Dolly Parton’s legacy gets special tribute from CMA

Dolly Parton’s legacy took centre stage in new heartfelt tribute.

Three weeks after Dolly’s death, the Country Music Association made an announcement on ABC’s official website on September 16 that the organization will honor the late country music legend with a two-hour special tribute called I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton.

A statement was released alongside the announcement in which CMA’s CEO Sarah Trahern highlighted the significance of the tribute, stating, “a joyful, emotional celebration of the artist, songwriter, entertainer, humanitarian and entrepreneur whose music and generosity carried her from the mountains of east Tennessee into the hearts of generations around the world, told through performances, archival footage and personal stories that trace her extraordinary journey to becoming one of the most beloved entertainers and philanthropists in American history.”

Noting, “Dolly Parton belonged to the whole world, but she was born of this industry, and this industry owes her a debt of gratitude that words alone cannot repay.”

“As the organization built to serve and celebrate Country Music, honoring her legacy is not just an opportunity, it is our responsibility. This special is our way of saying thank you, on behalf of every artist, industry member and fan who found a piece of themselves in her music,” the statement further read.

On the other hand, the tribute’s executive producer stated, “Dolly gave Country Music its heart, and giving some of that heart back to her is an incredible honor.”

“My hope is simply that we do right by her story, her music and the people who love her, so that this evening feels like the tribute my friend deserves,” he added.

It is pertinent to mention that the two-hour special tribute is set to air on October 21 on ABC and Disney.