Michael Ray, Craig Morgan and Darryl Worley are helping pay tribute to their friend, Jeff Carson, who passed away last year. The singer became a police officer in 2009, but had been making a return to music. At the time of Carson’s sudden passing, he was working on a new album, recording some of his biggest hits, including “The Car,” “Not On Your Love” and more.
Ray, Morgan and Worley lent their voices to the forthcoming project, titled 448 in honor of Carson’s badge number.
“We were absolutely thrilled to work with Jeff Carson and to be a small part of his legacy,” Justin Ward, CEO of Encore Music Group, says of the project. “We always wanted to do right by Jeff and know that he would be pleased that this album will ultimately be released for fans and friends to enjoy… But, I know he would be absolutely thrilled with the idea that it will be used to support his fellow police officers and community. Jeff was a special soul, and it was a privilege to know him.”
When Carson passed away, Ray was one of several artists who spoke out about the loss of both his fellow singer and close friend.
“I’ve tried being ok and thinking you’re in a better place but this doesn’t seem real!” Ray said. “I hope you know getting to sing ‘The Car’ with you will always be one of my most cherished moments. I love you, man. Watch out for us brother, we’re gonna need it!”
Carson’s widow has no doubt that her husband, with whom she shared their son, Dayton, would be pleased with the 448 project.
“Jeff was so excited for the release of this album and just being in the studio again,” she says. “To have this music after his passing means the most to both Dayton and me—he is as great as he ever was! I want to thank everyone involved for believing in Jeff… even now; my love!!”
See a track listing below. On Friday, April 7, fans will be able to download or stream “I Can Only Imagine,” as well as pre-order the record. 448 will be released on May 12. The record will also be available in CD form, with a $25 donation to AdoptaCop.com.
448 Track Listing:
1. Yeah Buddy
2. Not On Your Love – featuring Darryl Worley
3. The Car – featuring Michael Ray
4. Holdin’ Onto Something
5. Butterfly Kisses
6. Almost Never Loved You
7. Real Life (I Was Never The Same Again) – featuring Craig Morgan
8. I Can Only Imagine
9. Shine On
