AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today September 16, 2026
Tennessee is set to honor one of its most celebrated icons as a dolly parton tribute takes center stage this October. The Country Music Association (CMA) will present a live, two-hour event titled “CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton,” to be broadcast from Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. Airing live on October 21, 2026, at 8 p.m. CST via ABC stations and Disney+, the tribute will bring together artists, fans, and communities across Tennessee and beyond to commemorate Dolly Parton’s profound impact on music and culture.
Honoring a Country Music Legend
Known for spanning generations and genres, Dolly Parton has shaped the spirit of country music with enduring hits, philanthropy, and her unique artistry. The upcoming cma tribute will highlight her journey from East Tennessee’s humble beginnings to a global stage. The event is designed not only as entertainment but as a poignant reflection on Parton’s influence as an artist, humanitarian, and entrepreneur, solidifying her statewide and international legacy.
Belmont University Hosts the Live Tribute Special
Belmont University, a respected institution in Nashville, will serve as the venue for this live tribute special. The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts is expected to be filled with luminaries from across the music industry, university students, and local fans, all paying their respects to the legendary singer-songwriter. The partnership between CMA and belmont university underscores the significance of Parton’s lifelong dedication to nurturing new talent and supporting music education throughout Tennessee.
A Night of Music, Memories, and Storytelling
The tribute will feature a lineup of heartfelt performances by artists influenced by Parton’s work. Audiences can look forward to tribute performances showcasing both her classic and contemporary catalog. The night will also include exclusive archival footage and personal anecdotes that paint a complete picture of the dolly parton legacy. Highlights from Parton’s decades-long career will be interwoven with stories about her enduring compassion and entrepreneurial spirit.
Supporting the Imagination Library
In addition to paying homage to Parton’s musical journey, the event has a philanthropic dimension. Proceeds from the tribute will be donated to the imagination library, a literacy initiative founded by Parton. The program, rooted in Tennessee, has provided millions of free books to children around the world, embodying her commitment to education and community upliftment. Supporting the Imagination Library broadens the significance of the celebration, ensuring her impact continues to be felt by future generations.
Live Broadcast to Reach Fans Nationwide
For those unable to attend in person, the live broadcast ensures that Parton’s story and music will resonate nationwide. Fans will experience a night dedicated to dolly parton music as the tribute streams live on ABC and Disney+. The cma celebration is positioned as a major moment in the broader country music celebration calendar, connecting audiences from large cities to small towns throughout Tennessee and beyond.
A Community United in Celebration
The passing of Dolly Parton on August 25, 2026, marked the end of an era for country music. However, her legacy remains vibrantly alive in the hearts of her fans and the communities she inspired. According to CMA CEO Sarah Trahern, this special event represents the heartfelt gratitude of the entire country music community. “Her contributions reach far beyond music and will forever shape our industry,” Trahern noted, speaking to the overwhelming response from artists and fans eager to celebrate Parton’s enduring legacy in her home state and beyond.
