Jennifer Nettles delivered a deeply moving performance during the 25th anniversary commemoration of the September 11 attacks in New York City. The Sugarland singer performed Vince Gill’s “Go Rest High on That Mountain” for families gathered at the 9/11 Memorial.
The September 11, 2026 ceremony honored those killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks as well as victims of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. According to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, family members read the names of 2,983 people killed in those attacks.
Nettles was one of several musicians selected for the milestone ceremony, alongside Yo-Yo Ma and the Brooklyn Youth Chorus. Her performance was supported by pianist Adam Rothenberg and vocalists Emily Fink and Naomi Serrano.
For her tribute, Nettles chose Gill’s “Go Rest High on That Mountain,” a song closely associated with grief and remembrance. Gill began writing it after country singer Keith Whitley died in 1989 and completed it following the death of his brother Bob in 1993.
Before singing the song at such an important ceremony, Nettles reached out to Gill. She later revealed that the country legend gave her his blessing to perform his composition for the families remembering their loved ones.
Nettles also shared three words that captured how highly she regards the song, describing it as an “amazing modern hymn.” That description reflected why she believed Gill’s composition was particularly appropriate for a day centered on loss, remembrance and healing.
The performance itself was deliberately understated. Nettles sang outdoors with piano and gentle harmonies rather than relying on an elaborate stage production, allowing the emotion of the song and the significance of the location to remain at the center.
Afterward, Nettles opened up about the difficulty of performing while surrounded by families carrying such profound grief. She explained that powerful emotion can affect a singer physically, making it difficult to continue even when the music is meant to provide comfort.
Still, Nettles felt that singing through that sadness was important. She said it was an honor to offer comfort and connection to the people gathered for the anniversary, turning the performance into something far more personal than an ordinary appearance.
Video of the tribute quickly attracted attention online. American Songwriter reported that footage surpassed 1.2 million views, with viewers praising the emotional performance and the decision to use Gill’s enduring song of remembrance.
The ceremony itself included seven moments of silence, including a new observance honoring people who have died from 9/11-related illnesses or injuries. Organizers said the anniversary was also about ensuring younger generations understand the lives, sacrifice and resilience connected to September 11.
Twenty-five years after the attacks, Nettles’ rendition offered a quiet reminder of music’s ability to carry emotions that can be difficult to express in words. With Gill’s blessing and a song she considers an “amazing modern hymn,” she helped create a heartfelt moment of remembrance for families whose connection to September 11 remains deeply personal.
