“Disrespectful!” Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood Face Backlash for Jimmy Carter Funeral Performance

Jimmy Carter’s memorial service took place on January 9, 2025, at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. He passed away at the age of 100 and was the longest-living former president in U.S. history.

Garth Brooks and his wife, Trisha Yearwood, performed at the service, but their song choice caused an uproar. Many fans criticized the lyrics, saying they were not appropriate for a church setting or a Christian funeral.

Brooks and Yearwood, who were close to Carter, sang John Lennon’s 1971 song “Imagine.” Their performance stirred strong reactions online, with many questioning why that song was chosen for the funeral.

The controversy centered on the song’s lyrics, which reject religion. One line says, “Imagine there’s no heaven, It’s easy if you try, No hell below us, Above us only sky.” Fans felt these words clashed with the values of a Christian funeral.

One fan expressed shock, saying, “Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood sing ‘Imagine’ at a highly Christian funeral?! How awful. ‘Imagine there’s no Heaven’??”

Another fan was upset, writing, “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.”

Other fans criticized the song directly, saying, “Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood sang 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?!” Another wrote, “Why would you sing this at a Christian funeral? Weird.”

Some were even more blunt, calling it the “most insulting song that could be played at a Christian funeral.” One fan pointed out Carter’s strong faith, saying, “Carter was a devout Christian, and that song was absolutely tone-deaf to sing at his funeral.” Others agreed, saying, “Inappropriate song for a devout Christian funeral.”

The location was also criticized. One fan said, “Sung in a historic cathedral…🤔. Bet Jimmy was rolling over in that coffin. 🙃” Another wrote, “Yikes 😳.” Others found it shameful, calling it “disgraceful.”

One fan added, “That is a truly inappropriate choice. If Brooks picked the song, he should be ashamed. If someone asked for it, he should have politely declined.” Another commented on the quality of the performance, saying, “He should have rehearsed.”

Some fans were conflicted. One said, “This is a beautiful performance, but the song choice is disrespectful to Carter’s memory.”

However, a few fans supported the performance. One wrote, “It was absolutely amazing and beautiful hearing those two sing.” Another shared, “Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood singing John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ at Jimmy Carter’s funeral was one of the most beautiful pieces of music I’ve ever heard.”

Brooks and Yearwood performed the song because it was one of Carter’s favorites. In a past interview, Carter was asked about his favorite Beatles song, and he said, “My favorite is ‘Imagine.’ When I go to a strange country, like Cuba, ‘Imagine’ has become a national anthem.”

Carter admired the song’s message and its global appeal. He mentioned that in Havana, there’s a statue of John Lennon, and the song is often played. He said, “‘Imagine’ is one of my personal favorites.”

Carter reflected on the song’s criticism of religion, nationalism, and borders but appreciated its deep impact. He said it resonated with people worldwide.

For Brooks and Yearwood, “Imagine” was a meaningful way to honor Carter. After his death, Brooks wrote on Instagram, “President Carter, the legacy you and Rosalynn have left us is as beautiful as the life you lived.”

Brooks thanked Carter and his late wife, Rosalynn, for their service to the world. He praised their ability to inspire others through their actions and words.

Yearwood also shared a touching tribute on Instagram, saying, “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 were active in Carter’s projects, especially with Habitat for Humanity. They worked on the 2024 Carter Work Project, which repaired over 4,447 homes in 14 countries. The couple said the experience left a lasting impression on them. Brooks added, “As they say, Home is the key, and love never quits!”

When Carter turned 100 in 2024, Brooks and Yearwood praised his work, saying, “Your work has changed the world, and your heart continues to inspire us all.” They also wrote, “Thank you for inspiring us to give more and love more. It’s an honor to be your friend.”

Even while Carter was in hospice in 2024, Yearwood noted that his legacy inspired volunteers. She said, “He couldn’t be there physically, but we all felt the responsibility to make him proud.”

Yearwood admired the teamwork between Carter and his wife, saying it was something she and Brooks strived for. She recalled how, even at 90, Carter was planning for the next 20 years.

Brooks added, “We all thought he’d be around a long time, and he didn’t disappoint us. It was touching that he could attend Mrs. Rosalynn’s funeral.”

Now, Brooks and Yearwood mourn their friend’s loss but find comfort in knowing he is reunited with his beloved wife.