Gregg Allman Leads Hep C Awareness Campaign

Veteran rocker Gregg Allman is teaming with the American Liver Foundation and prescription-drug company Merck to launch the Tune In to Hep C public awareness campaign. In addition, the Allman Brothers Band will play a benefit concert on July 27 to support the initiative.

Allman, who last year underwent a liver transplant as a result of a battle with hepatitis C, is enthusiastic about spreading the word about the condition.

"I'm excited to be working with Merck and the American Liver Foundation because there are many people who have been diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C, but aren't taking action," explains the musician in a press release. "I want to tell them, don't wait. Doing nothing is not an option; they need to talk with their doctor."

He adds that his procedure helped save his life. "I made the decision to take action and talk to my doctor, so that I could get back to making the music I love. I want others to take that action too, and if I can help make that happen, I've done my job."

The Allman Brothers Band will perform a benefit show July 27 at New York's Beacon Theatre. Tickets go on sale Wednesday (June 22), and proceeds will help organizations that support people suffering from hepatitis C.

Watch the Allman Brothers Band Perform 'Don't Keep Me Wondering'