Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood’s rendition of “Imagine” at Jimmy Carter’s funeral sparks debate over its appropriateness.
On January 9, 2025, the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., hosted the state funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100. The ceremony was attended by all living former U.S. presidents, including President Joe Biden, and featured heartfelt tributes to Carter’s legacy of service and humility.
A notable moment during the service was the performance by country music stars Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, who sang John Lennon’s “Imagine.” The couple, longtime friends of the Carters through their work with Habitat for Humanity, had previously performed the same song at Rosalynn Carter’s funeral in 2023.
However, the choice of “Imagine,” a song that begins with the lyrics “Imagine there’s no heaven,” sparked controversy among attendees and viewers. Some critics argued that the song’s secular message was inappropriate for a Christian funeral service, especially considering Carter’s deep evangelical faith. Others defended the selection, noting that “Imagine” was one of Carter’s favorite songs and symbolized his lifelong commitment to peace and unity.
Despite the differing opinions, the performance highlighted the close bond between the Carters and the musical duo. Garth Brooks and Yearwood’s participation in the service was seen as a tribute to their shared humanitarian efforts and mutual respect. The debate over the song choice underscores the complexities of honoring personal preferences within the context of traditional religious ceremonies.
