Amber has released her own version of the classic holiday track, “Merry Christmas, Darling.”

Originally recorded by The Carpenters in 1970, “Merry Christmas, Darling” was written by Richard Carpenter and Frank Pooler. The classic song tells a story about going through the holidays without your special someone and dreaming of spending the festive season with them, wherever they are.
Hayes recruited Nashville-based producer Charlie Kelley for helping bring her version to life. Hayes’ sultry vocal accompanied by a classic Country sound sets the Christmas mood and allows the listener to feel the holiday spirit.

“’Merry Christmas, Darling’ has been one of those Christmas songs that I’ve enjoyed performing live throughout the years,” commented Hayes. “I’m a big fan of Karen Carpenter’s voice and the song—it has always been a staple in my Christmas playlist! I hope that fans will enjoy my version and listen to it this upcoming holiday season.”

The song is now available on iTunes, Amazon and other major digital retailers.

“Merry Christmas, Darling” follows the release of Hayes’ song, “Hero’s Heart.” Hayes released the track in honor of her uncle, Command Sergeant Major Bennie G. Adkins, who was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2014. Hayes was in attendance at the White House with her uncle when he was presented with the award, which is the United States of America’s highest military honor. In addition, she released a new EP, Running Out of Memories late last year.

The 16-city Nothing But The Hits holiday tour starts off November 28th in Oklahoma. Performing alongside big names like Ronnie McDowell, Deborah Allen, Jeff Bates, Ken Mellons and others, Hayes is in her element. Coming off of her fourth Top 40 Country music single, “Running Out of Memories” and her new single “Hero’s Heart,” there’s no doubt Hayes fits right in with the tour’s stellar lineup.

A 15-piece band will be accompanying the artists as they perform their hits and Christmas favorites. The show will also be in the traditional Country camp, satisfying listeners yearning for what promoter Danny Rasberry calls “real” Country music.

“There is a void and a need for ‘real’ Country music,” said Rasberry. “With this tour, we put together some of the most sensational voices in music. I know the fans will love what will be coming their way!”

Hayes and a hearty dose of Christmas spirit will be coming your way as the tour kicks off Nov. 28 in Stillwater, Okla. The tour will make its last stop in Newberry, S.C. on Dec. 19, hitting towns throughout Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma and South Carolina on the way. To purchase tickets, call 601-649-2822 or visit www.NothingButTheHits.com.

Nothing But The Hits Christmas Tour Dates:
Nov. 28 – Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State tailgate party – Stillwater, Okla.
Nov. 30 – Brown Grand Theatre – Concordia, Kan.
Dec. 1 – Knuckleheads – Kansas City, Mo.
Dec. 2 – Gillioz Theatre – Springfield, Mo.
Dec. 4 – Crystal Theatre – Okemah, Okla.
Dec. 5 – Poncan Theatre – Ponca City, Okla.
Dec. 7 – King’s Opera House – Van Buren, Ark.
Dec. 9 – Saenger Theatre – Hattiesburg, Miss.
Dec. 10 – Private Event – Biloxi, Miss.
Dec. 11 – Natchez Center of Performing Arts – Natchez, Miss.
Dec. 12 – Grand Opera House of the South – Crowley, La.
Dec. 15 – Kentucky Opry – Benton, Ky.
Dec. 16 – Cox Capital Theatre – Macon, Ga.
Dec. 17 – Gem Theatre – Calhoun, Ga.
Dec. 18 – Morton Theatre – Athens, Ga.
Dec. 19 – Newberry Opry House – Newberry, S.C.

Country artist Amber Hayes’ newest song titled “Hero’s Heart” was released to Country radio this week. Hayes wrote and recorded the song in honor of her uncle and Medal of Honor recipient Command Sergeant Major Bennie G. Adkins, who was recognized with the Medal of Honor in September 2014 for his bravery at the battle of Camp “A Shau” in the Republic of Vietnam.
Hayes also released an official lyric video for “Hero’s Heart,” which can be viewed on her YouTube channel here. The lyric video features photos and footage of significant moments in Sergeant Adkins’ career as one of the most highly decorated soldiers in the United States of America.
The special song premiered on CountryWeekly.com this past July and can be heard here. Hayes was also featured as the “Who’s New” artist in the 7/6 issue of the publication.