If I Could Only Fly (Blaze Foley Cover)

An impromptu evening cover of Blaze Foley à la Merle Haggard.
Patreon: / carsonmckee
Instagram: / therealcarsonmckee
Guitar: Eastman E20D
Recorder: Zoom H2
Camera: Canon SL2 w/ 50mm f/1.8 lens
Shot in Cinestyle by Technicolor and corrected in Adobe Premiere Pro

[@goodphotoideas]

I had never heard the song before, in fact never heard of Blaze Foley. The only thing I can say is, this is absolutely beautiful.

[@Bluesphan]

Same...but somehow it sounds like something I've heard forever...

[@featheredcoyote5477]

@@Bluesphan now that's a beautiful response.....Ben Haggard also does a fantastic job at this. Such a beautiful tune

[@momusicfan]

@@featheredcoyote5477 I like Mo Pitney singing it too.

[@featheredcoyote5477]

@@momusicfan me too

[@kathiebogue8579]

Never heard it, my God this is good

[@paulmichaud7565]

Sometimes you cover a tune, sometimes you get inside it. Carson got inside this one and sings it from the inside out.

[@Bluesphan]

Well put...very poetic... and appropriate😎

[@bryanwest3639]

​@@Bluesphan Well said

[@kathiebogue8579]

Boy are you right

[@jurzeejozee41]

When I feel the hairs on the back of my neck stand up; when my insides tremble so that my eyes tear up, I know I’m listening to an exceptional talent. What a fine voice and soul you have, Carson .

[@RickMartinYouTube]

same here

[@jeffreyevans9431]

Get a room & jump in line , hahaahahaa !

[@jamesdrake8058]

Ah, the talent to be enjoyed; found by accident, now a fan for life.

[@CrustyAbsconder]

Imagine that there are a thousand people randomly scattered about the planet, who in December of 2019, anxiously look forward to seeing a new performance of Carson McKee on KZbin, and then imagine in December of 2039, that the number will be in the millions. I would bet that Willie Nelson was this talented at that age.

[@dlbstl]

Wow! I bet you are right! Smooth and rich voice.

[@ChitFromChinola]

Carson sings a lot better than Willie. :-). But, Willie is Willie . . .

[@mrjasondylan]

@@ChitFromChinola you may be right but the big difference with Willie is as with most of them ol country guys he wrote some of the greatest songs ever put down on paper as did Kris Kristofferson and Johnny Cash none of them had what you'd call smooth voices easy on the ear but boy could they write and also they sang like they meant it straight from the heart. In Nashville there's a thousand amazing voices and guitar pickers but it's having the songs too that really make you stand out. Not for one second taking anything away from Carson the guy is amazing just saying I've been to Nashville enough times to know you need it all to make it there but from what I've seen Carson and his friends are doing pretty good on there own terms without Nashville it's all glam pop crap there these days anyway.

[@hamricklp]

I just keep coming back to this one. If I could like it a thousand times I would. So good, Carson.

[@jamesedwards2687]

Carson, a quick comment on your version of "If I could only fly". My personal favorite country singer is Merle Haggard. Of all the versions I've listened to on KZbin, YOURS is the best. Thanks for giving an old man hours of beautiful music.

[@Ditch1221]

I have to say that Carson’s performance of this song is the best I’ve ever heard. The vocal is just perfect. The guitar work, fits like a glove. Again, fantastic on all aspects of this. I can’t stop listening. 👍

[@bryanwest3639]

First heard this song from Merle Haggard. This is better and I love the Hag.

[@johnd1727]

Absolutely agree. In fact I did a complete Google Search and watched every artist the search came up with - there were dozens - and of course Blaze Foley himself. No contest - absolutely no contest - even with the original artist Blaze Foley. That is amazing. Unique. I have been trying to get something out of my attempts to play guitar for decades - I get a certain amount of satisfaction but I simply lack the talent necessary. Carson McKee makes it seem so easy and natural. I keep looking for the devil offering a contract at every crossroad. He never shows. Yeah..whatever.

