Ron Carter and Ricky Dillard release joint album Sweet, Sweet Spirit, a rare encounter between jazz and gospel, co-released by Blue Note Records and Motown Gospel.
Available since February 6, 2026, this project combines Carter’s bass with the choral power of Dillard’s New-G choir in a repertoire of hymns. A frequent question: why is this collaboration significant? Because it claims to be a “first-of-its-kind” fusion between jazz improvisation and sacred gospel intensity.
What is the album about? A tribute to Ron Carter’s mother, Mrs. Willie O. Carter, whose favorite hymns shaped his family and their Detroit church community. The idea dates back nearly thirty years, when Carter recorded bass interpretations for her to listen to in her final days.
For the single, “Farther Along” is accompanied by a video announced as directed by Paul C. Rivera and produced by Justin Green.
Tracklist:
- Open My Eyes
- Everybody Will Be Happy
- Pass Me Not
- Farther Along
- Just A Closer Walk With Thee
- In The Garden
- Just A Little Talk With Jesus
- Softly and Tenderly
- No Tears in Heaven
- Sweet, Sweet Spirit
Sources:
Blue Note Records (announcement)
Blue Note Store (tracklist)
GospelFlava (single/video)
Bass Magazine (context)
