Ellen Hayes announces farewell album 'Behind My Eyes'

Ellen Hayes has announced Behind My Eyes, a farewell full-length album set as a personal testament to her decades in gospel music and ministry. The project blends classic and contemporary gospel styles, features family vocals, and will be followed by continued singles and production work.

Why it matters: - Behind My Eyes closes Ellen Hayes’ full-length album catalog after more than 30 years in gospel ministry. - The release also signals that Hayes is not leaving music entirely. She plans to keep writing, producing, and releasing singles. - The album adds a personal capstone to a career built on choir direction, songwriting, arranging, production, mentoring, and community work.

What happened: - Ellen Hayes announced the release of her farewell album, Behind My Eyes. - The album is described as a deeply personal body of work centered on faith, perseverance, worship, and grace. - Hayes said the project is her testimony and reflects what she has seen, endured, celebrated, and overcome. - Hayes said the album will be her final full-length release.

The details: - The album includes traditional gospel, contemporary gospel, hymns, soul-infused worship, and original inspirational songs. - Track highlights include Precious Lord, The Old Account, and a version of Thank You Lord, originally made famous by Walter Hawkins. - Hayes wrote original material for the album, including the single Count Your Blessings. - Count Your Blessings is positioned as a message to stay focused on God’s goodness during hardship. - Family members contribute background and featured vocals across the project. - The album also recognizes the musical contributions of Darryl Smith and Darryl Dixon on several recordings. - Hayes has spent more than three decades in ministry through music. - Her career includes directing choirs, developing vocalists, writing, producing, and arranging songs. - Hayes has released multiple recording projects and earned industry recognition. - Her other roles include songwriter for the Gospel Music Workshop of America, host of Beats & Blessings Radio on WMKM 1440 AM, founder of Songs and Melodies Records LLC, and mentor to aspiring artists. - Hayes has also been involved in community work through music and health advocacy.

Between the lines: - The farewell framing suggests Hayes wants the album to serve as a legacy statement, not just a final release. - By pairing classic gospel selections with original songs, Behind My Eyes is designed to connect longtime listeners with a more intimate personal narrative. - Hayes’ emphasis on continued singles indicates a transition from album cycles to a lighter, ongoing release strategy.

What's next: - Hayes will continue releasing singles as she feels led. - The album is available through the artist's website. - More updates may also appear through Olivia Long PR.