[@jdr8866]

Carson, this was hauntingly sung. You have mastered emotional transference to the highest form of artistry. Your performance of this song is absolutely devastating.

[@BobJJ9999]

Seriously! I can’t stop listening to this. Such a superb version. You’re voice is silky smooth and rich. Keep them coming and thank you.

[@briancannon8729]

This guy is one of the best musicians I've ever heard.

[@Nómada-Loco]

verdad

[@imaginado4534]

And one of the most velvet sounding voices out there...

[@melandaverywilliams3288]

My dear friend Carson, I lost my wife December 26 2018 this song was just what I needed. Thank you Merry Christmas and have a great new year

[@evanliveshere]

stranger;

[@garypaquin9571]

Condolences to a person I have never met. Music has healing powers when done sincerely and brilliantly. It can take away some of the pain. Mr. McKee, your voice is a marvel as is your taste in music. Please do a song with Molly Tuttle.

[@rdstroud1]

This is the best performance of this song that I have ever heard. Carson managed to out do both Blaze Foley and the legend, Merle Haggard. Simple as that. I have heard renditions of it by many talented singers, but Carson's effort is above and beyond. If I could only..sing it like he does.

[@pawellewap1331]

You're right. Marvelous !

[@bryanwest3639]

Loved this song since I first heard Merle sing it. Carson sings it even better. My favorite version

[@forbidden_knowledge9691]

Foley's is still best by far. Pure raw emotion kzbin.info/www/bejne/kKmzaJ6oq8x1e5o

[@forbidden_knowledge9691]

Or even this kzbin.info/www/bejne/bGq8dIudi8msiJY

[@erict9544]

Thank you Carson for taking the time to play and record this beautiful song.

[@tomheadley8749]

This song made me cry one time, the original, listening to it and contemplating it's meaning. This is a flawless and beautiful performance of this song. I can't get enough of Carson and his guitar.

[@steveames5797]

Your show with Josh in Boston recently was amazing, and now I'm having fun digging into your solo vids. So great to see a young guy playing Blaze Foley stuff. Faith in humanity restored.

[@odinfromcentr2]

Your ability to change my state of mind with a song is astounding. Don't ever let the ticks at the record companies taint your passion.

[@mcmurphy664]

I don’t know if its only me but always when im playing new video from you, or Josh I Don’t know song but I’m never dissapointed. Thank you for introducing me to new genres and tunes Love

[@1105renrut]

As Jeff & I sat here listening to this for the first time, he said, “what a beautiful voice he has” & I must agree...especially on a song like this that is absolutely perfect for it. The richness is so pure and natural. You have such a wonderful gift. Thank you for sharing it with all of us. Merry Christmas!

[@megamarraf]

I absolutely love this guy, I knew him with the “Don’t Let Me Down” by the Beatles cover, and since then, I’ve seen many videos He deserves many more views, he’s amazing

[@ErnChildofJesus]

Oh wow what a beautiful cover of this most beautiful song. God Bless you Carson . Please continue to make beautiful music that lifts the Spirit. Thank you. Can’t stop playing this song.

[@owentyler7295]

Carson you definitely nailed it. Willie and Haggard and others have tried, but you put something that can't be explained. I tear up each time I play your version. Just a beautiful, sensitive song. Thank you. God bless your efforts.

[@timlowery7156]

Best cover, hands down!

[@calebbhawkins]

Those Eastman guitars are no joke!

[@antonyalumkal1526]

Yes, really nice tone.

[@phil2785]

Hey Carson ..Just lost a very close friend to cancer yesterday ..you bring joy to my heart ..a special gift you have been given ..thank you Bro

[@EarToTheGroundMusic]

I enjoyed this a year ago, but now... after listening to Blaze's version many times through the distance and tumult of 2020... and watching the Netflix film on Blaze's life... I have a new found appreciation for what you've done here. You resurrected a classic. We are indebted to you.

[@fozzledoff1]

It really refreshing to hear someone sing a beautiful country song without the over-done Bro-Country voice. Thankyou.

