We clearly recall that on May 9, 1989, one of the greatest pillars of contemporary country music passed away. Jackie Keith Whitley or simply known as Keith Whitley tragically died, leaving behind his wife, Lorrie Morgan, and his son, Jesse Keith Whitley. Keith was 33 years old and his death was because of acute ethanolism (alcohol poisoning).

As a matter of fact, his son, Jesse Keith, was just more than a year old when his father passed away. Hence, his way of connecting with his father while growing up was through his music. Nonetheless, his mother, Lorrie, was there to guide him and there is no doubt that he was brought up very well.

The Mother-Son Duet: “Don’t Close Your Eyes”

Jesse Keith grew up to be like his father. In fact, a lot of people and friends say that he has a spitting image of his father. Also, the voice of Keith seems to be resurrected in his son.

More than five months ago, Jesse Keith took the stage at the Choctaw Casino in Oklahoma to perform a memorable duet. His special guest was his mom. Then, the mother and son heated the stage on fire as they remembered the legendary country artist, Keith Whitley. They sang a breathtaking rendition of Keith’s 1988 hit, “Don’t Close Your Eyes.” This was one of the songs that he released a year before he died.

NASHVILLE, TN – MARCH 02: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) Recording Artist Lorrie Morgan (R) introduces her son Singer/Songwriter Jesse Keith Whitley (L) During CRS Country Music Seminar at the Renaissance Hotel on March 2, 2011, in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Rick Diamond/Getty Images)

As Jesse Keith started singing his father’s signature song, the audience cannot contain their emotions. Everyone cheered and applause was heard all over the casino. The moment he blew the words “I know you loved him” was the moment the crowd also started cheering. In fact, one of the fans even shouted,

“Sing it, Jesse!”

With the audience’s reaction, Lorrie Morgan became a little emotional. She is trying to hold back her tears as she harmonizes with her son’s melody. Overall, the performance of the mother-son duo was as tasty and meaningful as it gets. We are pretty sure that Keith Whitley would be very proud and happy with his family remembering him.

Check out this poignant cover of “Don’t Close Your Eyes” by Jesse Keith Whitley and Lorrie Morgan: