Vince Gill would definitely admire your talent, girl. This song is truly the epitome of beauty in music

Kelly Clarkson, known for her incredible vocal range and emotional performances, delivered a deeply moving rendition of Vince Gill’s “Go Rest High On That Mountain” during the last night of her Stronger tour in Nashville, Tennessee, in September 2012. This performance was not just another song in her setlist but a heartfelt tribute to a dear friend and mentor, showcasing Clarkson’s ability to connect with her audience on a profoundly emotional level .

During her live shows, Clarkson often engages with her fans by taking song requests. However, on this particular night, she chose to sing a song that held personal significance for her and her band. “Go Rest High On That Mountain” was dedicated to her guitarist Aven’s uncle, Timmy Banks, who had recently passed away. Banks was described by Clarkson as a “second father” to Aven and a good friend to herself, highlighting the close-knit nature of her touring family and the personal loss they were experiencing .

Before beginning the song, Clarkson took a moment to address the audience and express her intentions for the tribute. Visibly emotional, she hoped not to cry during the performance, underscoring the genuine sorrow and respect she felt for the deceased. This moment of vulnerability allowed the audience to connect with Clarkson on a human level, bridging the gap between performer and spectator .

As she sang, Clarkson’s voice conveyed the weight of the loss, with each lyric resonating with palpable grief and reverence. The song “Go Rest High On That Mountain” itself is a poignant ballad written by Vince Gill, inspired by the passing of his brother. Over the years, it has become a staple in commemorating lost loved ones within the country music community, earning Gill two Grammy Awards for Best Male Country Vocal Performance and Best Country Song. Clarkson’s choice to perform this particular song showcased her deep roots in and respect for country music tradition .

The performance was a testament to Clarkson’s versatility as an artist and her ability to cross genres seamlessly. Known primarily as a pop singer, she demonstrated her country music prowess, paying homage to the genre’s rich history and its themes of loss, love, and redemption. Her rendition of “Go Rest High On That Mountain” was not just a cover but a deeply personal interpretation that added a new layer of meaning to the already powerful song .

Clarkson’s performance was met with acclaim, both from the live audience and viewers who later watched the performance online. Fans and critics alike praised her emotional delivery and vocal mastery, highlighting her ability to convey the song’s message with authenticity and raw emotion. The performance became a highlight of her Stronger tour, remembered by many as a moment of beautiful tribute amidst a night of entertainment .

This poignant moment in Kelly Clarkson’s career underscores her skill as a vocalist and her sensitivity as a performer. It serves as a reminder of the healing power of music and its ability to bring people together in times of sorrow. Clarkson’s tribute to Timmy Banks through “Go Rest High On That Mountain” will remain a memorable performance, showcasing her ability to touch hearts and evoke shared human experiences through her artistry .