Jennifer Nettles honored the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks with a moving performance of Vince Gill’s classic country song Go Rest High On That Mountain in New York City on Friday, Sept. 11.
The Sugarland singer performed at the 25th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony for families who lost loved ones during the tragedy or because of its lasting impact. Singing outdoors at the site of the attacks, Nettles was accompanied by a keyboard and soft vocal harmonies, creating a quiet and emotional tribute.
Before the ceremony, Nettles shared a rehearsal clip on social media and reflected on the difficulty of performing for people carrying so much grief.
“Those of us who were alive then all remember where we were when it happened,” she wrote.
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She continued, “It is always hard to sing within the presence of, and while holding, such emotion. So many sad hearts in front of you.”
Nettles also described how emotion can affect a singer’s voice, writing, “Emotion ‘catches in your throat,’ as they say. The voice is sacredly situated between the head and the heart. And that is precisely why, even though it may be hard, we must sing through the sadness.”
She added that it was her honor to offer comfort and connection to the families gathered for the ceremony.
Nettles chose Go Rest High On That Mountain because of its powerful message about death, grief, and finding peace. She called the song an “amazing modern hymn” and revealed that Vince Gill, who wrote and originally recorded it, gave her permission to perform it for the anniversary.
Gill began writing the song after the 1989 death of country singer Keith Whitley from alcohol poisoning. He left the song unfinished for several years, later returning to it after his older brother Bob died of a heart attack. Gill then completed the chorus and second verse.
Go Rest High On That Mountain went on to become one of country music’s best-known songs about loss. It earned both CMA and Grammy Awards and has been performed at several major memorial services, including Gill’s performance with Patty Loveless at George Jones’ funeral.
Nettles was among several country stars who marked the 25th anniversary of September 11 with special performances. Lainey Wilson also honored the victims with a rendition of Amazing Grace for an anniversary tribute special on ABC.