[@PurpleOwl79]

One of my favorite songs ever, Blaze Foley was going to be one of the greatest songwriters, Merle did the song justice like few could. You are one of the few Carson. Much love brother.

[@keithwigley1256]

2.18 am here in Britain ...with my stray cat Elvis and rain against the window Payne ...fine sounding song and vocals Carson....all the best now...

[@fredtaylor48]

I have never felt so moved and cried so much listening to any musician - ever😀 thank you Carson

[@edphillips8071]

A very nice cover of one of the greatest love songs ever written. Blaze wrote such honest lyrics and this rendition does it justice.

[@logberg.]

Carson, I come back to this video so often I think many of these 292k views are mine. Thank you for posting this beautiful rendition of such a raw, honest song. I lost my mother a year and a half ago, and the way you sing this song bring tears to my eyes like Blaze cannot. I feel some strong feelings in your music. I hope all is well with you and with whatever healing you are experiencing I wish you the best. - Love from the Maritimes in Canada

[@alanternworld7952]

So beautiful. Thank you for spreading goodness into the world, there is never enough. Your belief is comforting and life affirming.

[@kathidori8504]

You are surely one of the better singers in this world. This video shows and lets hear, truly and simple, without a high-tech studio, headphones and makeup, a beautiful performance of a beautiful song . Tank you for sharing.

[@sadelawal739]

Still so so good. Glad to have found this gem again tonight while unwinding after my first day of grad school. It brings me back to the simple, happier times. Thanks for a great cover, Carson

[@joeiscoffee]

I've become an addict of this song. Particularly of your cover, Carson. Happily there is no cure. Waiting for more.

[@schoonerdog44]

I can't stop listening to it either. So simple and beautiful and powerful.

[@miltonpound763]

One of the best songs ever written. Great performance.

[@BDFAN65]

Beautiful cover of this Blaze Foley song. Love it and liked 👍👍👍👍👍Lloyd :)

[@skotskiable]

This is my favorite version of this song yet. Second favorite is Blaze, so far. I have loved Haggard’s music for years, but on this song you are my favorite. You put more heart and soul into it than even Blaze himself.

[@TheVeek192]

You do know that Blaze wrote it, right?

[@skotski54]

Of course I knew that. Doesn't change my opinion though.@@TheVeek192

[@vksmith888]

Carson has a truly amazing voice, a singer that can make a song better then the original

[@fudrucker5469]

Masterful performance of one of the most beautiful songs ever written.

[@CSLameal11]

Whoever it is you were singing to is one lucky woman and/or person! Hope to see you in Brooklyn soon!!

[@kevinbriand1052]

A truly incredible cover of Blaze’s song. So well done. You just get better and better man. Haunting...

[@mikatuokkola2379]

You owned that man! The rhythm of your delivery reminds me a lot of Willie Nelson somehow, awesome job.

[@roytee3127]

Willie Nelson! You're right!

[@andibara5432]

hi carson,iam from indonesia maybe someday if covid 19 would be the end.please comin to my country indonesia

[@cathygordon1690]

This is the second song I love to hear you sing .... the first being Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain ..... I could listen to you beautiful voice 24/7 ..... I wish I could meet you someday and you would just sing for me .... I just can’t explain how unique and soothing your voice is .... please continue singing and posting your songs 💕💕

[@retiredyeti5555]

Loads of obscure songs out there that very few today have ever heard. Thanks for covering this one by Blaze Foley.

[@lenanovotny]

So beautiful ... I have no words. Been listening to this for day now.

[@stix2you1]

Beautiful rendition of this fantastic song. Music don't get much better than this.

[@therustyspoke]

Wow Carson...AMAZING butter smooth vocals! IMO you have become one of the best male vocalists out there period! Proud of you man!

[@angiesiddall9563]

I saw Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson and Ray Price in concert. I really love Merle Haggard's music and songs too. Beautiful rendition Carson and a nice guitar picking style. Keep them coming. I've heard a lot of these songs you're singing in this playlist. You really do them well in your style and compassion you put in them makes it perfect.

