Kellie Pickler returns to stage for the first time since husband Kyle Jacobs' death

The singer performed "The Woman I Am," a song she co-wrote with Jacobs, during a Patsy Cline tribute show.

Kellie Pickler made an emotional, triumphant return to the stage more than a year after her husband's death to perform at a tribute to music legend Patsy Cline.

On Monday evening, Pickler took to the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville for Walkin' After Midnight: The Music of Patsy Cline, an all-star concert honoring Cline.

"I'd be lying if I didn't say I was incredibly nervous right now," Pickler said, addressing the audience. "It's the first time I've been up on stage in a while."

She continued, "I will say that I am incredibly honored to be a part of honoring Ms. Patsy Cline. She is a huge reason why I fell in love with music."

Other performers included Sara Evans, Ashley McBryde, Mickey Guyton, Wynonna Judd, Kristin Chenoweth, Rita Wilson, Crystal Gayle, Pat Benatar, and Neil Giraldo. 

Pickler went on to introduce a song she and her late husband, Kyle Jacobs, wrote together "over a decade ago" — "The Woman I Am." The 37-year-old recalled that the last time she was at the Ryman Auditorium was with Jacobs on a date night.

"I know he is here with us tonight," she said.

Jacobs died by suicide in February 2023, at 49. An accomplished guitarist and pianist, he wrote for numerous country artists including Garth Brooks, Trace Adkins, Tim McGraw, Kelly Clarkson, Scotty McCreery, and his wife. He also collaborated with Darius Rucker and Wynonna.

Six months after Jacobs' death, Pickler broke her silence in a statement thanking friends, family, and fans for their support.

"It has truly touched my soul and it's helping me get through the darkest time in my life," Pickler wrote. "As many of you have told me, you are all in my prayers."

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Related content:

• Kellie Pickler breaks silence months after husband's death, thanks fans for love and support

• Kyle Jacobs, songwriter and Kellie Pickler's husband, dies at 49

• Kellie Pickler on 'Feeling Tonight,' her new album and what it's like to work with her husband
  

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