Relive Randy Travis’ Moving Performance Of “Amazing Grace” At George Jones’ Funeral

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Honoring one of the finest vocalists in country music history, Randy Travis delivered a haunting performance of “Amazing Grace” at George Jones’ funeral in May 2013

A hole was left in the country music community when George Jones passed away on April 26, 2013, at the age of 81. Jones, known affectionately as “the Possum,” made an immeasurable mark on the industry and his music will live on for generations.

Even though Jones was no longer topping country music charts at the time of his tragic death, country music icons came together to honor the man who paved the way for so many. Travis Tritt, Alan Jackson, Vince Gill, and Randy Travis were all among the performers on the night of his funeral.

One of the night’s most memorable performances was Randy Travis’s. He took the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and delivered a stripped-down solo acoustic performance of  “Amazing Grace” that allowed the moving lyrics to shine through. While Travis maintained his composure during the performance, his emotion was visible while delivering the powerful hymn.

 

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Randy Travis recorded his own tribute to George Jones in June 2013

By request of Warner Brothers, Randy Travis recorded “Tonight I’m Playin’ Possum” as a tribute to George Jones. He enlisted the help of fellow country music artist Joe Nichols to be featured on the track. Travis told the Chicago-Sun Times:

“It’s just a wonderful piece of writing. And what I wanted to accomplish by doing it is simply what it is — a tribute to George. Many people in this business will say that he’s the greatest country singer that ever lived, and I agree. I thought a lot of him.”

“Tonight I’m Playing Possum” is a traditional country song detailing the heartache many experienced following George Jones’s death. The lyrics tell the story of a fan hearing the tragic news and pouring a strong drink before spending the night shut in listening to old records of the “Possum’s” greatest hits.

Randy Travis’ performance at George Jones’ funeral was one of his last significant appearances before his stroke in July 2013.

Just two months after Randy Travis moved the Grand Ole Opry crowd with his rendition of “Amazing Grace,” he suffered a stroke that would permanently affect his ability to sing and perform. This somber fact makes the night even more emotional in retrospect.

You can watch Randy Travis’ moving performance below.