Dolly Parton was not there in person, but you would have never known it. Her presence was everywhere.
To close out the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th-anniversary celebration, some of country music’s biggest stars came together for a tribute that felt bigger than just a performance. Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, and Lady A led the way. At the same time, a stage full of Opry members stood behind them, singing along to one of the most legendary songs in country music history.
By the time the final note of “I Will Always Love You” rang out, the entire Opry House was on its feet.
A Song That Carried Even More Meaning
Before the tribute, a video message from Dolly Parton played on the big screen. She talked about how much the Opry has meant to her over the years and how proud she is to have been part of its family for 56 years.
The timing made it even harder. Just a few weeks earlier, Dolly lost her husband, Carl Dean, who passed away at 82. Reba took a moment to acknowledge the loss, sending love and prayers to Dolly on behalf of everyone in the Opry family.