Vince Gill says it was a “hard yes” to speak and sing at the Kennedy Center Honors in late 2025, despite the fact that the venue has become a controversial one during U.S. President Donald Trump’s second term.
The reason why he was so willing to play the event had nothing to do with politics. He was there to tribute his longtime friend and one of the night’s honorees, George Strait.
“George has been my friend for 43 years and I did it for George,” Gill explains during a new appearance on Rolling Stone’s Nashville Now podcast.
Why Did Vince Gill Perform at the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors?
Gill had the honor of speaking on Strait’s behalf. Later on in the night, he’d sing Strait’s “Troubadour,” becoming one of three to perform during the tribute (Brooks & Dunn and Miranda Lambert also sang for Strait.)
Several artists have turned down performance slots at the Kennedy Center in recent years due to changes in the venue from Trump’s administration. But Gill says he didn’t want to highlight that controversy.
“I’m not gonna try to make a point. I’m not gonna try to encourage anybody else to think like I do. You don’t see me out there stumping for anybody,” the singer reflected.
What Does Vince Gill Think of President Trump?
Gill didn’t directly name Trump in his interview with Rolling Stone, but he made it clear who he was talking about — and that he’s not a huge fan of the administration.