[@jeffgaumond4250]

Hag recorded this song written by Blaze Foley. Many people think Hag wrote it, unfortunately he didn't do enough to dispel that misconception.

[@angiesiddall9563]

@@jeffgaumond4250 Thank you for the correction of the writer's name of this song sir.

[@amaralroberto4999]

Wow what a beautiful job. Carson, you're refining your technique, posting your voice wonderfully, and choosing your repertoire with mastery. Big hug from the people of Mooca Sao Paulo Brazil. Merry Christmas to you and to JTG and all the friends who kindly send us these wonderful songs.

[@sunnysmilessunshine4060]

posted 15 mins. ago & 212 views already! Carson: I don't want to say we Live for your posts, but it SURE IS NICE when You do~ Excellent choice. You do it so well~ THANK YOU for Gifting us! Merry Christmas Carson to you & May your 2020 be Brighter than all the rest~

[@rucker9057]

You never disappoint Carson, well played and well sung. Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!!!

[@Amy-gr3xc]

Sometimes the right song finds you when you need it most. Well done- singing, production, everything. This will be on repeat this evening. Merry Christmas to you and your family and friends.

[@TheOnlineBusker]

Hard to believe you get such amazing quality sound just with the little Zoom...whoever mixes/masters these videos is doing a cracking job!!

[@dolledimmi]

Voice of an angel...

[@robertwilliams-wd6cp]

Wow again , hope I live long enough to see all the great talent hit the big time , you are on the right path .

[@2peter1v2]

What a beautiful, mellow tone you have in your voice. I have never heard this song before, but I like your version better than any other.

[@RobertsAdventure]

This is incredible. I found it coming from Blaze Foley originals and trying to see if anyone was still playing his songs. Amazing. Thank you. Thank you.

[@titouantillier7691]

Pffooww.. So relaxing that I felt my brain melt a little bit. That was awesome. Thank you Carson

[@PB200559]

This beautiful cover of this beautiful song compels me to keep coming back to hear it one more time. Superb.

[@cbocker]

Carson, thanks for sharing the golden gift of your voice this Christmas!

[@tinkercarmack2393]

EVERY SONG I HEAR CARSON SING HE NAILS EVERYONE HE SINGS FOR US TO GO TO THE SPECIAL PLACE THE SONG TAKES US TO.. GOD BLESS.

[@ronmaxwell797]

Carson your voice is like a great red wine that only improves with time, you just get better and better!

[@donchambers8772]

Dang, Carson. So beautiful. So grateful to be able to listen to you.

[@davidjohnson-fo7ze]

This has been my favorite song for about twenty years now. Real good job.

[@dennispope8299]

Carson, you reach me in a very deep place emotionally (not only this song, but others as well). Don't ever stop doing what you do...you are a gifted and wonderfully talented artist. God speed.

[@davidpearce9150]

Christ Carson you are so very special, only wish I could be around a little longer to watch you grow .

[@aircap63]

Carson, been a fan for years now. I've had this song on my list for a long time and always enjoy listening to it. Today I decided to listen to a whole bunch of other musicians play it, including the original, and I have to say yours is the best! Hands down!

[@fransoudevrielink2316]

The more i listen to this song the more i like it. Again a great performance of you Carson.

[@antoinerinie]

What a singer... That's so beautiful. Thanks Carson

[@marvinbyrom1491]

Carson, this world needs the gifts that have been given to you. I'll trust that your decisions are well guided. Thanks so very much for honing your craft.

[@manriq47]

Yep, another superb posting, Carson. Your vocal talent just blows me away. You find a way to make the songs you cover sound as fresh as the day original artists released them. Like I said, superb. All the best ~ Mark

[@4Motion54]

Hello Carson, I was breathing in.... and stopped breathing for the first Seconds... because it is so beautiful, heartbracking, your voice is exceptional. What a nice day to start and end with this video from you. Have a wonderful christmas, take care from Germany.

[@neiljones2264]

A voice of velvet. Awesome.

