Musicians and Eagles fans, listen up! How would you like the chance to learn some classic riffs and solos from “Hotel California” from the guy who actually created those parts? Well, you just might get the chance, as ex-Eagles member Don Felder is taking part in a new charity sweepstakes that includes a personal, one-on-one guitar lesson from him.
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The newly launched contest, dubbed the Rock & Roll Retreat Sweepstakes, offers one lucky grand-prize winner an event-filled trip to Nashville while raising money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The Music City excursion will take place from October 23 to October 26. Besides the guitar lesson, the contest winner will be treated to round-trip domestic airfare to Nashville; a three-night stay in a luxurious hotel suite; a tour of the Gibson Garage, including access to the exclusive Gibson Vault; and tickets to the Musicians Hall of Fame Museum.
The winner also will be invited to attend a Gibson Showcase Event with Felder. If that wasn’t enough, the grand prize also includes a bass drum head autographed by Don, and an Epiphone G-1275 Double-Neck Custom electric guitar.
Fans will be able to enter the sweepstakes through September 6. Entry is free, although a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is encouraged. Every $50 donation will count as one entry, and the money will directly support the hospital. You can enter at DonFelder.com/contests.
Fans who submit an entry by August 15 will be eligible to win a Les Paul Standard ’50s Figured Top Washed Cherry Sunburst electric guitar.
Comments About the Contest from Felder
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which opened in 1962, focuses on treating and finding a cure for childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases affecting young people.
Felder explained that his desire to help the hospital is partly inspired by his personal experience with childhood health issues.
“As a young child, I spent two and a half months in the polio ward where music on the radio was my lifeline,” the 77-year-old Rock & Roll Hall of Famer said. “Music gave me hope, freedom, and something to enjoy in such a scary place for someone just beginning their life. That’s where my love for music began—in a children’s hospital.
He continued, “I was fortunate and only have minimal lasting effects. But so many children aren’t as lucky. That’s why giving back to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital means so much to me. I see a little of myself in those kids—the fear, the courage, the fight. Since the hospital first opened its doors, St. Jude has helped raise the childhood cancer survival rate from just 20% to over 80%.”
Regarding the contest, Felder noted, “What better way to come full circle than tying in an unforgettable music experience like the Rock and Roll Retreat Sweepstakes—and knowing it’s all helping children who need it most. And the prize package truly is once-in-a-lifetime. … Music, meaning, and making a difference—what could be better?”
Current News About Felder
Felder currently is taking part in The Brotherhood of Rock Tour, opening for Styx and ex-REO Speedwagon frontman Kevin Cronin. The trek is plotted out through an August 24 concert in Milwaukee. Don also has headlining solo shows scheduled for September and October. You can check out his full itinerary at DonFelder.com.
Meanwhile, Felder released his fourth solo studio album, The Vault – Fifty Years of Music, in May. As previously reported, the 10-track collection features nine new versions of previously unreleased songs Felder wrote and recorded as demos over the course of five decades. It also includes an updated version of Felder’s 1981 solo single, “Heavy Metal.” That song originally appeared on the soundtrack for the animated sci-fi film of the same name.
(Photo by Michael Helms)
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