I’ll Fly Away | Carson & Skylar McKee

I’ll Fly Away | Carson & Skylar McKee
My grandfather - “Papa” to us - passed away earlier this month, and I returned to North Carolina for his service. Due to COVID, only a small group of folks, mostly family, attended in person; others were encouraged to watch via livestream. Skylar and I sang…but we were off camera, so Mom asked us to make new videos of the songs we performed. Here’s one, a favorite of his. In honor and memory of Papa, who always encouraged my music career and enjoyed watching my channel.
Many thanks to Fran Morrison for arranging our use of the space, and to John Richardson for providing accompaniment on one of the videos.
I personally am not so religious these days - but this song was special to him, and this space is special to me, so I was very happy to be able to pay tribute to him in this way.
Skylar: / brotherbuddyfellow
Patreon: / carsonmckee
Instagram: / therealcarsonmckee
Guitars: Journey Instruments Overhead FirstClass FP412 & 1975 Martin D-18
Recorder: Zoom H2
Camera: Canon SL2 w/ 50mm f/1.8 lens
Shot in Cinestyle by Technicolor and corrected in Adobe Premiere Pro

[@regelemihai]

I'm a Jew. I'm not religious either. I don't even know what's the appeal to being religious in the general sense. All I know is that there's a loving creator God, and we need reconciliation with him. I've found it through Christ. I'm so happy your "papa" found it too! I'm so sorry for your loss, Carson. Hope one day you'll "fly away" to God's presence where your dear grandfather flew too. Praying for you and your family in this time of grief. You've blessed me *a lot* through your music, and I've only discovered your channel back in September. You're insanely talented! Hope you find peace in this tough season. Blessings to you and yours.

[@olddoc4430]

To Regelemihai , AMEN brother

[@cullenkerr6556]

My grandfather (papa) died in the summer of 2020 a few month before this video were posted. On his death bed the last word he spoke to me were how he wished that death would take him and that he wouldn’t have to suffer anymore. He was a high-church Catholic so a hymn like this wasn’t part of his tradition, but I wish I could have sang him this song. It really is beautiful and has helped me work though my grief. God bless you and I hope that whatever faith you have lost is returned to you a hundredfold.

[@lovemoretoday3147]

Your papa would tell you it's not religion he loved but his Savior. Praying for you! Beautiful song and you and Skylar did a great job. My condolences to you and your family.

[@charlesgreco5179]

I am a grandfather of four little ones who are 11 and 13 years old... I am 71 years old. Although I am not deeply religious, despite many sadnesses that life has given me, I also measure its great joys. "God has given me, and God will take me back". I am not about to leave, but on that day, like your Grandfather, I wish to hear beautiful voices singing. And if they are those of my grandchildren, then I am with my Creator. My sincere condolences (An admirer who lives in Belgium - in a small village of 3,000 souls called Crisnée).

[@chickenjojo]

That is about the most beautiful thing I've read on the internet in years. Thank you and all the very best to you, sir.

[@cadillacjack6308]

I am 70 years old with 2 grandsons, you said what is in my heart-Thanks

[@deborahchapman222]

I hope someone sings that at my funeral. It is sooo how I feel! Love hearing the Magnificent McKee Brothers play together. I am sure your Grandpa loved it and is so proud of you both. Although my family lives in Indiana now, my family’s roots were in South Carolina. My great great grandfather father migrated from South Carolina through the Cumberland Gap in 1837. With a rifle, frying pan and his Cherokee Bride on their only horse, he made his way to the Indiana Territory. They were escaping President Jackson’s soldiers. They were gathering up the Cherokee for the Trail of Tears. 😰. So glad grandma made it here safely. I think that’s why I love hearing you guys sing Appalachia music. When my clan got together, my Uncle Darrel would pull out his guitar and we would all sing the old songs. My aunts and uncles would take turns telling tall tales. I miss those family get togethers. They have all passed on. That’s ok. They have flown away to God’s celestial shore. I will join them one day. We will sing the old songs together again. 😊

[@MauroBrisola]

Papa would be proud. Cause his boys can play and sing as if they were in heaven.

