Emotional Moment: Vince Gill Dedicates ‘Go Rest High On That Mountain’ to His Late Loved Ones at Opry 100
The Grand Ole Opry Marks 100 Years of Country Music Legacy
On March 19th, country music’s biggest stars gathered to celebrate a century of the Grand Ole Opry—a show that started as a humble radio broadcast in 1925 and grew into one of the genre’s most legendary institutions.
As its popularity soared over the decades, the Opry moved from one venue to the next, eventually settling in its current home in 1974: a 4,400-seat concert hall that’s been the heart of the show’s evolution ever since.
The Opry’s 100th-anniversary celebration was broadcast live from the iconic Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee. Hosted by Blake Shelton, the star-packed event featured over two dozen of country music’s most beloved artists. Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood, Trace Adkins, and Vince Gill were just a few of the legendary names who took the stage on this historic night.
Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson, Brad Paisley, and Keith Urban also delivered special performances from the Opry’s former home, the Ryman Auditorium.
Vince Gill’s Legendary Opry Journey
Vince Gill has been a cherished member of the Grand Ole Opry for over three decades. He first stepped onto the Opry stage on June 29, 1989, and was officially inducted as a member two years later, on August 10, 1991.
Before his solo success, Gill spent more than ten years making a name for himself in the bluegrass world. His big break came in 1989 with the release of his solo album When I Call Your Name. The title track became a standout hit, climbing to #2 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart the following year and featuring harmony vocals from fellow country star Patty Loveless.
At just 34 years old, Gill delivered an emotional performance of “When I Call Your Name” during his Opry induction—one that left a lasting impression. To this day, the song remains one of his most requested numbers at live shows.
Vince Gill Performs “Go Rest High On That Mountain” With Ricky Skaggs for Opry 100
Vince Gill has graced the Opry stage countless times over the last three decades and has often served as a spokesperson for the Opry. As a part of the ‘In Memorandum’ segment of the anniversary celebration, the Oklahoma native delivered a stirring performance of “Go Rest High On That Mountain.”
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Gill began writing the eulogistic song after the untimely death of fellow country star Keith Whitley in 1989 but did not finish it until 1993 after his brother Bob died of a heart attack.
Ricky Skaggs, who sang backing vocals on the original recording of the song, joined Vince for the performance. Sonya Isaacs and a choir composed of additional Opry members rounded out the vocal ensemble.
Vince dedicated this song to his mother, who will turn 100 this year. In his words, she is the “same age as the Opry.” He added:
“This song is about her son.”
An emotional slideshow of beloved country stars lost played in the background as they sang, including Troy Gentry, Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, Jimmy Buffett, Joe Diffie, and many more. Audience members were visibly moved by the display, with many wiping away tears during the performance.
Watch Vince Gill perform “Go Rest High On That Mountain” with Ricky Skaggs at Opry 100 in the video below!
@countryrebel Vince Gill and Sonya Isaacs sing “Go Rest High On That Mountian” at the @Grand Ole Opry ♬ original sound – countryrebel
