The Story Behind a Timeless Classic
Country legend Vince Gill first released “Go Rest High on That Mountain” in 1995. The song, which was born from Gill’s personal grief, quickly became one of the most powerful and beloved ballads in country music history.
Gill began writing the track after the death of his friend, country singer Keith Whitley, in 1989. But it remained unfinished until 1993, when Gill’s older brother, Bob Coen, died of a heart attack. That personal tragedy gave Gill the words he needed to complete the song.
Upon release, “Go Rest High on That Mountain” touched millions. It went on to win Best Country Song at the 38th Grammy Awards, while Gill also took home the award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance.
A Song of Healing and Tribute
Over the years, Gill has performed “Go Rest High” at countless memorials and funerals, offering comfort and reflection through its heartfelt message.
One of the most memorable performances came in 2013, when Gill sang the song at George Jones’ funeral at the Grand Ole Opry House. Overcome with emotion, Gill struggled to sing at times, instead letting his guitar speak for him. Longtime friend Patty Loveless provided harmony vocals, just as she did on the original recording, alongside Ricky Skaggs.
The “Hidden” Third Verse
What many fans didn’t realize is that “Go Rest High” has an additional third verse, added years later. Speaking at a 2019 performance, Gill explained why he felt the song needed something more:
“In all these years of singing that song, truthfully, it felt just the slightest bit incomplete to me. I always thought it needed to tie itself up in some way.”
The new verse focuses on faith, redemption, and reunion:
“You’re safely home in the arms of Jesus / Eternal life, my brother’s found / The day will come, I know I’ll see him / In that sacred place, on that holy ground.”
For years, this verse was only performed live. Now, Gill has finally recorded it.
30th Anniversary Extended Version
On September 12, 2025, Gill announced the release of an extended version of “Go Rest High on That Mountain” in honor of its 30th anniversary.
On his official social media pages, he wrote:
“30 years ago, Vince Gill released ‘Go Rest High On That Mountain.’ Today, he released the extended version with the third verse you’ve only been able to hear live… until now.”
Fans will soon get to see Gill perform the extended version at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards on September 14, 2025, during the show’s traditional In Memoriam tribute. He will be joined by Lainey Wilson for the performance.
A Song That Continues to Inspire
Three decades after its release, “Go Rest High on That Mountain” remains a song of comfort, hope, and healing. With the addition of the long-awaited third verse, the extended version carries even deeper meaning for fans worldwide.