[@billd3060]

This version of the song is literally the best I ever heard. You guys are truly talented. Beautifully done.

[@freakyrawen]

There is always something special about siblings singing together.

[@odinfromcentr2]

Wish this great cut could have come from better circumstances. Eternal rest grant him, O Lord.

[@oldndayzd9281]

More gospel please loved it 👊

[@frankokeeffe5399]

Very sorry for your loss guy's, may he rest in peace.

[@Chapoliin]

Sorry for your loss, He's watching you from heaven, Rest in peace .

[@cameronmowers1360]

I lost my grandfather recently to cancer and we often played guitar together. Before he passed he gave me his Taylor guitar and prayed with me, and I sat beside him as he faded. Condolences to you, this was one of his favorite songs as well.

[@carsonmckeemusic]

Much love to you - I’m also sorry for your loss. I’m thankful the music you shared gave you something that lived on.

[@cameronmowers1360]

@@carsonmckeemusic 🙏

[@nancejo]

I am glad you were there for him during his passing. It is one of the most heartbreaking, but spiritual enlightening events as I was there for both of my parent's passing. I hope his loss is met with the same connection to the spiritual faith of your family as I had.

[@havenhemmings3574]

Skylar keeps getting better and better. Carson can sing any kind of music. Great song.

[@mikem668]

It seems to me, Carson, that your performance of this song is holy, sacred, and religious all at the same time. To paraphrase Leonard Cohen, you and Papa cared for music, and though the song is more joyous than broken, it is a Hallelujah. I'm sorry for your loss.

[@michaelvaldivia6375]

Condolences Carson/Skylar. I’m a “Papa” myself. I’m sure he was proud of you two. You’re very talented. I follow you and Josh.

[@MrDaleStroud]

My mother in law passed away a few years ago, this was her favorite song and the last one she heard on this earth. Y’all did the song justice. Well Done.

[@tannerthompson6154]

Not much of a religious man, but this one song will always bring a tear. One of my grandfathers favorite songs. I wish I would have had the privilege to honor him at his funeral as well as you have here. My condolences to you and and your family. ❤

[@davidcoy3373]

It is a time that makes us pause and reflect. Life is like a fleeting mist. Soon we are gone. To have the sure and genuine certainty of heaven and it’s joy through God’s forgiveness are powerful every day in this life of trouble. Hope one day you find it, Carson.

[@ericray1442]

Sorry for your loss Carson and Skylar. As David said above, our faith is what gets us through these (and other) difficult times. It is songs such as this, that when sung in faith of that certainty, that the sweeter they are. You have been given a heavenly gift from your Merciful Creator. Thank you for sharing it Carson, Skylar.

[@Tropicalpisces]

What a wonderful sentiment.

[@gigistrus490]

I'm atheist, but doesn't detract from beautiful and moving performance by the two of you.

[@carsonmckeemusic]

As I mention in my description, I’m not particularly religious myself...but I was raised in the church you see behind me, and singing gospel-oriented classics like this one. And most importantly, I know that Papa would be happy with this “send-off”, so to speak, so it feels good to do it in tribute. Thank you.

[@francismallard5892]

@@carsonmckeemusic even atheists can appreciate the transcendent nature of art and beauty as charming and well executed as this. I’m so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing your family and art with us. I have a feeling Papa would be smiling warmly at your performance and this send off.

[@jeffevans9836]

The guy i work with don't like it when i say stuff like " That's a pretty church " because he knows i don't fall for any of them sales pitches , as he claims to despite the fact that we both attend church at about the same amount (-0- days per year lol ) , he steals and i don't , he's really just a turd of a person actually . I have got to say ...that was a pretty church song and ya'll tore it up as always ...surely you got that in one take lol . thanks for the video.

[@epiclasersharks1866]

God is real just so you know

[@jeffevans9836]

@@epiclasersharks1866 whatever you got to tell yourself to keep you from being a horrible person , m8 .

[@jessicacosiguitar]

I'm so sorry for your loss ... I also lost my grandfather over a month ago due to Covid .... it's a very bad situation, but music is a great friend to fight these dark times. Wonderful video, as always. 💝

[@carsonmckeemusic]

Thank you, and my condolences to you as well - I hope you're all doing as well as you can be.

