Vince Gill’s 1995 song “Go Rest High on That Mountain” features beautiful vocal harmonies that complement Gill’s lead vocals. But who exactly sings those haunting harmonies with Gill on this Grammy-winning country hit? Let’s take a closer look at the story behind “Go Rest High on That Mountain” and the artists who contributed to this classic song.
The Meaning and Background of “Go Rest High on That Mountain”
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” is a eulogic ballad that Vince Gill wrote about his late brother Bob Coen, who died tragically in 1993. Gill started writing the song at his brother’s funeral and it expressed his grief and desire to honor his brother’s memory.
The title contains a reference to an old Appalachian funeral song “Go Rest High on that Mountain Son” and Gill wanted to capture that old-time gospel spirit in his own song. Lyrically, it speaks about reuniting with a loved one in the afterlife amidst the beauty and peace of the mountains.
Vince Gill’s Vocals and Guitar
As the writer and performer, Vince Gill’s lead vocal is front and center on “Go Rest High on That Mountain.” His emotional, nuanced vocals convey the poignancy of the lyrics. Gill also plays acoustic guitar on the track, providing the main instrumentation along with his voice.
Gill recorded the song for his sixth studio album When Love Finds You, which was released in 1994. It was then released as a single in 1995. “Go Rest High on That Mountain” went on to win the Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance and Best Country Song.
Patty Loveless Sings Harmony
The most prominent harmony vocal on “Go Rest High on That Mountain” comes from country star Patty Loveless. She blends her smooth, rounded tones with Gill’s rougher lead vocal for an intricate, moving harmony.
Loveless was personally asked by Gill to sing on the track when he was recording it. She has said it was an emotional experience recording her part, as she too had lost a sibling at a young age and related to the song’s theme of loss and remembrance.
Loveless’ participation helped make the song a standout, and she joined Gill to perform it live numerous times including at the 1996 Grammy Awards.
Rickie Skaggs and Emmylou Harris
Two other acclaimed country/bluegrass singers also lend their vocals to “Go Rest High on That Mountain” – Ricky Skaggs and Emmylou Harris.
Skaggs adds his sharp, high tenor tones to the mix, weaving around Gill and Loveless’ parts. Harris also blends her iconic soprano lilt into the harmonies, rounding them out on the choruses.
Skaggs and Harris were established names in country, bluegrass and Americana music who helped give the song an authentic, mountain ballad sound.
Summary of the Vocalists
To summarize the key vocalists on “Go Rest High on That Mountain”:
- Vince Gill – Lead vocals, acoustic guitar, writer
- Patty Loveless – Primary harmony vocals
- Ricky Skaggs – Additional harmony vocals
- Emmylou Harris – Additional harmony vocals
It was the blend of these four distinctive voices on the choruses that created the song’s emotional, harmony-laden sound that struck a chord with listeners.
The Song’s Enduring Popularity and Legacy
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” became one of Vince Gill’s signature songs and a major hit, spending multiple weeks at #1 on the country charts. It crossed over to the mainstream pop charts as well.
Notable covers of the song include versions by Garth Brooks and Charlie Daniels at memorial services for George Jones and Charlie Daniels respectively. Alison Krauss also recorded a popular version.
But it remains best known in Gill’s original recording with the unforgettable harmonies by Patty Loveless, Ricky Skaggs and Emmylou Harris. Their collective performance made “Go Rest High on That Mountain” a beloved Grammy-winner and a go-to song to honor the memory of lost loved ones.