Vince Gill Nearly Refused To Record His Signature Song—Until His Producer Stepped In (Exclusive)
Vince Gill has said he nearly refused to record “Go Rest High on That Mountain” because the song was too personal, but producer Tony Brown insisted he make it. Released in 1995, it became Gill’s signature song and is often used by people going through grief and other difficult times.
Gill wrote the song after the death of his brother, Bob Coen, and said he drew comfort from knowing listeners found comfort in it. He also felt the original recording was unfinished, despite its two verses and instrumental solos, and later added a third verse. The extended version was released in August 2025 after fellow songwriter Rodney Crowell encouraged him to keep the new verse.
In short
- Tony Brown persuaded Gill to record a song he found too personal.
- “Go Rest High on That Mountain” became a source of comfort for mourners.
- Gill’s extended version, with a third verse, came out in August 2025.
Explained simply
Vince Gill is an American country singer and songwriter, and Tony Brown is a record producer who worked with him. Gill wrote “Go Rest High on That Mountain” after his older half-brother, Bob Coen, died in 1993.
The song was released in 1995 and became closely associated with Gill’s career. Its words about loss and faith have led many listeners to turn to it during bereavement and other difficult times, giving it a place beyond country music.
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