Kellie Pickler made an emotional return to the stage with her first performance after her husband, Kyle Jacobs, died by suicide in February 2023. Pickler, 37, performed at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee on April 22nd as part of “Walkin’ After Midnight,” a tribute event dedicated to the late Patsy Cline. “I’d be lying if I didn’t say I was incredibly nervous right now,” she said. “It’s the first time I’ve been up on stage in a while.”

The “American Idol” alum introduced her song, “The Woman I am,” sharing the special meaning it has. “My husband and I actually wrote this song together, gosh, over a decade ago,” she said. “The last time I was here in the Ryman Auditorium was with him on a date night, and I know he is here with us tonight.” She added, “Thank y’all so much for having me. I’m going to do the best I can.”

@musicmayhemmagazine.com #KelliePickler returned to the stage to honor late country music icon #PatsyCline with a special performance of “The Woman I Am,” a song she co-wrote with her late husband, Kyle Jacobs. @Kellie Pickler ♬ original sound – Music Mayhem

Pickler’s husband sadly passed away in February 2023 after being found inside their home from an apparent suicide. Jacobs, who was only 49 at the time, was a songwriter who worked with artists like Garth Brooks and Tim McGraw. Pickler broke her silence in August 2023 in a statement saying,  “One of the most beautiful lessons my husband taught me was in a moment of a crisis, if you don’t know what to do, ‘do nothing, just be still.’ I have chosen to heed his advice.” She continued, “Thank you to my family, friends, and supporters, for the countless letters, calls, and messages that you have sent my way. It has truly touched my soul and it’s helping me get through the darkest time in my life. As many of you have told me, you are all in my prayers.”