Country music icons Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood paid tribute to former President Jimmy Carter at his state funeral on Thursday, performing John Lennon's "Imagine" at the Washington National Cathedral.
What To Know
Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, passed away on December 29 at the age of 100. He died at his home in Plains, Georgia, where he and his wife, Rosalynn, spent most of their lives together.
Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood Sing Duet Of 'Imagine' During Carter's Funeral
The state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral brought together dignitaries, including the remaining living presidents. President Joe Biden delivered a heartfelt eulogy, celebrating Carter's legacy of integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to public service.
Following Biden's remarks, singers Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood performed an emotional rendition of "Imagine," reflecting the former president's enduring commitment to peace and unity. Unlike John Lennon's original, their performance infused the classic with a country-inspired style.
The song, often associated with unity and hope, was also performed by Brooks and Yearwood at former first lady Rosalynn Carter's funeral in 2023.
While it was chosen to reflect the ideals President Carter championed throughout his life, some viewers questioned the choice. They pointed out that its lyrics, beginning with "Imagine there's no heaven," seemed at odds with the eulogies emphasizing Carter's deep Christian faith.
The rendition, however, received a standing ovation, a powerful moment that underscored the emotional depth of the service and the enduring impact of Carter's vision for global harmony.
Were Garth Brooks And Jimmy Carter Friends?
Brooks and Carter shared a friendship that grew over their dedication to public service and humanitarian causes. Brooks and his wife, Yearwood, have worked with Habitat for Humanity, a cause closely associated with Carter and his wife, Rosalynn.
Brooks publicly admired Carter's legacy as a humanitarian and his efforts post-presidency.
Is Garth Brooks A Republican Or A Democrat?
Brooks has been known for maintaining a nonpartisan public image, often steering clear of explicitly aligning with a political party. He has performed at events for presidents from both parties, including Republican George H.W. Bush and Democrat Joe Biden.
In interviews, he has stated his belief in focusing on shared values rather than political labels.
What People Are Saying
President Joe Biden, at the Washington National Cathedral: "I miss [Carter], but I take solace in knowing that he and Rosalynn are reunited again. To the entire Carter family, thank you—sincerely—for sharing them both with America and the world. We love you all."
Jason Carter, grandson of Jimmy Carter, at the Washington National Cathedral: "He had the courage and strength to stick to his principles even when they were politically unpopular. As governor of Georgia, half a century ago, he preached an end to racial discrimination and an end to mass incarceration. As president in the 1970s, as you've heard, he protected more land than any other president in history."
President-elect Donald Trump on Truth Social after Carter's passing: "While I strongly disagreed with him philosophically and politically, I also recognized that he truly loved and respected our Country and all it stands for."
What Happens Next
Thursday concludes six days of national rites that began in Plains, Georgia, where Carter was born in 1924, lived most of his life and died.
After the service in Washington, Carter's remains, his four children and extended family were to return to Georgia on a Boeing 747 that serves as Air Force One when the sitting president is aboard. The late president will be buried in Plains alongside Rosalynn Carter.
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