American Idol contestant Slater Nalley moved judges and viewers alike with a heartfelt original song honoring Carter Davis, the late son of his high school English teacher, Michele Davis. The touching tribute reminded millions of the power of music, the depth of grief, and the faith that brings comfort even in our darkest valleys.
Eight years ago, Carter Davis was tragically murdered just one day before beginning his senior year at River Ridge High School in Woodstock, Georgia. He and his friend, Natalie Henderson, were senselessly gunned down in a grocery store parking lot by a man they didn’t even know. The devastating loss rocked their community and forever changed the lives of those who loved them.
Among those left grieving was Carter’s mother, Michele Davis, who now teaches English at The Lovett School in Atlanta. Through her deep sorrow, Michele held on to her faith—and began noticing gentle signs that reminded her Carter was still near.
Slater Nalley Transforms Grief Into Music
Years later, Michele shared a poem she wrote in memory of her son with her student, Slater Nalley. Moved by Carter Davis’s story, Slater turned that poem into a powerful original song titled “Traces of You.” The song became his audition piece for American Idol, where his performance brought judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie to tears.
“This song is called Traces of You, I wrote it for Carter Davis,” Slater explained during the audition. “I didn’t know Carter before this happened, but when Mrs. Davis told us his story, I just felt this presence come into my life. I knew I needed to do something.”
The lyrics touched hearts across the nation: “Somewhere past the sky I can feel you dancing in the air. Every single time I see a bird fly by, I’m reminded you’re answering my prayers.”
For Michele Davis, it was more than a song—it was a reminder that her son’s life and legacy continue to speak.
Carter Davis: A Life That Reflected the Love of God
At Carter Davis’s funeral, held at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, students, family, and friends gathered to remember a young man whose joy and passion left an unforgettable mark. Michele Davis—who also teaches English at the church—sat among those who came to celebrate his life.
A statement shared by Headmaster Rev. Dr. James Hammer on behalf of Carter’s parents captured the heart of who Carter was:
“Carter Davis was the most loving, passionate, full-of-life young man.
Whether he was dribbling a soccer ball, throwing a football, or making a fast break in lacrosse, Carter’s athleticism and passion for team sports was evident. His competitive spirit on and off the field gave him the drive to excel—not only in sports, but also in academics.”
“His smile was a warm hug that embraced the room. It mattered not whether he lived in South Dakota, Colorado, or Georgia, Carter made friends easily and touched so many of us.”
“Although his life was cut short, everyone in his life will remember how he loved the Lord, loved everyone, and told them often. He lived life to the fullest.”
This testimony not only honored Carter’s accomplishments but underscored his faith. He was a young man who didn’t just believe in Jesus—he lived in a way that reflected the love of Christ.
God’s Comfort in Unexpected Places
Shortly after Carter’s death, Michele and her husband, Jeremy, sat on their porch with their young daughter, Greta, trying to make sense of their loss. Jeremy told Greta to watch for signs from Carter—maybe a feather, a butterfly, or a hawk in the sky.
