Ellen Hayes announces farewell album 'Behind My Eyes'

Gospel artist Ellen Hayes says her new album Behind My Eyes will be her final full-length release, arriving after more than three decades in ministry through music. The project blends gospel styles, original songs, family vocals, and tributes to longtime collaborators while Hayes says she will keep writing and releasing singles.

Why it matters: - Ellen Hayes is closing a major chapter in a career built on gospel music, choir leadership, songwriting, and community ministry. - Behind My Eyes is positioned as a personal statement about faith, endurance, and the experiences that shaped Hayes' life and work. - Hayes says her musical ministry will continue through writing, production, and future singles even after this final album.

What happened: - Ellen Hayes announced the release of her farewell album, Behind My Eyes, on Nov. 4, 2026. - The Detroit-based gospel artist described the project as her final full-length album. - Hayes called the album a testimony built from seasons of joy, heartbreak, victories, disappointments, and hope. - Hayes said the album reflects what people do not always see "behind my eyes."

The details: - Behind My Eyes includes traditional gospel, contemporary gospel, hymns, soul-infused worship, and inspirational originals. - The track list includes renditions of Precious Lord and The Old Account. - The album features a version of Thank You Lord, the song made famous by the late Walter Hawkins. - Hayes contributes original songs, including Count Your Blessings. - Count Your Blessings encourages listeners to focus on God's goodness through hardship. - Family members appear on the album with background and featured vocals. - The project also includes recordings honoring Darryl Smith and Darryl Dixon. - Hayes has spent more than 30 years in ministry through music. - Her career has included choir direction, vocal development, songwriting, producing, and arranging. - Hayes has released multiple recording projects and earned industry recognition. - She also served as a songwriter for the Gospel Music Workshop of America. - Hayes hosted Beats & Blessings Radio on WMKM 1440 AM. - Hayes founded Songs and Melodies Records LLC. - Her work has included mentoring aspiring artists and supporting communities through music and health advocacy. - More information is available at Ellen Hayes' website.

Between the lines: - The album title and concept frame the release as reflective rather than celebratory in a standard industry sense. - Hayes is using the farewell album to tie together her public ministry, personal testimony, and legacy as a mentor and creator. - The family vocals and tribute performances suggest the album is meant to serve as a multigenerational record of her musical circle, not just a solo project.

What's next: - Hayes said she will continue writing, producing, and releasing singles as she feels led. - Behind My Eyes stands as her last full-length album, but not the end of her music career. - Listeners can follow her updates through her official website.