Multi-Grammy Award winner Carrie Underwood has teamed up with rock legends Papa Roach for a powerful new rendition of their hit single ‘Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark).' The collaboration, recorded in Nashville, aims to raise awareness for suicide prevention and mental health, with proceeds benefiting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).
The song, a heartfelt anthem, underscores the importance of mental health awareness. Papa Roach frontman Jacoby Shaddix expressed his admiration for Underwood's involvement: “We were humbled that Carrie was open to our mission. Hearing her voice in that recording session was incredible. Her vocal ability brings new meaning to our cause and will help people all over the globe. It’s an honor to have a ‘Rock Star' bring life to this track with us.”
Underwood, a longtime fan of Papa Roach, shared her excitement: “I’m such a huge fan of Jacoby and Papa Roach and was honored to be invited to record ‘Leave A Light On’ with them. It’s a beautiful song, and the message behind it and the band’s mission to shine a light on suicide prevention and mental health awareness has never been more important.”
‘Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark)' was initially performed live last year during Papa Roach's tour with Shinedown and Spiritbox. Each performance featured an emotional PSA from Shaddix and a pledge to donate to the AFSP on behalf of the concert attendees, culminating in a $155,000 donation by the tour's end.
Motivated by the song's impact, the band rebranded it as ‘Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark)' in conjunction with the AFSP’s ‘Talk Away The Dark' campaign. They committed to donating perpetual royalties from the song to AFSP, furthering their mission to support those affected by suicide.
The track has resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, becoming Papa Roach’s 12th #1 hit on the Rock charts and 26th Top-10 hit on the Alternative charts in the U.S. Their ongoing efforts have raised over $250,000 for the AFSP, with the total continuing to grow.
Bob Gebbia, CEO of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, praised the collaboration: “Papa Roach's ‘Leave a Light On/Talk Away the Dark' has tapped into a cultural moment where people are eager for the message that we all go through difficult times and that we can be there for each other. We thank Carrie Underwood for joining Papa Roach to record this new, inspiring duet version. These amazing artists are educating the public about the importance of taking care of our mental health and generously supporting AFSP's mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.”
