If Vince Gill heard you, he’d be impressed, girl. Your version is the finest rendition ever heard.

In a memorable evening in Nashville, TN, during the final night of her Stronger tour in September 2012, Kelly Clarkson moved her audience with a heartfelt tribute by performing Vince Gill’s iconic song “Go Rest High On That Mountain.” Known for her powerful voice and emotional depth, Clarkson chose to dedicate this song to a close friend’s relative, bringing not just herself but also the audience to tears with her profound rendition .

Clarkson, who has a tradition of taking song requests from her audience during live performances, decided to pick a song that held personal significance on this particular night. “Go Rest High On That Mountain” was not just a song choice; it was a heartfelt dedication 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 had been a good friend to Clarkson herself, making this performance deeply personal and significant .

Before commencing the emotional performance, Clarkson took a moment to speak to the audience about the importance of the song and the person it was dedicated to. Fighting back tears, she expressed her hope not to cry during the performance, highlighting the strong emotional connection she had with the song and its dedication .

The song “Go Rest High On That Mountain” was penned by Vince Gill in 1995, inspired by the passing of his own brother. The song has since become a significant piece in country music, earning Gill two Grammy Awards for Best Male Country Vocal Performance and Best Country Song. Its lyrics speak of peace and the hope of finding rest after the struggles of life, themes that resonate deeply with many who have experienced loss .

Clarkson’s rendition of the song was not only a showcase of her vocal talent but also her ability to convey deep emotions through music. The performance was marked by Clarkson’s raw emotion, as tears streamed down her face, mirroring the grief and love in the song’s lyrics. Her guitarist, Aven, joined her in this emotional tribute, adding a layer of personal connection to the performance .

The audience’s response to Clarkson’s performance was overwhelmingly positive, with a big round of applause and commendation for her ability to deliver such a powerful tribute. Fans and attendees were moved by the authenticity and emotional depth of the performance, highlighting Clarkson’s unique ability to connect with her audience on a personal level .

This performance stands out in Kelly Clarkson’s career as a moment where her artistry and humanity intersected beautifully on stage. It showcased not only her exceptional talent as a vocalist but also her capacity for empathy and emotional expression. Through this tribute, Clarkson honored the memory of Timmy Banks and touched the hearts of all those present, creating a moment that would be remembered by her fans for years to come .

The impact of this performance extends beyond just the music; it serves as a reminder of the power of song to bring people together in times of sorrow and remembrance. Clarkson’s tribute through “Go Rest High On That Mountain” exemplifies the healing and unifying power of music, making it a significant moment in her career and in the lives of those who witnessed it .