Chris Janson Honors John Anderson at His Funeral With Heartbreaking Song Written the Night He Died

Chris Janson honoured country singer John Anderson at his funeral by performing an original song, “Hunting Buddy, Fishing Friend”, rather than one of Anderson’s hits. Written on the night Janson learnt of Anderson’s death, it recalled their friendship and his wish for one more chance to say “I love you” and “I miss you”.

Anderson had five No. 1 hits, including “Wild and Blue”, “Swingin’” and “Seminole Wind”, and was inducted into both the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Janson said Anderson’s family asked him to sing the song, calling the invitation one of the most humbling honours of his life; he also urged fans to remember Anderson and offer prayers for his family.