Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson Moved to Tears by Craig Morgan’s Tribute to His Late Son

“The Father, My Son, and The Holy Ghost” Becomes a Viral Symbol of Healing and Hope

In the summer of 2016, country music star Craig Morgan faced every parent’s worst nightmare. His beloved 19-year-old son, Jerry, tragically lost his life in a tubing accident on Kentucky Lake in Tennessee. The sudden loss shattered Craig’s world — but in the stillness of grief, something deeply spiritual happened.

One night, at 2:30 a.m., Craig was awakened by a melody forming in his mind — a chorus so vivid and emotional, it was as if it had been gifted to him in a dream. “I was singing the entire chorus in my head before I even fully woke up,” he told People. And with that, he began writing what would become one of the most powerful songs in country music history:
“The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost.”

A Song of Loss That Found Its Way to Millions

When Craig Morgan first performed “The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost” at the Grand Ole Opry in July 2019, he intended it to be a one-time tribute — a personal moment of healing through music. The song, written in memory of his late son Jerry, was raw, deeply emotional, and never meant for widespread release.

But backstage that night stood fellow country icon Ricky Skaggs, who offered Craig a piece of advice that would shift everything.

“You have to share this,” Skaggs told him. “People need to hear it.”

Encouraged by that moment, Craig released the song on iTunes — unaware of the movement it would soon inspire.

Blake Shelton’s Support Turns Grief into a Chart-Topping Tribute

Moved deeply by the song’s message, Blake Shelton — a close friend and longtime supporter — took it upon himself to make sure more people heard it. Using his platform, Blake launched an impassioned campaign on social media to elevate Craig’s song, even if it meant pushing his own music aside.

Through daily tweets, shout-outs to fans, country radio, and fellow artists, Blake built momentum. And it worked. The song not only climbed to the top of the iTunes Country chart, but it also hit #1 on the overall iTunes chart — a remarkable achievement for such a personal and heartfelt piece.

“Congratulations @cmorganmusic. This one’s for Jerry,” Blake wrote in celebration.

Craig responded with sincere thanks:

“Blake Shelton. You are an awesome friend and champion for country music. We love ya, and I cannot thank you enough.”

A Tearful Moment on National Television

The emotional impact of the song reached new heights during a special appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Joined by Blake Shelton in the studio, Craig Morgan performed the ballad live. As the lyrics filled the room, Kelly Clarkson, Blake, and guest Eva Mendes were visibly overcome — sitting in silence as tears streamed down their faces.

By the song’s final note, all three stood in heartfelt applause. It was a powerful reminder of the healing that music can offer — a performance that left both the room and viewers at home deeply moved.