Willie Nelson fought back tears as his closest friends and fellow country legends came together to serenade him with Seven Spanish Angels, creating an unforgettable and deeply emotional moment.

As their voices filled the air, the poignant lyrics and the song’s history seemed to wash over the audience, leaving no one with dry eyes. Alison Krauss’ angelic voice soared through the melody, so pure and ethereal it felt like a glimpse of heaven itself.

Watching Willie, the last of a golden era of country music, visibly moved by the tribute, made the performance all the more powerful. For fans who have cherished his music for decades, this moment was far more than just a song—it was a living tribute to a legend whose voice and spirit have shaped country music for generations.

Holding back tears, Willie Nelson was clearly filled with emotion as his friends and incredible performers paid homage to his legacy in a once-in-a-lifetime performance.

The evening of the Gershwin Prize Awards Ceremony, held on November 18th, 2015, will remain etched in history as one of the most significant moments in country music. The Library of Congress presented Willie Nelson with an award recognizing a level of excellence in music that is rarely matched, a fitting honor for an artist whose influence has impacted millions.

Taking the stage to perform one of Nelson’s most cherished songs, country icons Alison Krauss and Jamey Johnson bared their souls with a powerful rendition of Seven Spanish Angels. Originally released as a duet between Nelson and Ray Charles in 1984, the song became one of Charles’ most successful on the country charts.

This performance, however, was unlike any version of the song before. It was a deeply emotional and heartfelt tribute that captured the essence of Nelson’s legendary career.

Watch as Jamey Johnson and Alison Krauss honor Willie Nelson in this moving performance in the video below.