ASHEVILLE, North Carolina (CNN) -- In 1988, a relatively unknown rock and blues guitarist named Warren Haynes got some of his friends together to play music in Asheville, North Carolina. It was just an opportunity for local musicians to jam during the holidays, the one time of year they were all in town together. Warren Haynes' good work has been noted by the street named after him. The artists also wanted to give back to the community, so they gave the money raised by their show to various charities. The tradition has continued. Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, Haynes' Christmas Jam has evolved into an epic annual event for the musicians, fans, and particularly Habitat for Humanity.
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Guitarist Warren Haynes helped start Christmas Jam 20 years ago
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Asheville, N.C., concert has raised thousands for charity
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Money has built 12 Habitat for Humanity houses in a local neighborhood
"Meeting the families and seeing the work that @placeholder's doing with our help -- you know its hard to see that and not get emotional," Haynes said.