In the recent “Austin City Limits 9th Annual Hall of Fame Honors Trisha Yearwood” special, the beloved country singer Trisha Yearwood was officially inducted into the prestigious Austin City Limits Hall of Fame. The touching induction ceremony was led by none other than Yearwood’s close friend, Don Henley. Amidst the heartfelt tribute, the duo took the opportunity to revisit the enchanting magic of their 1992 hit, “Walkaway Joe,” treating the audience to a truly unforgettable performance.
Addressing the crowd, Yearwood expressed her gratitude to Henley, stating, “I can’t imagine being on this stage and being honored by Don Henley and not asking him if he would come up here and help me finish my portion of the show.” Her appreciation for Henley’s unwavering support was palpable as they seamlessly transitioned into their duet.
As they serenaded the audience with their timeless collaboration, the chemistry between Yearwood and Henley was undeniable. Their voices intertwined effortlessly, evoking the same emotion and nostalgia that made “Walkaway Joe” a classic in the first place. After their mesmerizing performance, the duo shared a warm embrace, underscoring the depth of their enduring friendship in a truly touching moment.
“Walkaway Joe,” penned by Vince Melamed and Greg Barnhill, originally featured Yearwood with background vocals from Henley. The heartfelt ballad, released in 1992 as the second single from Yearwood’s album “Hearts in Armor,” resonated deeply with listeners, soaring to number 2 on the U.S. Billboard country charts. The addition of actor Matthew McConaughey in the accompanying music video added an extra layer of star power to the song’s legacy.
The Austin City Limits Hall of Fame serves as a tribute to legendary musicians who have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Since its inception in 2014, the Hall of Fame has become a cherished celebration of musical greatness, honoring icons such as Willie Nelson and Stevie Ray Vaughan. This year, the spotlight shone on John Prine and Trisha Yearwood, with the 9th Annual Hall of Fame Honors showcasing their remarkable contributions to music. Recorded live in Austin, Texas, the special episode offered viewers an intimate glimpse into the festivities, with dedicated hours dedicated to each esteemed artist.