Tributes to Dolly Parton were abundant during a special Country Music Association (CMA) event held on 21 October 2026, celebrating the life and legacy of the music icon. The two-hour televised event, titled “CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton,” unfolded at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville and featured an array of performances from notable country artists.
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Carrie Underwood, a prominent figure in the country music scene, delivered a heartfelt rendition of Parton’s signature song, “I Will Always Love You”. Dressed in a striking white gown adorned with floral embellishments, Underwood concluded the evening with an emotionally charged performance, which garnered a standing ovation from the audience. Fellow artists Reba McEntire and Brad Paisley joined her on stage to sing the final chorus, adding to the moment’s poignancy.
The tribute to Parton, who passed away at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer, served not only as a tribute to her artistry but also showcased the profound impact she had on her fellow musicians. Underwood’s performance drew widespread acclaim, with many viewers recognising her as the ideal choice to close the memorable evening.
The night featured a diverse lineup of performers, including iconic figures such as Ashley McBryde, Darius Rucker, and Kelsea Ballerini, who infused the event with their distinctive interpretations of Parton’s timeless music. Highlights included Ella Langley’s soulful rendition of “Jolene” and Ballerini’s fresh take on “Here You Come Again.” Meanwhile, Little Big Town performed a heartfelt cover of “Light of a Clear Blue Morning,” further enriching the tribute’s appeal.
Longtime friend of Parton, Reba McEntire, paid homage with personal anecdotes from their early careers. She recalled her own Grand Ole Opry debut in 1977, a night that was supposed to feature her singing two songs. However, plans changed upon Parton’s arrival, leading to McEntire only performing one song that evening. Her fond memories of Parton included an enchanting description of how Parton looked as she passed backstage, which she reflected upon with warmth and admiration.
Other tributes came from stars like Sabrina Carpenter, who recorded a touching video, sharing the many facets of light that Parton brought into her life. Carpenter described Parton as a symbol of kindness, joy, and love, showcasing the universal appeal of the music legend. Similarly, Katy Perry, who attended the event, shared her sentiments on social media, recognising Parton as a blueprint for artists and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate her legacy.
The evening was marked by laughter and tears as artists paid their respects to the woman whose influence spanned generations. With musicians from various backgrounds uniting to honour Parton’s contributions to music and culture, the tribute became a gathering of shared love and respect for her remarkable talent.
In the wake of Parton’s passing, this special event served as a reminder not only of her monumental achievements in country music but also of the enduring affection she inspired in both her peers and fans alike. “CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton” stands as a testament to her legacy, capturing the spirit of a woman who will long be cherished in the heart of the music industry.
For those wishing to revisit the performances and emotional tributes, the special is available for streaming on Hulu, ensuring that Dolly Parton’s contributions to music are celebrated for years to come.