[@luigybetis]

Same here, this times are so rough... Hope you guys are alright, everything will get better soon :)

[@davesworshipvids6121]

Music is a beautiful way to pay tribute to a loved one. I too lost my grandfather whom I also called papa back in September. He was a musician as I'm I so I preformed the song angel band which papa sang with grandma at his funeral.

[@jessicacosiguitar]

@@carsonmckeemusic I hope the same for you all too. Thank you Carson

[@jessicacosiguitar]

@@luigybetis Yes, times are tough, but I'm sure we'll all come out stronger!

[@jasonmurray807]

I'm a Christian and have a great appreciation for the meaning of this song. I also have a great appreciation of your talent and have enjoyed so many of your posts. I'm praying for your family in your loss. Thanks for sharing.

[@sourisvoleur4854]

Beautiful rendition of an old beauty. You two really sing beautifully together.

[@nashvegasnow]

My Grandfather was a Paw-Paw-- Alabama born and bred and so the w on the ends of Papa He was a good friend to me. Albert Brumley wrote this song and over 800 songs. He musta had a Papa in his life. Keep up the good work and works. I enjoy hearing you two.

[@ospe1991]

Beautiful rendition!

[@iMr_Jones]

A beautiful tribute by two of his grandchildren. Rest in Peace, Papa.

[@doorway1111]

Your Papa is smiling every time someone sends love up his wings listening to the voices of his Angel's sending him off❣

[@alexwilke7398]

Sorry for your loss.. My my, this song is both sad and happy.. how is that possible.. Great job

[@sophiafranz856]

This song was played at the end of my grandma’s funeral service. For some reason it just made me start bawling. I’m sorry for your loss, it’s always hard. This is a wonderful rendition.

[@D2Pilot]

Man, I feel for ya. My dad passed away in April and we weren't able to have a funeral for obvious reasons. I had this song and I Won't Have To Worry Anymore ready to sing, but the memorial/ash spreading a couple of months later got rained out and the wife and I weren't able to sing. I did get to play this in my church group with my son on harmonica and me on banjitar, so it was nice. Prayers for you and your family.

[@peggyfrakes2394]

So sorry for the loss of your father.

[@carsonmckeemusic]

My condolences to you as well - much love. Music helps makes these things just a little bit easier.

[@barryhaynes103]

My condolences for your loss ... gone but not forgotten ...

[@Tropicalpisces]

Ease for your loss. Heaven scored an angel. Rest in peace.

[@Tropicalpisces]

Y'all did beautifully. He is smiling on you. 😘

[@billmcentire9923]

So sorry for your loss. Heaven is a real place and he has won the race of life, and enjoying the reward!

[@carolynbrightfield8911]

Carson and Skylar. Thank you.

[@carolynbrightfield8911]

Jan 2022

[@angeloiodice9304]

These boys nailed it, as well as it has ever been nailed, this incredible classic Christian hymn.

[@themjohnsons]

I spent weeks searching youtube for different versions of this song and y’all were nowhere in the results. Then randomly today your video shows up in my feed. Great job, boys. Been listening to it on repeat. 🙌🏻👏🏻

[@matthiasborgmann164]

The new Everlys....!!!! Awesome...brothers...

[@Luna_and_Miles]

I'm so sorry for your loss of your grandfather, Carson. This is just beautiful.

[@ancil57]

One of my favorite hymns. Life is precious but the idea of an existence beyond this one is a comfort.

[@starrycrown]

This meant a lot. Thanks to all of our Papas who have flown, too. ❤️

[@JG-hy3sl]

Thank you for sharing this beautiful heart touching video of song and music from your heart! My sweet Mother went to be with the Lord Jan 17th 2017 and this was the song we all sang at her memorial ( Her favorite song) as we released 72 red heart balloons which was her age.

[@jean-michelzaidan5136]

We'll all fly away one day, hallelujah... Thanks from Avignon/ France

[@rockymtnmovies]

He's proud of you both. So sweet. What a nice tribute to him.

