Lady A’s Charles Kelley Releases Solo Single, A Goodbye To Alcohol

Lady A's Charles Kelley has just released a solo single. He says that "As Far As You Could" is his "goodbye letter to alcohol." Kelley co-wrote the redemptive ballad after a public decision to stop drinking and begin addiction treatment.

Charles said in a press release, "For me, the biggest word I've been holding onto is gratitude, not pride. I'm grateful. I finally see the light and am connecting with what life is all about. Some days are hard, but the good outweighs those bad moments. There's some beauty in all this, and I've had time to reflect, time to get healthy, time to write. I've probably written 50 songs this fall, and I feel like all of it was leading to this one song."

The song was co-written and produced with Lady A bandmate Dave Haywood and Jimmy Robbins. The ballad captures an inner conflict experienced by many, mixing sadness and serenity as Kelley recounts the steps along his path – both good and bad.

Lady A bandmates Haywood and Hillary Scott even considered putting their stamp on "As Far As You Could." They ultimately changed their minds. Dave Haywood said, "We were almost afraid that if we put a bunch of vocals on it, that might take away from the pain and authenticity of that singular vocal." Kelley added, "Hillary especially felt it was important for me to tell my story, kind of the same way she was able to do with 'Thy Will.' With their blessing, I'm putting this out, but it will live right alongside everything else we do."

According to the National Institutes of Health, about 10 percent of Americans will struggle with addiction at some point in their lives – and the ripple effects of those struggles touch almost everyone else. Ultimately, Kelley hopes sharing his story will help spread support and understanding for others.

If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

As one-third of Lady A, Kelley is scheduled to return to the stage for the U.K.'s C2C Festival in March of 2023. Lady A will then launch their anticipated REQUEST LINE TOUR, which begins with a triumphant two-night stand at Nashville's historic Ryman Auditorium April 14-15.