CMA Brings Country Music’s Biggest Stars Together for a Special Dolly Parton Tribute

CMA Brings Country Music’s Biggest Stars Together for a Special Dolly Parton Tribute

Country music fans came together for a heartfelt celebration of Dolly Parton as the Country Music Association presented a special two-hour television event honoring the legendary singer’s extraordinary life, music, and lasting influence.

Titled CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton, the program aired Wednesday, October 21, on ABC and Disney+, bringing together celebrated performers for an evening filled with music, memories, and tributes to one of country music’s most influential figures.

The event was filmed before a live audience at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. The special featured musical performances, archival footage, and personal stories highlighting Dolly’s remarkable journey as a singer, songwriter, entertainer, philanthropist, and businesswoman.

A Star-Studded Lineup Celebrates Dolly’s Legacy

The tribute featured an impressive collection of artists representing different generations and styles of music. Among the performers were Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley, Vince Gill, Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, Darius Rucker, Zac Brown, and Little Big Town.

The lineup also included Ashley McBryde, Carly Pearce, Ella Langley, Kristin Chenoweth, Lady A, Lukas Nelson, Molly Tuttle, Ricky Skaggs, Sierra Hull, Béla Fleck, and other celebrated musicians.

Amy Grant and Kimberly Williams-Paisley appeared as special guests, while additional surprise tributes helped make the celebration even more memorable.

An Evening Filled With Music and Memories

Rather than focusing solely on Dolly’s greatest hits, the program explored the broader story behind her extraordinary career. Through performances, personal recollections, and archival material, viewers were invited to reflect on the songs and experiences that helped make her a beloved figure across generations.

Dolly’s influence extends well beyond the stage. Her songwriting, distinctive personality, generosity, and dedication to helping others have made her an enduring presence in American entertainment.

The celebration also highlighted her connection to Belmont University, which has collaborated with Dolly on projects celebrating her artistic achievements and contributions to the entertainment industry.

The Tribute Supports Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

The celebration also carried a charitable purpose. Proceeds from the event were designated to benefit Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the book-gifting initiative she established in 1995 to encourage a love of reading among young children.

The program reflects another important part of Dolly’s legacy: her commitment to education, literacy, and giving children opportunities to imagine a brighter future.

Following the broadcast, CMA and its partners announced a combined $1 million donation to the Imagination Library, extending the impact of the tribute beyond the music itself.

A Celebration for Generations of Fans

For longtime admirers and newer listeners alike, the special offered an opportunity to celebrate the music and generosity that have helped define Dolly Parton’s remarkable legacy.

With an outstanding lineup of performers, personal stories, and memorable songs, the event brought the country music community together for a tribute to an artist whose influence reaches far beyond any single performance.

The special is available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu.

What was your favorite performance or most unforgettable moment from CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton? Share your thoughts in the comments!