Vince Gill is a country singer and songwriter who some people call a “reluctant superstar.” That means he didn’t always want to be famous, but he’s so good at what he does that he became a star anyway. Everyone in country music agrees he’s one of the best. His live performances are extra special, and one of our favorites is when he sang Dolly Parton’s song “I Will Always Love You” in 2019. He performed it at a big concert called Country Music: Live at the Ryman, which took place in Nashville at a famous place called the Ryman Auditorium, known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.”
That night, Vince Gill wasn’t alone. He sang alongside other country stars like Dierks Bentley, Marty Stuart, Rosanne Cash, and Dwight Yoakam. The concert was a way to celebrate a new documentary about country music made by Ken Burns.
You might know “I Will Always Love You” from Whitney Houston’s loud and powerful version. Her singing made the song super famous. But did you know Dolly Parton wrote it first? Her way of singing it was softer and simpler, and it set the tone for the song. Vince Gill’s version is different from both. He sings it quietly and gently, like a whisper or a soft hug. When he starts, it feels like he’s carefully playing his guitar and talking to your heart. Even when he gets to the big chorus part, he keeps it smooth and calm, not loud or dramatic. It’s like listening to a peaceful wave.
Vince Gill stays relaxed the whole time he sings. He makes the song feel personal, like it’s his own story, instead of just copying someone else. You might even forget it’s the same song Whitney Houston sang because he makes it so unique. Jennifer Robinson from KPBS said his performance was beautiful and amazing.
Dolly Parton was even there watching him sing her song! You can watch Vince Gill’s live performance of “I Will Always Love You” in the video below. It’s a special moment you won’t want to miss!
