The bond between country legends Loretta Lynn and Willie Nelson was a lasting one, yet their joint ventures in music were rare, culminating in a single memorable duet, “Lay Me Down,” unveiled in 2016.
The duet, with its touching lyrics, “When they lay me down someday, my soul will rise, then fly away,” struck a chord with listeners, encapsulating a serene acceptance of life’s end.
After Loretta Lynn’s departure on October 4 at 90 years old, Willie Nelson honored his longtime friend, praising her exceptional skills as a songwriter and artist.
A commemorative service for Lynn at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville saw Willie’s son, Lukas Nelson, and Loretta’s granddaughter, Emmy Russell, give a moving performance of “Lay Me Down.” This rendition, aired by CMT, deeply moved the audience, eliciting tears of loss and admiration.
This poignant homage was recognized with a nomination for CMT Performance of the Year at the 2023 CMT Music Awards, highlighting the lasting resonance of Loretta Lynn’s influence.
Emmy Russell reflected on her grandmother’s sage advice, emphasizing Loretta’s devotion to God and the importance of following divine direction, showcasing Loretta’s lasting legacy in music and personal ethos.
