Jennifer Nettles Delivers Emotional Tribute With Vince Gill’s “Go Rest High on That Mountain” at 9/11’s 25th Anniversary
Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks, Jennifer Nettles stood before families and mourners in New York City and used one of country music’s most enduring songs to honor those who were lost.
On September 11, 2026, Nettles performed Vince Gill’s “Go Rest High on That Mountain” during the 25th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial in New York City. Her emotional rendition became one of the musical moments of a solemn day dedicated to remembering the lives taken on September 11, 2001.
The National September 11 Memorial & Museum’s 25th anniversary ceremony brought victims’ families together to read the names of those killed in the attacks. The 2026 observance also included a seventh moment of silence, added to honor people who have died from illnesses and injuries connected to 9/11 and its aftermath.
For Nettles, the performance carried an added personal connection. The singer, who is known both for her solo career and as one half of Sugarland, has also appeared on Broadway, giving her a particularly strong connection to New York City and its theater community.
During the ceremony, Nettles was joined onstage by Emily Fink, Adam Rothenberg, and Naomi Serrano. Rothenberg accompanied her on piano, while Fink and Serrano contributed soaring harmonies that complemented Nettles’ restrained and deeply emotional delivery.
Why Vince Gill’s Song Was Such a Fitting Choice
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” carries a history of grief that makes it especially suited to a remembrance ceremony.
Vince Gill began writing the song after the death of fellow country singer Keith Whitley in 1989. He did not complete it until after the death of his own brother, Bob, in 1993.
Gill eventually recorded the song with Ricky Skaggs and Patty Loveless providing backing vocals. Over the years, it has become closely associated with mourning, remembrance, and the loss of loved ones.
Nettles brought that history into the 9/11 commemoration, performing the song for families who were gathered to remember people they lost a quarter-century earlier.
Her performance was part of a larger musical program that also included cellist Yo-Yo Ma and the Brooklyn Youth Chorus. The ceremony was accompanied by musicians and vocalists including Ben Pila, Emi Ferguson, Coleman Itzkoff, the Orchestra of St. Luke’s, Musica Reginae, The Harlem Chamber Players, Rothenberg, Fink, and Serrano.