[@manfredhuschitt3469]

Merry Christmas, Carson! And greatings to Josh, Reina, Toni and all the other friends! 🎄God bless you all! Best wishes from Bavaria

[@dawnmanser2969]

Oh my dear, you have a new fan in me. Your voice is beautiful and smooth like a welcomed soft breeze on a warm summer day. Thank you for sharing your gift. This is my favorite version of this song as of today. Blaze and Merle would be proud.

[@musicmanhunter1]

Best cover EVER WOW Carson what a GREAT job!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@jackvegas3705]

Beautiful. Just beautiful, and amazingly, you just keep getting better! Ya made my night. Thanks.

[@jeffgaumond4250]

Wow, first Guy Clark now Blaze Foley, you're on a roll, Carson. This is such a great song, and you do it very well, at least as good as Hag.

[@sunshinequeen22]

Carson: You have a very big fan in the UK. I love your voice and you never disappoint.

[@momusicfan]

I have heard Mo Pitney sing this song several times. You did a great job. Thanks for posting it.

[@SuperRickflick]

Just listened again, and I'm feeling the warmth in this. Excellent.

[@canadice1999]

This was wonderful Carson. I love the many facets of your voice. I am so sorry I couldn't make it up to Buffalo again to see you and Josh this time. Hope you had a good crowd!

[@GavinDingwall]

Every song you touch is pure gold. Another stunning performance. Thank you. Best, Gavin

[@Scanjoon]

I try to never compare singer vs singer when singing a particular song. This is a 10!

[@holysnikees98]

Stunning, absolutely beautiful! The perfect video to drink my coffee to this morning, thank you sir!

[@musicmanhunter1]

back again really touched by this version thanks Carson

[@darlenekovach502]

I must have listened to this one a hundred times. Your voice is low, wistful and absolutely beautiful. You captured the spirit of these lyrics perfectly. I enjoy all your videos but this one is just a cut above.

[@mikekendall5835]

I hosted an open mic in Los Angeles for 6+ years.. Some say the best open mic ever in LA... I had a hell of a lot of talent walk through the door.. And nobody had a voice of perfection as yours... Just remarkable.. Congrats...

[@liwmld]

GOD has blessed you Carson. one day you will fly to HIM. much love.

[@mel00w]

My new favorite; thank you for introducing me to Blaze Foley. I have tickets to your Orlando show in March and am looking forward to seeing you and Josh live.

This is calming, thank you Carson

[@chopperguth]

Killer job! It's great to see Blaze's songs getting the accolades they deserve. P.S. I hear a little Willie Nelson in your tone:)

[@PamelaContiGlass]

Thank you Carson, you and Josh have been the soundtrack for our christmas. we appreciate you.

[@bendudley5415]

I’ve heard Merle Haggard, Blaze Foley, and others sing this. Yours tops them all. You nailed it.

[@jonwoll6586]

he is just so good. have you seen the high school song with josh? i think it was something like the comedy of the good ship essex? wish i would have gone to school with this generation.

[@daniellay3081]

Simply beautiful

[@NavyVetJack]

Carson you are really good! Keep them coming. I see your trying to cut down on those weird facial expressions.

[@clayallen4354]

easy now Ben!!! lol

[@Northyorkspaul]

would never say better than Blaze but fantastic...

[@colinkobel2868]

Maybe the greatest song you have ever done! Great rendition!

[@jackk364]

Thank you for sharing your passion and talent with us. Such fantastic musicianship.

[@Offenbacher64]

Very nice song and a beautiful voice. Thank you very much and have a nice Christmas. Greetings from Germany

[@AndyGlover]

Very nice cover, I love the setup - that zoom captures great audio, excellent production value.

[@edwill62]

One of my most favorite tunes...this is great

[@williamd3082]

I've listened to every song you've ever sung on KZbin and this is my absolute favorite. I cannot understand why you have not gone professional with that voice and guitar skills.

[@jeffgaumond4250]

He has, he and BFF Josh Turner record and tour as The Other Favorites.