From American Songwriter · Paige Gawley · · 50s
Vince Gill Almost Didn't Record Signature Song
Vince Gill nearly refused to record his signature song until his producer convinced him to release it.
In brief
Vince Gill nearly refused to record his signature song until his producer convinced him to release it. Vince Gill almost didn't record his song 'Go Rest High on That Mountain' due to its personal nature but released it after his producer encouraged him. Originally reported by American Songwriter.
Vince Gill Almost Didn't Record Song
Vince Gill nearly refused to record his signature song because it was too personal for him.
“It was interesting, when I wrote that song, I didn’t want to record it”
Producer Pushed for Release
Tony Brown, his producer, convinced Gill to record the song despite his initial reluctance.
“You have to record this song. I’m going to make you record this song”
Song's Personal Impact

Gill's song became a comfort for people during hard times, with funeral directors using it to cope.
“I swear to God, if I never hear that song again, I’ll be happy”
Extended Version Released
Gill added a third verse to the song, which was released as an extended version in August 2025.
“I need one more verse for this song”
The essence
Vince Gill almost didn't record his song 'Go Rest High on That Mountain' due to its personal nature but released it after his producer encouraged him.