Kacey Musgraves Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Dolly Parton With ‘I Will Always Love You’ Performance at MTV Video Music Awards
Kacey Musgraves led a touching tribute to Dolly Parton at the MTV Video Music Awards 2026, honoring the late country icon just a month after her death with a rendition of “I Will Always Love You.” The pre-taped performance began with footage of Parton introducing the classic 1974
Kacey Musgraves' performance of "I Will Always Love You" at the MTV Video Music Awards was a poignant tribute to the legendary Dolly Parton, who passed away just a month prior. The choice of song was particularly fitting, as it was written by Parton herself and has become an iconic anthem. By covering this classic, Musgraves not only paid homage to Parton's enduring legacy but also showcased her own vocal range and emotional depth.
This performance matters in the context of the music industry, where tributes and cover songs often serve as a way to honor and celebrate the contributions of beloved artists. In this case, Musgraves' heartfelt rendition of "I Will Always Love You" served as a reminder of Parton's profound impact on country music and her status as a cultural icon. The use of footage featuring Parton introducing the song added an extra layer of authenticity and intimacy to the performance.
As the music world continues to process Parton's passing, fans and artists alike will be keeping a close eye on how her legacy is celebrated and honored in the months to come. With Musgraves' powerful performance still fresh in mind, it's worth watching to see how other artists choose to pay tribute to Parton in their own work. Will we see more covers of her songs, or perhaps new music inspired by her style and spirit? Whatever the case, it's clear that Dolly Parton's influence will continue to be felt for years to come.
Originally reported by variety.com. MusicNewsletter adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.