Lainey Wilson Delivers a Powerful Performance of Dolly Parton’s Bluegrass Classic at CMA Tribute
Lainey Wilson brought the spirit of Dolly Parton’s bluegrass legacy to life during a star-studded tribute celebrating the legendary singer’s music and influence. Performing “Train, Train” from Parton’s 1999 album The Grass Is Blue, Wilson delivered one of the evening’s memorable musical moments at CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton on Wednesday night.
The two-hour special honored Parton following her death on August 25, bringing together country music stars for performances that reflected different sides of her remarkable career. Among them was Wilson, whose connection with Parton extended beyond the stage into a friendship she described as both unexpected and deeply meaningful.
Lainey Wilson Honors Dolly With “Train, Train”
Wilson’s performance of “Train, Train” celebrated Parton’s enduring love of bluegrass music. Originally featured on The Grass Is Blue, the song offered Wilson an opportunity to pay tribute to an important part of Parton’s musical identity.
Later in the evening, Wilson teamed up with Lukas Nelson for a duet of “You Can’t Make Old Friends,” adding another collaborative moment to the tribute.
Wilson had previously recorded “Mama She’s Crazy” with Parton for a tribute album honoring The Judds, released in October 2023. That collaboration helped bring the two singers closer, eventually developing into a friendship Wilson spoke about with evident affection.
During an appearance on Nova 96.9’s Ricki-Lee & Tim in Sydney, Australia, Wilson reflected on how their relationship had grown.
“It’s insane. She has become a dear friend, which is also weird for me to say,” she shared.
Wilson also praised Parton’s achievements, describing her as an extraordinary person and businesswoman who continued to forge her own path.
Lainey Wilson Recalls Her Final Phone Call With Dolly Parton
Following Parton’s death in August, Wilson shared an emotional tribute on social media, revealing that the two had spoken by phone just a few weeks before the singer died.
The conversation gave Wilson a final opportunity to connect with her friend and discuss both their professional lives and the people closest to them.
“My Dolly. 💛 I felt like you were my friend before we even met…you made everybody feel that way,” Wilson wrote.
She explained that once their friendship began, they found plenty to talk about. Wilson was especially grateful that Parton had called her in the weeks before her death, allowing them to discuss the realities of their careers, the sacrifices involved, and their relationships.
According to Wilson, their conversation touched on Parton’s deep love for her husband, Carl Dean, as well as Wilson’s relationship with Duck.
She recalled Parton offering her some personal advice about making room for both partners to remain true to themselves.
“You told me that ‘it’s all great and stuff that Duck lets you be you, but you better make sure you let Duck be himself too,’” Wilson wrote.
The exchange offered a glimpse into the warmth and thoughtfulness that Wilson valued in her friend. Beyond her success as a performer and businesswoman, Parton had taken the time to share advice drawn from her own life and relationships.
A Farewell Filled With Love, Faith and Gratitude
Wilson’s tribute also reflected on Parton’s faith and the extraordinary gift she had shared with the world through her music.
“I am thankful the Lord gave you a gift, you decided to share it, and the Lord decided to share you with us,” she wrote.
She ended her message with a simple but heartfelt farewell:
“I will always love you, my friend. 💛”
For Wilson, performing “Train, Train” at the CMA tribute was more than an opportunity to celebrate one of Parton’s songs. It was a way to honor the musical traditions that shaped the country icon, as well as the personal bond they had developed over time.
From their collaboration on the Judds tribute album to their final phone conversation, Wilson’s memories revealed a relationship built on mutual admiration, meaningful conversations and genuine affection.
As artists gathered to celebrate Parton’s legacy, Wilson’s performance and personal reflections served as a reminder that Parton’s influence reached far beyond her catalogue of beloved songs. She inspired musicians through her talent, encouraged others through her advice, and left behind memories that those who knew her will continue to cherish.