Lainey Wilson Sings “God Blessed Texas” at Brandon Blackstock’s Funeral, Bringing Everyone to Tears
The funeral of Brandon Blackstock, music manager and former husband of Kelly Clarkson, was already a deeply emotional gathering. Family, friends, and loved ones had come together to honor a man whose life and career left an indelible mark on many.
But in one unforgettable moment, country star Lainey Wilson stepped forward to perform “God Blessed Texas,” delivering a heartfelt tribute that moved the entire room to tears.
A Song That Carried Special Meaning
While “God Blessed Texas” is often associated with upbeat celebrations and Texas pride, its performance at Brandon’s funeral took on a profoundly different tone. Those close to him said the song was one of his favorites, a nod to his Texas roots and a reminder of his love for home, family, and the life he built.
Lainey Wilson, known for her rich, soulful voice and emotional delivery, chose to strip the song down to its essence. Backed only by an acoustic guitar, she sang slowly, her voice carrying a mixture of sorrow and warmth. The familiar lyrics transformed into a tender farewell, a way of honoring the man who had touched so many lives both personally and professionally.
Kelly Clarkson’s Emotional Reaction
Kelly Clarkson, who had a long and complicated history with Brandon, was visibly overcome as Lainey began to sing. Witnesses say she clutched her hands tightly, her eyes fixed on the stage, tears streaming down her face. Though their marriage had ended in divorce, the love they once shared and the family they built together made the loss all the more painful.
Friends close to Kelly said the song’s lyrics — with their themes of gratitude and blessing — felt like a fitting send-off for someone who had been such a central figure in her life. “It wasn’t about the past or the hurt,” one attendee said. “In that moment, it was about saying thank you and goodbye.”
A Room United in Grief
As the final chorus faded, the entire room stood in silence, some swaying gently, others holding one another. Even those who had never met Brandon personally felt the weight of the tribute. The performance became a shared moment of connection, allowing everyone present to grieve together.
Melissa Ashworth, Brandon’s first wife, was seen wiping away tears as she sat with her children. She later hugged Lainey, thanking her for capturing the essence of who Brandon was through her voice.
More Than Just a Performance
For Lainey Wilson, the song was more than a setlist choice — it was a personal tribute. She had crossed paths with Brandon through the country music circuit and had come to respect him for his dedication to artists and his unwavering Texas spirit. Singing “God Blessed Texas” at his funeral was her way of saying goodbye in the language both she and Brandon understood best: music.
As the crowd slowly dispersed, many spoke about how the song would forever be linked to that day. It was not just a performance, but a memory — one of love, respect, and the bittersweet beauty of a farewell.
