Vince Gill would be tipping his hat to you, girl. That song was performed in the most exquisite manner

Kelly Clarkson’s performance of Vince Gill’s “Go Rest High On That Mountain” in Nashville, Tennessee, during the last show of her Stronger tour in September 2012, was a moment of raw emotion and poignant tribute that left a lasting impression on her audience. Known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery, Clarkson chose to perform this song in memory of her guitarist’s uncle, Timmy Banks, who had recently passed away and was a dear friend to both Clarkson and her guitarist Aven .

Clarkson, who often takes song requests from her fans during live performances, decided to make a personal request this time, dedicating the song to Banks. Before beginning her rendition, Clarkson shared a few words about Banks, describing him as a “second father” to Aven and a good friend of hers. The singer expressed her hope of getting through the performance without tears, highlighting the deep emotional connection she felt to the song and the person it was dedicated to .

“Go Rest High On That Mountain” is a song that resonates with themes of loss, mourning, and the hope of eternal peace, making it a fitting tribute to a loved one. Written by Vince Gill in 1995, the song was inspired by the death of Gill’s brother, and it went on to earn him two Grammy Awards. The emotional weight of the song’s lyrics, combined with its solemn melody, has made it a cherished piece in the country music genre, often played at funerals and memorial services .

Clarkson’s performance was notable for its vulnerability. As she sang, her voice conveyed the depth of her sorrow, and at times, she was visibly moved to tears. The audience was captivated by her heartfelt delivery, with many fans expressing their appreciation for her ability to share such a personal moment with them. The performance was a testament to Clarkson’s skill as a vocalist and her capacity to connect with her audience on an emotional level .

The significance of this performance was further underscored by the presence of Aven, Clarkson’s guitarist, who played alongside her during the tribute. Despite his own grief, Aven provided a steady musical accompaniment, adding a layer of personal connection to the performance. The collaboration between Clarkson and Aven during this emotionally charged moment highlighted the strong bond between the artist and her band members, as well as their shared respect for the deceased .

“Go Rest High On That Mountain” has become a song that many turn to in times of loss, and Clarkson’s rendition added to the song’s legacy of healing and remembrance. Her ability to express the complex emotions associated with grieving, while delivering a beautiful musical tribute, showcased her versatility as an artist and her compassion as a person .

Clarkson’s tribute to Timmy Banks through Vince Gill’s song was a highlight of her Stronger tour, leaving an indelible mark on those who witnessed it. The performance not only honored the memory of a loved one but also served as a reminder of the power of music to bring people together in times of sorrow and reflection .