“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
When the rich, melancholic chords of “Go Rest High on That Mountain” fill the air, it’s hard not to feel the soul-stirring impact Vince Gill intended when he penned this poignant song. Inspired by the deaths of fellow country music stars Keith Whitley and Gill’s older brother, the song transcends its origins, touching the hearts of anyone who has experienced loss.
About The Composition
- Title: Go Rest High on That Mountain
- Composer: Vince Gill
- Premiere Date: August 1995
- Album/Opus/Collection: Included in the album “When Love Finds You”
- Genre: Country, with elements of Southern gospel
Background:
Originally written in 1989 after the death of Keith Whitley, Vince Gill struggled to complete the song until the death of his own brother in 1993 provided the sad impetus to finish it. The emotional depth of the song reflects Gill’s personal grief and his journey towards healing. Upon its release, it received critical acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics and was praised as a powerful piece of musical mourning, solidifying its place in Gill’s repertoire.
Musical Style
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” uses traditional country and Southern gospel elements to create a powerful emotional experience. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, and fiddle, which complement Gill’s heartfelt vocals. The arrangement is straightforward yet profound, with the chorus providing a soaring, hymn-like quality that amplifies the song’s themes of peace and redemption.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Go Rest High on That Mountain” serve as a farewell to a soul that has suffered and found release in passing. Lines like “I know your life on earth was troubled, and only you could know the pain” resonate deeply with listeners, offering solace and a sense of shared grief. The chorus suggests a serene release from worldly struggles, an echo of timeless gospel motifs.
Performance History
Since its release, “Go Rest High on That Mountain” has been a staple at funerals, including those of country music figures such as George Jones and Ralph Stanley, testament to its profound impact and connection with themes of mourning and consolation. Its performance at significant events has only deepened its resonance within the country and gospel music communities.
Cultural Impact
This song’s use in significant public and private mourning moments showcases its broad cultural impact. Beyond its genre, it serves as a bridge for those coping with loss, demonstrating music’s universal power to comfort and heal. Its inclusion in numerous memorial playlists and its frequent use in religious and secular ceremonies alike underline its wide-reaching influence.
Legacy
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” remains one of Vince Gill’s most enduring works. Its legacy is marked by its ability to provide comfort in times of grief and its capacity to connect deeply with listeners’ personal experiences of loss. The song continues to be celebrated for its compassionate lyrics and emotional depth, ensuring its place in the annals of country music and beyond.
Conclusion
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” is not just a song but a shared emotional journey, offering a musical shoulder to lean on. For those who have lost someone, Vince Gill’s masterpiece provides a voice to their feelings of sorrow and solace. I encourage all to listen to this powerful piece, allowing its serene and hopeful message to provide comfort during times of grief.
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