A star-studded tribute to Dolly Parton has raised $1 million for her Imagination Library, supporting the late country music legend’s mission to inspire children’s love of reading. More Entertainment News
Following the television special CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton, the Country Music Association (CMA) announced the donation in partnership with Belmont University, The Walt Disney Company, and the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.
The tribute, filmed at Belmont University in Nashville, brought together some of country music’s biggest names to celebrate Parton’s life, music, and lasting legacy following her death in August.
While the concert highlighted Parton’s remarkable career, the donation honors one of her most meaningful philanthropic efforts.
Parton founded Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in 1995 in her hometown of Sevierville, Tennessee, inspired by her father’s inability to read and write. The program provides free, age-appropriate books to young children, encouraging early literacy and a lifelong love of reading.
“Dolly has always brought people together, and we built last night’s event with that same intention,” said CMA CEO Sarah Trahern. “Because of the artists who took that stage and the partners who stood beside us, a night full of her music resulted in a $1 million donation to Imagination Library, so that children for years to come can open a mailbox and find a book with their name on it.”
The tribute featured performances by Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood, Vince Gill, Lainey Wilson, Brad Paisley, Kelsea Ballerini, Little Big Town, Darius Rucker and several other artists.
Highlights included Ashley McBryde performing “Coat of Many Colors,” Ella Langley singing “Jolene,” Carly Pearce and Kristin Chenoweth teaming up for “9 to 5,” and Reba McEntire performing “He’s Alive” alongside Belmont Singers.
Carrie Underwood joined the full cast to perform “I Will Always Love You,” while Zac Brown performed “Butterfly” with a recorded vocal duet with Parton.
“Dolly knew that a single book could change the course of a child’s life,” said Belmont University President Dr. Greg Jones. “As a university, we see every day how a love of learning opens doors and shapes who young people become. It was a joy to celebrate her life on our campus, and we’re grateful to play a part in putting more books into children’s hands.”
Deana Ivey, president and CEO of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp, also recognized Parton’s contributions to Music City.
“She was one of Music City’s greatest ambassadors, introducing Nashville to fans around the world and inspiring so many to visit and experience the music and creativity that make our city special,” Ivey said.
Jeff Conyers, president and vice chair of The Dollywood Foundation, said the donation is a fitting way to continue Parton’s legacy.
“I couldn’t think of a more meaningful way to celebrate Dolly’s life than by investing in the dreams of future generations,” Conyers said.
CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton is now available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu.
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