[@cds1520b]

I asked a couple of my cousins to sing and play this at my father's funeral by the third chorus the whole building was singing, still smile when I think of that send off.

[@thebouncinghearts]

Music seems to transcend everything. I'm not religious in the traditional sense but some things are moving and inspirational on a spiritual level, this is one of them.

[@lastofthemohicans1]

Love me some crooked suit gospel. Beautiful rendition, gentlemen!

[@aircap63]

Terrific rendition of this old classic you guys! My heart's out to you and your family. This song really hit me because it was my mom's favorite that was sung at her funeral 50 years ago. She died of cancer when I was a boy and I still remember her singing this song to me when I was little! You both sang it beautifully!! Brought tears to my eyes. As always, I love the stuff that you do, both separately and collaboratively.

[@yarslowmodelrailway1]

Papa would be proud of you both

[@tommymoon306]

We all miss those cheerleaders in our lives. I’m glad for the rest of us that your Papa encouraged you to keep putting out music. You have blessed us all.

[@benjimandover8072]

I have to really think old time gospel is yours to sing unto the heavens and soothe the savage beast...thanks 😇👍

[@steveroberts8719]

Old-Time Country Gospel at its best. Thanks Guys!

[@carolyncrider8217]

My grandfather's favorite song. So sorry. Hard to say goodbye.

[@rockykoast7065]

Sorry for your loss. I'm not religious, but it's good to cherish a life that was and to remember our dear departed.

[@Kobor_Tamas]

My sincere condolences guys. May he rest in peace.

[@JeffRebornNow]

Thank you for sharing the story of your grandfather's passing. My father passed away on October 16, 2020, and we opted not to have a memorial service. We didn't think it was right to force a lot of old people to gather together during a deadly pandemic. Besides, what's the point if people can't even come up to you and hug you or hold your hand and express their condolences? This pandemic has robbed us of so much.

[@im-already-tired-tomorrow]

condolences and what you said.

[@kentonyoderii3443]

I can only say More old school worship music please . God bless you

[@et5222]

Papa flyin' away with a big smile from you two.... Blessings!

[@ronbrummett]

The brothers, the harmonies, the presentation, the message, the love!

[@riccardotralli76]

My deepest condolences 😢 I'm sure your Pa is looming down on you two proudly and smiling.

[@relic934]

Sorry for your loss ,your papa had to be very proud of you boys, God Bless

[@julianlavergne]

I lost my brother in 2020. I know how sad this can be. May your papa rest in peace and may you find peace in your music. I know that I find peace in music every day.

[@OneGeekStudios]

This was the song my grandpa asked to be sung at his funeral nearly 20 years ago. I still think about him. Sorry for your loss too!

[@moose7472]

What greater gift is there for a family, than the knowledge of your own salvation? And you know he is, but will you join him there? It’s not about religion, it’s about faith. And I hope you see him again someday! Y’all are highly talented! Beautiful!

[@pdk9capt104]

One of my favorites. Beautifully done. Sorry for your loss. Rest in peace “Papa”

[@allank8497]

Sorry for your loss. Excellent rendition. Ranks right up there with Mississippi John Hurt's

[@jajs283]

Well you both did a fine job on this old gospel song. I never thought I’d here gospel from you guys what a treat. Thank you

[@davidwearne4176]

God knows best. Beautiful tribute gentlemen

[@KnockManJo]

Beautiful, art truly has the power to ease and give deeper meaning to our losses; your grandfather sounds like a delightful man, watching and supporting your youtube journey. Take care

[@stevencoe5379]

Great job boys, papa would be so proud of you.

[@williammartin2275]

So very sorry for your loss of your grandfather. Rest assured that as you guys were singing, he was looking down with the biggest grin on his face. He is safe in God's love. The song is well done and a beautiful tribute ❤

[@Ramjet1997]

My condolences for your loss....May he RIP.....

[@MEXPRESS02]

THANK YOU CARSON MCKEE

[@alhollywood6486]

I lost my dog today after 13 years. Thanks for this.

[@Tropicalpisces]

Lost my cat 3/27/21... she was 16. We were together 11 years. This song does help. 🙏 I hope your pain diminishes but .. I keep happening on new ways of missing her. I hope it's a bit easier for you but know you aren't alone as a pet parent in grief. 🥺😘

[@adrianwoodhouse3774]

What a beautiful way to say goodbye to someone you love. R.I.P.

