Vince Gill, Lainey Wilson Team Up For Emmy Awards In Memoriam Performance Of “Go Rest High On That Mountain”

The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards lit up The Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday night (September 14), honoring the best in television’s creative and technical achievements. Among the evening’s most moving moments was the In Memoriam segment, which paid tribute to the television legends we lost over the past year.

This year’s tribute was made all the more special with a first-time collaboration between country music royalty Vince Gill and reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year Lainey Wilson. The two took the stage to perform Gill’s beloved 1994 ballad, “Go Rest High On That Mountain.”

A Special Debut for Both Artists

Though Vince Gill has performed the song many times over the past three decades, this marked his first appearance at the Primetime Emmy Awards—and the first time singing it alongside Lainey Wilson.

Wilson teased the performance in a post before the big night, sharing:

“So looking forward to performing ‘Go Rest High On That Mountain’ with @vincegillofficial for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards.”

Introduced by Phylicia Rashad

Adding to the emotional weight of the moment, the duo was introduced by Phylicia Rashad, best known for her role on The Cosby Show. Rashad’s heartfelt words reflected on her late co-star, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who passed away in July. Her surprise appearance received warm applause from the audience.

A Stunning Visual and Vocal Tribute

Dressed in head-to-toe black, Lainey Wilson stood poised beside Vince Gill, who wore a navy blue suit with timeless elegance. Gill began the performance with the first verse solo, his voice steady and heartfelt. Lainey joined in harmony for the chorus, then stepped into the spotlight for the second verse and chorus.

Gill returned for the rarely heard third verse, adding emotional depth. A full choir joined them for the final chorus, creating a powerful, spiritual climax. Behind them, a screen displayed images of the departed, making the tribute deeply personal and reflective for viewers.

Marking 30 Years of “Go Rest High”

The Emmys performance came just days after Vince Gill re-released “Go Rest High On That Mountain” in celebration of the song’s 30th anniversary. This updated version honors its lasting legacy and emotional resonance, further deepened by this poignant Emmy performance.

Watch the unforgettable performance by Lainey Wilson and Vince Gill below: