We Speak Music

National Gospel Recording Artist Ellen Hayes Announces the Release of Her Farewell Album, “Behind My Eyes “, Out October 9 2026

Published

2 hours ago

August 6, 2026

Award-winning national gospel recording artist, songwriter, producer, arranger, and choir director Ellen Hayes proudly announces the release of her highly anticipated farewell album, Behind My Eyes—a deeply personal collection of music that reflects a lifetime of faith, perseverance, worship, and God’s unfailing grace.

For more than five decades, Hayes has devoted her life to ministry through music. From directing choirs and developing vocalists to writing, producing, and arranging songs that have inspired audiences around the world, she has faithfully answered God’s call. Behind My Eyes serves as the musical testimony of everything she has seen, endured, celebrated, and overcome.

“This album is more than a collection of songs,” says Hayes. “It is my testimony. Every lyric tells a story of God’s faithfulness through seasons of joy, heartbreak, victories, disappointments, and unwavering hope. These are the things people don’t always see—behind my eyes.”

The album features a rich blend of musical styles that have shaped Hayes’ career, including traditional gospel, contemporary gospel, hymns, soul-infused worship, and inspirational originals. Listeners will experience heartfelt renditions of timeless hymns such as Precious Lord and The Old Account, along with a moving interpretation of Thank You Lord, made famous by the late Walter Hawkins. The project also showcases powerful original compositions written by Hayes herself, including the uplifting single Count Your Blessings, which encourages listeners to focus on God’s goodness regardless of life’s challenges.

Adding to the album’s emotional depth are performances from members of Hayes’ own family, who provide background and featured vocals throughout the project. The album also honors the lasting musical contributions of beloved musicians Darryl Smith and Darryl Dixon, whose performances continue to resonate on several recordings included on the album.

Throughout her remarkable career, Ellen Hayes has released multiple recording projects, earned industry recognition, served as a songwriter for the Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA), hosted Beats & Blessings Radio on WMKM 1440 AM, founded Songs and Melodies Records LLC, and dedicated herself to mentoring aspiring artists and strengthening communities through music and health advocacy.

Although Behind My Eyes marks Hayes’ final full-length album, she emphasizes that this is not the end of her musical ministry.

“My assignment isn’t over,” Hayes explains. “While this will be my final album, I will continue writing, producing, and releasing singles as the Lord leads. Music will always be part of my purpose.”

Behind My Eyes is both a celebration of an extraordinary musical journey and an invitation for listeners to reflect on God’s faithfulness in their own lives. Whether through joyful praise, quiet worship, or heartfelt testimony, every song reminds us that God has been present through every chapter—even the ones hidden behind our eyes.

We Speak Music

Kat Orlando Releases New Ballroom Dance Single “BlackTie”

Published

1 hour ago

August 6, 2026

Olivia Long

Detroit’s own Queen of Sax, Kat Orlando, follows up her highly danceable “Mean Daughter’s Wedding” with another gem!

“Black Tie”, the title track of the EP, is expertly crafted for the urban ballroom dance community, capturing the ele gance, rhythm, and sophistication that define the culture. Its smooth, soulful groove is complemented by a subtle yet infectious drive, creating the perfect tempo for dancers to effortlessly glide across the floor. Whether moving gracefully within a crowded ballroom or sharing an intimate moment as a couple, the song’s rhythm invites every step with confidence and style.

Lyrically, Kat tells a story of attraction and anticipation. The female protagonist is captivated by a distinguished gentleman wearing a black tie, his presence commanding attention from across the room. As their eyes meet, the music becomes the soundtrack to an unspoken connection, em bodying the romance, confidence, and timeless elegance that make urban ballroom dancing such a unique and memorable experience.

While Kat possesses a distinctive style and vocal identity all her own, this groove pays tasteful homage to the smooth, infectious R&B sound that defined an era. Listeners may catch echoes of classics such as “Too Close” by Next, along with other iconic tracks that blended irresistible rhythms with soulful melodies. Rather than imitating those influences, the song embraces their spirit while allowing Kat’s artistry to shine through with authenticity and freshness.

Once again, producer Gayle Brannan demonstrates an exceptional ear for pairing the right musical landscape with Kat’s natural gifts. By crafting a production that complements rather than competes with her voice, Brannan creates the per fect setting for Kat’s rich, soulful vocal delivery to take center stage. The result is a seamless fusion of contemporary soul and nostalgic R&B influences, showcasing Kat’s emotional depth, vocal versatility, and undeniable ability to connect with listeners through every lyric and melody.

Kat Orlando’s lifelong passion for music began at just four years old, inspired by the 45s her grandmother and aunt brought from their restaurant jukeboxes. Early influences ranged from the flute mastery of Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson to the vocal powerhouses Aretha Franklin and Diana Ross. She studied with Denver Jazz Bebop saxophonist George Keith, honing her craft and developing her unmistakable tone and phrasing. As a songwriter, she draws heavily from legends like Stevie Wonder and Prince, infusing her music with a mix of social consciousness, emotion, and irresistible groove.

On stage, she’s a dynamic force—switching effortlessly from lead vocals to sax, flute, and harmonica, all while moving with the rhythm and engaging audiences with every beat.