Kellie Pickler’s return to the stage was marked by both sadness and strength. A year after the sudden death of her husband, Kyle Jacobs, Pickler took to the stage of the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville for the Walkin’ After Midnight: The Music of Patsy Cline concert. With palpable emotion, Picker confessed to being understandably nervous as she addressed the crowd, admitting it was her first time performing onstage since Jacobs’ passing.
Yet amidst the sorrow, Pickler found solace in honoring Patsy Cline, an artist who had deeply influenced her musical journey. She spoke of writing the song she would perform, ‘The Woman I Am,’ with Jacobs over a decade ago. Her performance was infused with memories, as she recalled the last time she had stood in the Ryman Auditorium with her husband.
Pickler expressed her belief that Jacobs was present with them that night, a sentiment that resonated with the audience. Joining Pickler on stage were a constellation of country music stars, including Sara Evans, Ashley McBryde, Mickey Guyton, Wynonna Judd, Kristin Chenoweth, Rita Wilson, Crystal Gayle, Pat Benatar, and Neil Giraldo.
In February 2023, Jacobs was found dead at his and Pickler’s home, his death ruled a suicide. The couple, who had married in 2011, had starred in their own reality show, ‘I Love Kellie Pickler,’ from 2015 to 2017.
Pickler has spoken openly about her husband’s death, seeking comfort in the support of her loved ones and fans. She shared her intention to heed Jacobs’ advice, which was to ‘do nothing, just be still’ in moments of uncertainty.
In an interview on TODAY, Pickler and Jacobs had expressed their gratitude for the strong support system they had around them. Jacobs acknowledged that navigating the challenges of being on-camera in their reality show had been an adjustment for him, as he was more accustomed to working behind the scenes.
Jacobs’ musical legacy extends beyond his work with Pickler, with songwriting credits for artists like Kelly Clarkson, Scotty McCreery, Kimberly Locke, Garth Brooks, and Tim McGraw. His talent and passion for music continue to be a testament to his life and love.
