About the song
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” by Vince Gill is a poignant and deeply personal eulogy encapsulated in a soulful ballad, released in August 1995 as part of his album *When Love Finds You*. Written in the wake of profound loss, Gill began crafting the song after the passing of country music singer Keith Whitley in 1989. However, it wasn’t until the death of his older brother Bob in 1993 that Gill found the emotional clarity to complete it. The song is a testament to Gill’s grief and the solace he found in the idea of his loved ones resting peacefully.
The composition, set in the key of D major with a slow tempo, follows a chord pattern that underscores its emotional weight. It features heartfelt background vocals by Ricky Skaggs and Patty Loveless, adding depth to Gill’s already powerful delivery.
Critically acclaimed, “Go Rest High on That Mountain” has been lauded for its spiritual lyricism and Gill’s impeccable vocal performance. Billboard magazine’s Deborah Evans Price praised it as “beautiful, majestic, and easily one of the best singles of Gill’s already distinguished career.” Rolling Stone recognized its impact by ranking it No. 17 on its list of the 40 Saddest Country Songs of All Time in 2019.
The song’s accolades extend beyond critical praise. It won the CMA Song of the Year award in 1996 and earned Gill two Grammy Awards for Best Male Country Vocal Performance and Best Country Song at the 38th Grammy Awards. It peaked at No. 14 on the Country Singles chart and has sold over 857,000 digital copies in the US.
The music video, directed by John Lloyd Miller and filmed at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, captures Gill’s heartfelt performance against a backdrop of nature’s splendor. Images of mountains, forests, and sunrises complement the song’s themes of peace and transcendence.
Notably, Gill’s emotional connection to the song was highlighted during a poignant performance at the funeral of country legend George Jones in 2013. Overcome with emotion, Gill leaned on his guitar while Loveless supported him vocally, demonstrating the song’s ability to resonate deeply in moments of collective grief.
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” stands as a timeless tribute to loss, resilience, and the enduring power of music to console and uplift the human spirit. Vince Gill’s masterful storytelling and musical craftsmanship ensure that the song remains a cherished piece of country music history, offering solace to listeners worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
I know your life
On earth was troubled
And only you could know the pain
You weren’t afraid to face the devil
You were no stranger to the rain
Go rest high on that mountain
Son your work on earth is done
Go to heaven a-shoutin’
Love for the Father and the Son
Oh, how we cried the day you left us
We gathered ’round your grave to grieve
Wish I could see the angels faces
When they hear your sweet voice sing
Go rest high on that mountain
Son your work on earth is done
Go to heaven a-shoutin’
Love for the Father and the Son
Go rest high on that mountain
Son your work on earth is done
Go to heaven a-shoutin’
Love for the Father and the Son
Go to heaven a-shoutin’
Love for the Father and the Son