Music Stars Honor Dolly Parton in Nashville Tribute Special

Nearly two months after the passing of country music icon Dolly Parton at age 80, the entertainment industry gathered in Nashville to celebrate her extraordinary life and career. The Country Music Association hosted a two-hour tribute special titled "CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton" on Wednesday night at Belmont University's Fisher Center for the Performing Arts.

The star-studded event aired live on ABC and Disney+, featuring musical performances, archival footage, and heartfelt stories from artists across generations. Parton died on August 25, 2026, following a brief battle with cancer, a loss that profoundly impacted fans and fellow musicians worldwide.

Among the performers was Reba McEntire, who delivered a personal tribute with a rendition of "He's Alive," a song Parton recorded for her 1989 album White Limozeen. During the special, McEntire recalled meeting Parton for the first time at the Grand Ole Opry in 1977, describing her as looking like an angel in a rhinestone-decorated pantsuit.

Pop star Sabrina Carpenter, who previously collaborated with Parton on a remix of "Please Please Please," also shared her admiration for the late legend. Carpenter praised Parton for embodying kindness, joy, rhinestones, and love, noting that she was one of the few figures on Earth universally beloved by people everywhere.

The lineup for the evening included numerous prominent country acts such as Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley, Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, Darius Rucker, and Little Big Town, alongside appearances by Kristin Chenoweth, Katy Perry, and other special guests. Proceeds from the live-taped event benefited Parton's Imagination Library.

In addition to the musical celebration, Parton's final recorded work is scheduled for release on November 13, 2026, featuring a collaboration on the track "Torn" from U2's upcoming album Carnaval de Luz. Her extensive contributions to music, film, and philanthropy continue to be remembered and celebrated by audiences globally.