20+ Country Stars Close Out Dolly Parton Tribute With “I Will Always Love You”
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More than a dozen country stars joined forces to perform an emotional farewell to beloved musical icon Dolly Parton.
On Wednesday, October 21, country music stars came together for CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration Of Dolly Parton. Held live at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, the special honored Dolly’s remarkable life and career through a combination of live musical tributes, archival footage, and heartfelt personal anecdotes.
The evening featured an impressive roster of performers, including Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood, Ella Langley, Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs, Ashley McBryde, Lady A, Darius Rucker, and more.
Beyond celebrating Dolly’s enduring impact on music and entertainment, the event also supported a cause close to her heart. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the world’s leading early childhood book-gifting program and the flagship initiative of The Dollywood Foundation.
Stars Join Forces For Emotional Finale Performance On Dolly Parton Special
The evening was heavy with emotion, as Dolly’s friends, colleagues, and collaborators remembered her through song. The final performance of the night was delivered by Carrie Underwood, who choked back tears as she sang Dolly’s “I Will Always Love You.”
Originally released in 1973, Dolly wrote the song as a farewell to her business partner and mentor, Porter Wagoner, expressing her gratitude but also her decision to pursue a solo career. The lyrics still resonate with listeners five decades later.
“I hope life treats you kind
And I hope that you have all
That you ever dreamed of
And I wish you joy
And happiness
But above all of this
I wish you love
And I will always love you”
Gradually, the full lineup of musicians and singers joined Carrie on stage and lent their voices to the iconic ballad. The emotion of the moment was palpable and created the perfect ending to a night in memory of one of country music’s most enduring stars.
Watch the final performance from CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration Of Dolly Parton in the video below.
