During the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th anniversary celebration on March 19, 2025, Vince Gill delivered a deeply emotional performance that touched the hearts of everyone in attendance.
Taking the stage at the historic Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee, Gill performed his moving song “Go Rest High on That Mountain,” dedicating it to his mother—who was turning 100—and his late brother, Bob.
Before starting the song, Gill addressed the audience and said, “I want you to think about someone you’ve lost. This one is for my mother — she turns 100 this year. This is about her son.”
His heartfelt words set the tone for a performance that paid tribute both to his mother’s milestone and to the memory of his brother.
Gill was joined by fellow Opry members Ricky Skaggs and Sonya Isaacs, whose harmonies added a powerful layer to the touching tribute.
The performance coincided with the evening’s “In Memoriam” segment, which honored late country music legends including Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, and Jimmy Buffett.
The combination of Gill’s emotional delivery and the tribute visuals brought many in the audience to tears.
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” holds a deeply personal meaning for Gill.
He began writing the song after the death of his friend Keith Whitley in 1989, but didn’t finish it until 1993 following the death of his brother, Bob.
Since then, the song has become an anthem of remembrance in the country music world.
Gill’s performance at the Opry 100 celebration not only honored his family’s legacy, but also highlighted his enduring connection to the Grand Ole Opry, where he has been a member since 1991.
His tribute served as a powerful reminder of how music can express love, grief, and legacy in ways words alone cannot.