Music
Rex Features
The Boyzone singer admitted that he was constantly reminded of his mum, who died of breast cancer a decade ago.
"In the studio, with 'Carrickfergus' in particular, I had to re-take a few times as I had a lump in my throat," he told the Daily Star.
"'Carrickfergus' was played at my mother's funeral so there was a real emotional attachment. Recording was tough as it brought up a lot of old ghosts.
"There is a real story behind the whole album, messages from fans to their mums in the sleeve notes and my own words about each track."
Proceeds from the album will be divided between the Marie Keating Foundation and Cancer Research UK.
According to midweek sales figures, 'Songs For My Mother' is on course to top the album chart on Sunday.
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