Almost 40 years after their original collaboration on the gospel song Why Me Lord, veteran singers Ken Boothe and Carlene Davis-Cowan have revisited the 1980s hit, remixing and reimagining it for a wider audience in a format that is not preachy but rich in spiritual power.The song was recorded in 1988 as part of the album, Jesus is Only a Prayer Away, which was the first gospel reggae album by Carlene Davis, recorded at Kingston’s CRS Recording Studio. Originally released on vinyl LP, the eight-track album was then distributed by VP Records. Now, 38 years later, vinyl has given way to its availability on all major streaming platforms. Under Glory Music’s management, the video for the track was released on YouTube and features Boothe, Davis-Cowan and singers Adassa Patterson, Latoya Newell and her grandson Noah. Davis-Cowan, who has not done many collaborations over the years, reached out to Boothe, saying his unique and distinctive vocals have been enjoyed by thousands of fans and are a testament to the many people worldwide whose lives the song has spiritually impacted.“I am an admirer of this talent, and so when God laid it on the heart of Tommy [Cowan] that we should collaborate with Ken and he agreed, we didn't hesitate. There's only one Ken Boothe. His sound, his vocal style, his dance, the songs of his repertoire, his unique way of performing and, would say moreover, the way his music has affected the lives of so many worldwide.” She also believes the significance of this re-release will be well received by this generation. The song was remixed and the accompanying video shot by director JP Williams and produced by Tommy Cowan. “As time went by over the years, we are always in touch with each other, appearing on the same stage. Ken always calls us or, whenever we meet, he would sing the song and keep reminding us that we should come again with the song. On his birthday in March 2025, I was invited to the celebration with his wife, children, family, friends, and many well-wishers, and there and then, Ken and I sang Why Me Lord.” That 2025 birthday meet-up also saw Julian Marley, Pam Hall, Max Romeo, Brinsley Ford and Bogo Herman present, and everyone there encouraged the singing duo to revisit the song. “It was truly an inspiring moment. I have always loved Ken's voice so much so that I did over his version of Everything I Own years ago. Working with Ken is smooth and easy. His family and ours are very close. We call him all the time, and he never fails to call and wish us his best. He is truly a good friend,” Davis-Cowan said. nicola.cunnigham@gleanerjm.com