On October 30, 2022, the country music world gathered at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville to honor the life of Loretta Lynn, who passed away earlier that month at the age of 90. The memorial service, broadcast live by CMT, was filled with tributes from family, friends, and fellow artists. Among the most moving moments was the performance of “Lay Me Down” by Emmy Russell (Loretta Lynn’s granddaughter) and Lukas Nelson (son of Willie Nelson).
Their duet was more than just a song—it was a passing of the torch, a celebration of legacy, and a reminder of the enduring power of family and music.
Loretta & Willie’s Rare Duet: “Lay Me Down”
Although Loretta Lynn and Willie Nelson were close friends for decades, they only recorded one song together: the 2016 duet “Lay Me Down.” Featured on Loretta’s Full Circle album, the ballad speaks of peace, acceptance, and faith in life’s final chapter.
Some of the lyrics include:
“When they lay me down someday
My soul will rise, then fly away.
This old world will turn around,
I’ll be at peace when they lay me down.”
These words took on even greater meaning when Emmy and Lukas performed the song at Loretta’s memorial, symbolizing not just the music, but also the enduring bond between their families.
A Tribute That Gave Goosebumps
When Lukas Nelson and Emmy Russell stepped onto the Opry stage, the audience already felt the weight of the moment. With Lukas’s soulful voice blending with Emmy’s emotional delivery, their rendition of “Lay Me Down” was hauntingly beautiful.
CMT described the performance as “emotional”—and viewers at home agreed. Many fans shared on social media that they were moved to tears, calling the duet a perfect tribute that captured both the sorrow of loss and the beauty of Loretta’s legacy.
Even more special was the generational connection: two young artists carrying on the music of their legendary grandparents, making it feel like Loretta and Willie themselves were standing there on stage.
Willie’s Tribute to Loretta
After Loretta’s passing on October 4, 2022, Willie Nelson honored his longtime friend with a heartfelt message:
“Loretta was a good friend and fantastically talented. She was a great writer, singer, and human being. I’ll miss her a lot.”
The two country icons shared not only music but also a lifelong friendship, making this tribute by their children and grandchildren even more meaningful.
Recognition & Legacy
The performance of “Lay Me Down” by Emmy and Lukas was so powerful that it was later nominated for CMT Performance of the Year at the 2023 CMT Music Awards. Walking the red carpet that night, Emmy Russell reflected on her grandmother’s wisdom:
“The most advice that she has given me throughout the years was to love God. She was such a lover of God and I think it was more of, ‘Listen to Him and follow His voice.’”
Her words echoed the faith and strength that defined Loretta’s life and music, making the tribute even more profound.
Why This Performance Matters
Country music has always been about storytelling, family, and heritage. The duet of Emmy Russell and Lukas Nelson at Loretta Lynn’s memorial wasn’t just a performance—it was a living reminder of how music connects generations.
For fans, the moment was bittersweet. It honored Loretta’s unmatched contribution to country music while also pointing to the future, where Emmy and Lukas are carrying the torch. Their heartfelt rendition of “Lay Me Down” stands as one of the most unforgettable tributes in recent country music history.
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