Celeb Secrets Country: What was the significance behind you singing “Leave It There” at Joey’s funeral in March?
Bradley: “Joey+Rory recorded that song on their Inspired album, and when Rory asked me to sing that particular song he said that he would play Joey’s favorite version of it when she’d be having an especially tough day, and the song–the lyrics–would seem to ease her. Later I learned that it was her request that I sing that song at her graveside service. I believe she wanted to send the message of that song to her family and friends once she’d passed from this life. Although we didn’t understand why things had happened the way they did, her wish was for us, the ones left behind, to “leave it there” at the feet of Jesus…give our sorrow and sadness to Him to help us face the days and years ahead.”
Celeb Secrets Country: Your latest album, Call Me Old Fashioned, is fantastic! Do you have any favorite songs off of it or songs that have a deeper meaning than someone would simply assume?
Bradley: “Thank you so much! “Sing Me to Heaven” was written by two dear friends of mine–Shawn Camp and Buddy Cannon. A few years ago we all lost another dear friend to cancer–Ann Soyars. Ann was a huge music fan and supporter of musicians and songwriters; so when she got sick and couldn’t come to shows around Nashville, all of the music community came to her. We all went to her hospital room, and later to her home, to sing songs and share time with her…from Chris and Morgane Stapleton and Dierks Bentley to Bobby Bare, John Prine…the list goes on and on. We all loved Ann and she loved us. As someone would come to her bedside, she’d say, “I don’t want you to be sad…just sing something for me!” After her passing, Buddy’s daughter Melonie sent me a song that Buddy and Shawn had just written called “Sing Me to Heaven.” It could very well be my sentiment or anybody’s, but it was written as somewhat of a tribute to a very special lady.”
Celeb Secrets Country: Why do you think people should listen to Call Me Old Fashioned?
Bradley: “Simply put, because it’s filled with great songs. When making a new record I always try to record the very best songs I can–songs that have a message and that speak to me. I try to listen as if I were a fan buying the record myself…would I love the songs? Country music was built on GREAT songs. Songs about real life…happy times, sad times. I think people will be able to relate to the songs on Call Me Old-Fashioned and find hope in the messages they bring.”
