On Thursday, country music legends Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood paid tribute to former President Jimmy Carter during his state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral. The couple performed a heartfelt rendition of John Lennon’s “Imagine,” a song that Carter had specifically requested for his funeral.
Carter, the nation’s 39th president, passed away on December 29 at the age of 100. His funeral was attended by all five living U.S. presidents, including President Joe Biden, former presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Donald Trump. Notable speakers at the ceremony included Carter’s former adviser Stu Eizenstat, grandson Jason Carter, and other family members.
Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood took to the stage following a homily delivered by Reverend Andrew Young. Donning all-black attire, Brooks notably chose not to wear his signature cowboy hat as a sign of respect. Accompanying his emotive vocals with acoustic guitar, Brooks performed against a backdrop of videos showcasing Carter’s remarkable life and contributions.
During the chorus, Yearwood lent her voice, harmonizing beautifully with the lines: “You may say I’m a dreamer / But I’m not the only one.” The heartfelt performance resonated with the audience, particularly moving President Biden, who was seen taking in the moment with his eyes closed, along with a captivated President Trump.
Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood’s connection with the Carter family goes beyond mere friendship; they have worked together on multiple Habitat for Humanity projects. Brooks humorously recalled how Carter used to challenge him during the builds, showcasing a light-hearted camaraderie. Their involvement in the charitable work reflects the Carters’ enduring legacy of goodwill and service.
Brooks had previously expressed his admiration for Carter through social media. He praised both Jimmy and his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, for their impactful legacies and their selfless dedication to serving the community and the world.
In celebrating the life of Jimmy Carter, Brooks and Yearwood’s tribute serves as a reminder of the values he stood for—compassion, service, and the dream of a united world. Their performance not only honored his legacy but also reinforced a message of hope and togetherness that Carter championed throughout his life.