Kelsea Ballerini’s tribute to Dolly Parton at a country music celebration grew from an admiration that began long before Ballerini became a star herself. On October 21, she joined the performers at CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton, honoring the singer whose music and example had shaped her since childhood.
Ballerini performed Parton’s 1977 hit “Here You Come Again” during the two-hour special, held at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville. She grew up listening to Parton and visiting Dollywood, and has likened the singer’s distant but reassuring influence to that of a “fair godmother.”
The performance was one of many tributes at the event, but it carried a personal meaning for Ballerini. She encouraged the audience to sing along, making the song a shared celebration rather than a moment kept to the stage. At its close, she summed up her affection for Parton with the words, “We love you, Miss Dolly.”
### An example beyond the music
Ballerini has also spoken about what Parton represents as a woman in entertainment. She sees the singer as a trailblazer who challenged expectations without giving up femininity or the sparkle that is part of her public image. Parton’s example, Ballerini has said, shows that ambition and influence can coexist with an unapologetically feminine style.
That perspective made the evening a celebration not only of a familiar song, but also of the influence Parton has had on artists who followed her. Images of love, magic and butterflies appeared around Ballerini’s performance, reflecting qualities she associates with the country star.
The special brought together artists from different generations and genres, including Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, Vince Gill, Brad Paisley, Lainey Wilson and Little Big Town. Bono, Carol Burnett, Goldie Hawn, Julia Roberts and Oprah Winfrey were among the friends and entertainment figures who also paid tribute. Amy Grant and Kimberly Williams-Paisley appeared as special guests.
Broadcast on ABC and Disney+ in the United States and internationally, the program is also available on Hulu. The CMA and Belmont University pledged a portion of its proceeds to Parton’s Imagination Library. Together, their contribution amounted to $1 million for the program, which provides books to children.
For Ballerini, the appearance brought together a beloved Parton song and a longstanding source of inspiration. Her tribute recognized a legacy built on music, individuality and the possibility of breaking barriers while remaining true to oneself.
