Although Loretta Lynn and Willie Nelson were longtime friends and icons in country music, they only ever recorded one official duet together: the 2016 song “Lay Me Down.” The song, with its touching lyrics and soft melody, quickly became a fan favorite—and a symbolic piece of music history.
“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.”
Their voices blended with a sense of peace, wisdom, and reflection. Though it was their only duet, the emotional depth of the song made it timeless.
Loretta Lynn’s Passing & Willie’s Tribute
Loretta Lynn passed away on October 4, 2022, at the age of 90. Her death marked the end of an era in country music. Among the many tributes that poured in, Willie Nelson honored her memory with a brief but meaningful message:
“Loretta was a good friend and fantastically talented. She was a great writer, singer, and human being. I’ll miss her a lot.”
Their friendship lasted for decades, and their final duet remains one of the most heartfelt moments in country music.
Meet Emmy Russell & Lukas Nelson
On October 30, 2022, Loretta Lynn’s family held a public memorial service at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. The event was broadcast live by CMT, giving fans around the world a chance to say goodbye.
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During the memorial, Loretta’s granddaughter Emmy Russell and Willie’s son Lukas Nelson took to the stage to perform “Lay Me Down.”
Their performance was nothing short of breathtaking.
CMT described it as “emotional,” and for good reason. Emmy and Lukas delivered a version of the song that gave goosebumps to everyone watching, capturing the essence of their grandparents’ bond and legacy. The crowd was visibly moved, many wiping tears from their eyes.
A Moment That Lives On
The performance was so powerful, it earned a nomination for CMT Performance of the Year at the 2023 CMT Music Awards.
On the red carpet that night, Emmy Russell shared a touching piece of advice she received from her grandmother:
“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.’”
Emmy continues to carry that message with her in her music. She later became a contestant on Season 22 of American Idol, finishing in the Top 5 and earning praise for her honesty, humility, and vocal talent.
A New Generation Carries the Flame
Lukas Nelson, like his father, has carved his own path in the music industry with his band Promise of the Real, while remaining deeply respectful of his roots.
Emmy Russell, still early in her career, continues to honor Loretta Lynn’s legacy—not by copying her, but by staying true to herself and her faith, just like her grandmother taught her.
Watch the Performance
Watch Emmy Russell and Lukas Nelson’s emotional rendition of “Lay Me Down” — a tribute not only to Loretta and Willie, but to the enduring power of family, music, and love.