[@larryadams458]

I'm very sorry for your loss. You honor him in song. God bless.

[@neilmartin4238]

Clearly I'm a little late to the party here but this is the BEST version of this incredible song I have ever heard!! Love and peace from London.

[@kmiller770]

Grace and peace to you and your family. "I'll Fly Away" was my father's favorite song. Thanks for honoring your Papa and your mother so beautifully.

[@im-already-tired-tomorrow]

Sad for your loss,happy for what you have,guys.Thanks.

[@jedalbano2014]

Beautiful harmony! Thank you both!

[@jeffm5808]

Sorry to hear about you Papa passing away Carson and Skylar . nice tribute to your Papa.

[@predator92lol007]

Beautiful that you that you also performed in front of camera for your mother! I bet this will give her some comfort. My condolences.

[@thebiker3895]

Guys that was magic

[@stephendawg1]

So sorry for your loss. It’s wonderful to have the support of our families when we’re young and exploring our giftings. I always tell my friends, “Well, my grandma said I was the best singer she ever heard.” 😉 I’ve been a guitar player in church now for 49 years. I still can’t get them to let me lead singing. 🤷🏻‍♂️😂 I truly appreciate your talent, men! Blessings!

[@hanaxleigh3]

My condolences to you and your family Carson. Your music is so beautiful and I am sure your Papa was very proud of you and your amazing talent.

[@librarianrobert7426]

So sorry! He must have been so utterly proud of both of you!

[@lucasberglund5358]

Very sorry for your loss! Your grandfather would be proud of you boys. Hope you find your faith again.

[@profdave2861]

Beautifully done. Sorry for your loss, brothers McKee. When the time is right,.celebrate you Papa for a life well lived. Sincere condolences.

[@hillbillydranyam7915]

Remember a few of his odd or funny sayings and incorporate them into y'all's vocabulary... I do this and it brings a smile when I think of my father, I hear his voice as my conscience everyday. I ask myself what he would've done when I find need of his advise... It helps fellas... Much love and deepest condolences from upstate SC. Stay 💪

[@carsonmckeemusic]

That’s great advice, and we already do...we have many good Papa sayings and inside jokes in our family 😌

[@itsa67]

So sorry for your loss - I know your grandfather was proud of you guys. You did such a great job with that wonderful hymn! I believe the words to be true and while there is a lot don't understand about God's plan, I feel comfortable that there is a life eternal for your grandfather. I love all your videos so keep them coming!

[@tonyleeglenn]

Precisely the way this song should be performed. Sounds great. Awesome job guys!

[@thomasfries6453]

Very beautiful! God bless and thank you.

[@alecoppegard3034]

Sang this at my dads funeral, I remember playing and singing this as he was in his hospital bed and the smile on his face was incredible. I’ve been watching you guys for awhile and seeing this pop up on my feed was amazing! Hope to see more of these old gospel tunes!!

[@warrenspice]

We here in Boston send our love.

[@denichyb]

Great song, Guys! So talented boys..... sorry for your lost :( greetings from Brazil

[@bruceringrose7539]

Condolences Carson and Skyler, I'm sure your "Papa" is resting easy and smiling at his two very talented grandsons!!! I also have no doubt that Johnny Cash and all of the Nashville giants that have sadly left us are applauding with him!

[@pappyfiddle]

that hammerin' on and hammerin' off is perfect, not to mention the harmonies and the "spacegazing" at the end

[@paulregan8102]

Sorry for your loss. Your Papa Is still with in your hearts and in your beautiful music.

[@nancysnyder2527]

I’m sorry for your loss...What a beautiful send!

[@CrawfishParish]

Gosh i love it! Sorry for your loss....

[@cjarrett4779]

Great for you to honor your grandfather with song. You guys do music so well. I enjoyed this, as well as your other posts. Carson, God has obviously given you a talent and love for music, along with the desire and effort to make it so enjoyable for me to watch you play. I would encourage you to seek the God of creation.