Jimmy Carter’s memorial service was held on January 9, 2025, at the National Cathedral in Washington D.C. He died aged 100 and was the longest-living former president in US history.
The performance by Garth Brooks and his wife, Trisha Yearwood at Jimmy Carter’s funeral sparked an uproar, with many fans criticizing the choice of song. They specifically called out the lyrics they found inappropriate for a church setting and a Christian funeral.
Brooks and Yearwood, who were close friends of Carter, sang a rendition of John Lennon’s 1971 track “Imagine,” at the Democrat’s funeral. Their performance caused quite a stir online, with many fans voicing their opinions on the choice of song.
The firestorm on social media largely revolved around the song’s lyrical rejection of religion. One of the most dividing verses sings, “Imagine there’s no heaven, It’s easy if you try, No hell below us, Above us only sky.” Fans didn’t love the idea of having these words sung in a church setting as they challenged the very values of the Christian funeral.
One fan expressed their disbelief, “Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood sing Imagine at a highly Christian funeral?!! How awful. Imagine there’s no Heaven?? [sic].”
Another triggered fan criticized this decision, “Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood are performing ‘Imagine’ at Jimmy Carter’s funeral. ‘Imagine there’s no heaven…’ ‘And no religion too …’ I gotta wonder—who planned this? There’s no worse song to sing at a funeral, except maybe ‘Highway to Hell.’ Sad. Pitiful, really [sic].”
Others took a hit at the song directly, writing, “Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood Singing the worst song ever written. ‘Imagine’ there’s no heaven. It’s easy if you try. No thank you. What kind of funeral song is that?! [sic]” More users questioned the song’s appropriateness, “Why would you sing this song at a Christian funeral? Weird.”
Others were more direct in their disapproval, calling it the “most insulting song that could be played at a Christian funeral.” One user pointed out Carter’s strong faith, “Carter was a devout Christian and that song was absolutely tone-deaf to sing at his funeral.” Another individual agreed, “Inappropriate song for a devout Christian funeral.”
The setting was targeted, with one fan noting, “Sung in a historic cathedral…🤔. Bet Jimmy was rolling over in that coffin. 🙃” while another simply expressed disgust, “Yikes 😳.” Some considered it shameful, penning, “disgraceful.”
Another fan concurred, “That is a truly inappropriate choice of material. If Brooks chose that he should be ashamed. If someone asked for it he should have politely declined.” Others felt the performance wasn’t great, with one saying, “He should have rehearsed.”
One user was conflicted, writing, “This is a beautiful performance. The choice of this song is disrespectful to Carter’s memory.”
On the other hand, a few fans were more forgiving of the performance, with one stating, “It was absolutely amazing and beautiful hearing those 2 sing.” A fan, who also didn’t agree with the backlash, swooned, “Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood singing John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ at the Jimmy Carter funeral was one of most beautiful pieces of music I’ve ever heard [sic].”
Garth Brooks and Yearwood performed the song because it was one of Jimmy Carter’s all-time favorites. In a past interview, Carter had been asked what his favorite Beatles song was and he answered, “My favorite is ‘Imagine.’ When I go to a strange country, Cuba and other places, in some of those nations, ‘Imagine’ has become a national anthem.”
Carter gushed about his appreciation for “Imagine,” noting its significance and widespread appeal. He shared that on a trip to Havana, one will see Lennon’s statue. He remarked that such places “always play ‘Imagine,’ and it’s one of my favorites just personally.”
Carter also reflected on how the song critiques aspects such as religion, national boundaries, nationalism, and jingoism. Yet, he acknowledged its profound impact, emphasizing its ability to resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.Hence, “Imagine” by Lennon became a meaningful way for Brooks and Yearwood to honor their friend. Following his passing, Brooks shared a tribute on Instagram, “President Carter, the legacy you and Rosalynn have left us is as beautiful as the life you lived.”
Brooks expressed his gratitude to Carter and his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, for their lifetime of service to both the country and the world. He acknowledged how they inspired everyone not only through their words but also through their actions.
Trisha Yearwood also wrote a touching message on her Instagram account, “Rest easy, Mr. President. I’m sad for us, and happy for you. Your and Mrs. Rosalynn’s legacy of love will live forever. ♥️”
Brooks and Yearwood, actively participated in Carter’s projects, particularly with Habitat for Humanity. They shared their experience of working on the Carter Work Project for 2024 on Instagram. The 2024 Carter Work Project united a diverse group of volunteers, homeowners, and supporters to repair and renovate more than 4,447 homes in 14 countries.
The couple were grateful to be involved in this project. Brooks emphasized the importance of their involvement, adding that while they showed up to contribute, they left with far more than they gave. “As they say, Home is the key and love never quits!” wrote Brooks.
When Carter turned 100 in 2024, Brooks and his wife commended him for the work he had done in building homes, “Your work has impacted the world and your heart continues to change lives, ours included.”
The couple added, “Thank you for inspiring all of us to give more and love more! It’s an honor to be your friend. love, Garth and Trisha.”
Even while Carter was in hospice in 2024, Yearwood reflected on how his enduring legacy of service continued to inspire the volunteers of his projects. She emphasized that while he couldn’t physically participate, Carter and his wife’s presence was strongly felt during the project. “We’re just two volunteers, but everybody who’s on this site feels that responsibility to make them proud,” she shared.
Yearwood noted that she and Brooks strive to be great teammates like Carter and his wife were. She also divulged that she wasn’t surprised by the former president’s longevity. She recalled how, even at the age of 90, her friend was already planning what he would accomplish in the next 20 years.
Brooks also chimed in, “We all bet that he was going to be around a long time and he has not let any of us down or disappointed any of us. The fact that he was there for Ms. Rosalynn’s funeral was very touching.”
Now, the country singers mourn the loss of their friend but take comfort in knowing he has been reunited with his beloved wife.