They didn’t think I’d make it this long...

I was diagnosed with nasal cancer back in 2013 and have undergone 33 surgeries since then. Declared cancer-free in 2014, I resumed recording, and released “Snake Pit” in 2016.  But the cancer returned. I was sent home from my last hospital stay because they couldn’t do anything more. Most thought I couldn’t survive. It’s been like a never-ending nightmare.

You probably don’t know me by name. I shared stages with Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf and Buddy Guy back in the 60s. I was a member of Canned Heat and played Woodstock. I played with John Mayall. And The Rolling Stones. In fact, I almost became a Rolling Stone. My name is Harvey "The Snake" Mandel,. I’ve been making music over 60 years, bridging the gap between the blues, jazz and rock. They call me “the king of sustain.”

What I've Been Working On

I’m currently in the process of recording a new album titled “Snake Walk,” my come-back album. I’ve already released one single off the new record: “Cashmere” with the rest of the album set to be released in the spring of next year.

Making this record has pulled me out of the darkness. I believe it has saved my life. I’ve recorded ten songs, all imagined in my head since being sick.

I was languishing in bed, barely talking with anyone – barely living. My co-producer called me out and challenged me to write a song. That was the spark that got me up, to do what I’ve been doing for over 60 years – make music.

And, I don’t like to brag, but technically, playing-wise, this is definitely some of the best that I’ve ever played. I just heard it in my mind and knew the magic I wanted make. 

The Challenge

My Challenge is dealing with all the costs that go into making a record. Releasing a record the right way is incredibly expensive and involves a lot of moving parts – I’m just a musician, not a record label guy.

Without this campaign and the funds from you, the release of “Snake Walk” might fall flat. It might not reach out to as many people as I want and it will probably fly "under the radar" while albums with more money in their pockets will enjoy far more reach and awareness.

What I need

I am aiming to raise $14,580 to cover fees for recording, mixing, paying the musicians, producing the album, digital advertising, and merch.  My stretch goal is $15,315 for pressing vinyl, music videos, hiring radio and PR reps and more digital advertising.

What You Will Get

In exchange for your support, I’ve come up with some pretty cool rewards for you as a thank you…

T-shirts, hats, CDs, vinyl, limited-edition posters, plus executive producer, and liner note credits on the album. Some perks will be unveiled later in the campaign, so stay tuned.

The Impact

My hope is that this new record ignites thought and inspires people to start something that matters – a project, a calling, something that may be lying dormant inside. The world needs creators, needs our gifts — the songs we need to sing, the words we need to write, the mission that needs sprouting!

I’ll be forever grateful for your support and contributions - whether you are brand new to my music, or you have been a fan for the last 6 decades! You're not only helping me dig out of my medical darkness, but also enabling me to share my comeback record with the world.  Thank you for being a part of "Snake Walk."

I'll be forever grateful!