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Country stars Jelly Roll and Carly Pearce delivered a heartfelt tribute to Dolly Parton during a special event at the Grand Ole Opry on August 29. The Nashville show honored the legendary singer, who passed away on August 25 at the age of 80 after a private battle with cancer.
The sold-out evening was not only a celebration of Parton’s enduring legacy but also a fundraiser, with a portion of ticket sales benefiting her nonprofit organization, the Imagination Library. This foundation promotes childhood literacy by distributing over one million free books to children every month.
The tribute featured memorable performances from a lineup of artists including Kathy Mattea, who sang “Jolene,” Dan Tyminski performing “Smile When You’re Alone,” and Ketch Secor alongside Molly Tuttle with “Just Someone I Used to Know.” Additional acts included T. Graham Brown, Belle Frantz, Channing Wilson, and Jada Star, Dolly Parton’s niece.
The emotional evening culminated with the entire cast coming together on stage for a rendition of Parton’s classic hit “9 to 5.” Fans were surprised by Jelly Roll’s appearance, adding to the night’s significance. The tribute closed with a poignant video of Dolly Parton performing “I Will Always Love You,” as the performers reflected on her influence.
Earlier in the week, Jelly Roll also paid tribute to Parton while guest-hosting on Jimmy Kimmel Live! He spoke warmly about her impact, recalling how her music was a cherished part of his family life growing up in Tennessee.
“We lost a legend today, the great Dolly Parton,” he said. “She was such an inspiration to so many, myself included.
We used to sit around the kitchen table and listen to her music together as a family. I’ll never forget it.”
The tribute at the Grand Ole Opry underscored the lasting mark Dolly Parton has left on country music and the lives of fans worldwide.