4 Last Songs Performed by Legendary, Late Country Artists

An artist’s final performance cements their legacy. While some prove prescient, others feel like the musician was cut off mid-sentence. Either way, it’s interesting to learn which songs were there for an artist’s final moments on stage. Check out four last songs performed by legendary, late country artists, below.

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“I’ll Sail My Ship Alone” (Patsy Cline)

The last song country legend Patsy Cline performed was apt, given it was also the final song she recorded. Cline had her final concert in Kansas City. She rounded out her set with this mid-tempo track. Though this song on its own isn’t very haunting, the knowledge that she would pass soon after performing it adds an eerie lens to it.

We’ve been sweethearts for so long
But now you say we’re through,
The love we shared is now a memory.
I had built a ship of dreams
And planned them all for you,
And now,
I guess,
What is to be will be

“Paradise” (John Prine)

John Prine‘s final performance took place in Paris, France, but his mind was back at his paternal home: Kentucky. Prine finished his set with an audience-appeasing rendition of “Paradise.” This track sees Prine comment on the devastating effects of coal mining. While, thematically, this song doesn’t feel like a proper send off for this legend, its prestige in Prine’s career makes it the perfect choice.

And Daddy, won’t you take me back to Muhlenberg County?
Down by the Green River where Paradise lay
Well, I’m sorry, my son, but you’re too late in asking
Mister Peabody’s coal train has hauled it away

“He Stopped Loving Her Today” (George Jones)

What other song could be George Jones’ last, but “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” Unarguably Jones’ most famous offering, “He Stopped Loving Her Today” is equal parts somber and comforting. Parallel to that, Jones’ passing was devastating, but this song is a comfort that keeps on giving.

He said, “I’ll love you till I die”
She told him, “You’ll forget in time”
As the years went slowly by
She still preyed upon his mind

He kept her picture on his wall
Went half crazy now and then
But he still loved her through it all
Hoping she’d come back again

“Understand Your Man” (Johnny Cash)

Johnny Cash’s final song was “Understand Your Man.” He performed this bellowing country track amid an intimate performance, that would prove to be his last. Though this song doesn’t feel like the perfect send off for such a legendary voice, nothing could truly satisfy his fans.

And I ain’t gonna repeat
What I said any more
While I’m breathin’ air that ain’t been breathed before
I’ll be as gone as the wild goose in winter
Then you’ll understand your man, hear me talking out, honey

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