Ned LeDoux Sings with Father Chris on New Album “Safe Haven”: ‘This Is the Last Thing That He Ever Recorded’ (Exclusive)

Ned LeDoux Collaborates with Father Chris on New Album ‘Safe Haven’

Country musician Ned LeDoux recently released his latest album, ‘Safe Haven’, which pays homage to both his late father, Chris LeDoux, and his toddler daughter, Haven. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Ned expressed his belief that music serves as a sanctuary for people during challenging times. He shared, “I believe that everybody in this world has a place where they need to go when things get a little too heavy, and for me, music has always been that place.”

It has been two decades since the country music industry mourned the loss of Chris LeDoux, a beloved father and rodeo champion to Ned LeDoux. Ned reflected on his father’s legacy, imagining that Chris would still be actively creating music if he were alive today. Despite the laughter shared over memories, there remains a solemn undertone whenever Ned speaks of his father.

Ned LeDoux’s album, ‘Safe Haven’, serves as a poignant tribute to Chris, featuring a significant collaboration between father and son on the single “One Hand in the Riggin'”. This track includes a vocal recording of Chris LeDoux, which was laid down approximately two years before his passing in 2005. Ned described this collaboration as a way to immortalize his father’s voice and keep his memory alive through music.

The story behind this unique collaboration began when Ned was gifted Chris LeDoux’s previously unused vocal track by singer/songwriter Brenn Hill. With the assistance of producer Mac McAnally, Ned was able to blend their voices seamlessly, creating a heartfelt connection through music across generations. The emotional weight of the moment was not lost on Ned, who found solace in this intimate musical duet with his father.

In addition to honouring his father, Ned used ‘Safe Haven’ as a platform to celebrate the life of his late daughter, Haven. Tragically, at just two years old, Haven passed away in 2019 due to a choking accident. The album includes an instrumental track titled “Haven’s Lullaby”, inspired by a melody that seemingly came to Ned while reflecting on his daughter’s memory.

Ned LeDoux’s dedication to keeping the legacies of both his father and daughter alive through music is evident in ‘Safe Haven’. He shared, “I believe that everybody in this world has a place where they need to go when things get a little too heavy. And for me, music has always been that place.” As he continues his musical journey, Ned remains committed to preserving his family’s musical heritage for years to come.

While Ned acknowledges that he may not have the opportunity to collaborate with his late father again, he takes pride in upholding Chris LeDoux’s musical legacy. He expressed his gratitude for the chance to carry on his father’s torch and for the everlasting impact of their shared music.

Ned LeDoux’s ‘Safe Haven’ stands as a testimony to the enduring power of music to connect generations and honour cherished memories. In a world often marked by grief and loss, Ned’s album serves as a beacon of hope and remembrance, weaving together the heartfelt stories of his father and daughter through soul-stirring melodies.