Kacey Musgraves delivered a poignant tribute to Dolly Parton during the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, performing the iconic song “I Will Always Love You.”
During the awards ceremony held on Sunday, Musgraves began her performance with a video clip of Parton herself singing the beloved hit, joining in for the final verses. Following this, she offered a stripped-back piano-and-vocal rendition that showcased her heartfelt admiration for the country legend.
A Stellar Performance
Donning a dazzling gown, Musgraves took to the stage in a pre-taped segment, as she was concurrently performing at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena for her Middle of Nowhere tour. This marked Musgraves’ return to the VMAs after a five-year hiatus, during which she earned a nomination in the country category for her song “Dry Spell.”
A Continuing Tribute
Musgraves has consistently honored Parton following her passing on August 25, reflecting on the significant impact the singer had on her life. Acknowledging Parton as “a supernova of a person,” Musgraves has paid homage to her on tour, performing tracks like “9 to 5” in New York and “Here You Come Again” in Boston. At Madison Square Garden, she expressed how Parton’s loss resonated deeply with her and the audience. “The world definitely lost a light, and it’s hard for me to talk about,” she communicated to fans, recognizing the weight of the moment amidst challenging times.
As Musgraves continues her tour, fans can expect more heartfelt tributes celebrating Parton’s legacy and influence in the country music landscape.