic guest artists Brian May, Country Rock star Brantley Gilbert and legendary Blues rocker Kenny Wayne Shepherd who originally recorded the song. Proceeds from the song collaboration are being donated to the Gary Sinise Foundation in support of First Responders."
You can watch the video below.
