As thousands gathered to honor former President Jimmy Carter on January 9, 2025, the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., was filled with solemnity. Carter was the longest-living former president in American history, having lived to be 100 years old. But for reasons other than his remarkable life of service, his memorial became a topic of conversation.
During the memorial, close friends Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood sang Imagine, John Lennon’s 1971 anthem. Although their sincere intentions were evident, the music selection caused debate on the internet. Many fans took issue with the lyrics, especially with phrases like “Imagine there’s no heaven… deemed unsuitable for a Christian funeral in a historic church, “above us only sky.”
A fan commented, “At a devout Christian’s funeral, singing this is tone-deaf,” expressing the dissatisfaction of some attendees and spectators. Some thought the song was disrespectful and questioned how it related to Carter’s faith. The topic of the song as well as the performance itself were criticized, along with comments regarding how it was performed.
Some viewers liked the gesture in spite of the criticism. Supporters defended the concert as a heartfelt homage, highlighting the artists’ personal bond with the deceased president. The Carters were longtime friends of Brooks and Yearwood, who frequently worked together on humanitarian endeavors, especially Habitat for Humanity. Imagine represented Carter’s aspirations for harmony and peace, and to them it was more than just a song.
Jimmy Carter had often spoken about his fondness for Lennon’s Imagine, reflecting on its global impact. For Carter, the song transcended boundaries, offering a vision of a better world. In interviews, he described it as a “national anthem” in places like Cuba, where Lennon’s legacy resonates deeply. The song’s message, though challenging to some, aligned with Carter’s belief in bridging divides and fostering understanding.
Brooks and Yearwood’s bond with the Carters extended beyond personal friendship. They worked closely with them on numerous Habitat for Humanity projects, helping build homes for families in need. Their admiration for Carter’s service and humility was evident in their frequent public tributes. During Carter’s 100th birthday in 2024, they commended his lifelong dedication to improving lives, calling him an enduring source of inspiration.
When Rosalynn Carter passed away in late 2023, both Brooks and Yearwood attended her memorial, supporting Carter in his grief. Brooks later reflected on Carter’s resilience, noting his ability to inspire even as his health declined. The couple’s connection to the Carters was deeply rooted in mutual respect and shared values.
The performance of Imagine may have divided opinions, but it underscored Carter’s impact on those who knew him. For Brooks and Yearwood, it was their way of honoring a man who believed in the possibility of a more unified world. While some may debate the song’s suitability, the tribute highlighted Carter’s legacy of service, love, and hope—a legacy that continues to inspire.