Ella Langley Brings a Fresh Sound to Dolly Parton’s Beloved Classic “Jolene”
Ella Langley delivered a memorable performance of “Jolene,” one of Dolly Parton’s most iconic songs, at CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton. With her signature country twang and distinctive vocal style, the rising star gave the timeless classic a fresh sound while preserving the spirit of the original that has captivated generations of listeners.
Taking the stage at Belmont University, Langley turned heads in an elegant cream-colored gown adorned with intricate rhinestone detailing across its sheer mesh sleeves. Her softly styled updo completed the sophisticated look, adding a touch of understated glamour to the occasion.
Performing a song as legendary as “Jolene” is no small challenge, particularly given the lasting impact of Parton’s original recording. Yet Langley found a way to make the song her own without losing the qualities that made it so beloved.
Her distinctive, twang-filled vocals breathed new life into the familiar lyrics, showcasing her individuality as an artist while creating an immediate connection with the audience. Throughout the performance, concertgoers could be heard singing along, adding to the memorable atmosphere.
Katy Perry Pays Tribute to Dolly Parton’s Legacy
Before Langley took the stage, Katy Perry introduced the performance with heartfelt words celebrating Dolly Parton’s authenticity, kindness, and extraordinary ability to bring people together despite their differences.
Perry described the country music legend as both “devastatingly sharp and equally as sweet,” praising the generosity of spirit that has allowed Parton to influence so many people throughout her remarkable career.
“For me, Dolly is the blueprint. She proved you don’t have to sacrifice softness to show your strength. You could love God while looking like a sinner, and you could be larger than life without ever making anyone else feel small,” Perry told the audience.
She went on to explain that Parton’s lessons have remained with her throughout her own journey. The legendary singer has shared her distinctive charm and generous spirit with younger female artists, and Perry viewed the evening as another opportunity for that influence to be passed along.
Her introduction underscored the deeper meaning of the celebration: it was not simply an acknowledgment of Parton’s musical achievements, but also a tribute to the values she has inspired in the next generation of performers.
A Star-Studded Celebration Bringing Together Multiple Generations
CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton brought together performers from different generations and musical backgrounds, including members of the Country Music Hall of Fame, contemporary country superstars, acclaimed bluegrass musicians, and celebrated Broadway performers.
The impressive lineup featured Ashley McBryde, Béla Fleck, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, Carrie Underwood, Darius Rucker, Ella Langley, Kelsea Ballerini, Kristen Bell, Kristin Chenoweth, Lady A, Lainey Wilson, Little Big Town, Lukas Nelson, Molly Tuttle, Reba McEntire, Ricky Skaggs, Sierra Hull, Vince Gill, and Zac Brown.
Amy Grant and Kimberly Williams-Paisley also joined the celebration as special guests.
Beyond the musical performances, the program featured tributes from some of Parton’s friends and longtime connections across the entertainment industry. Bono, Carol Burnett, Goldie Hawn, Julia Roberts, and Oprah Winfrey were among those who contributed to the evening’s celebrations.
The diversity of the lineup reflected Parton’s far-reaching influence, which extends beyond country music into numerous areas of entertainment and popular culture.
A Live Broadcast With a Charitable Purpose
The two-hour special was broadcast live from Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, on ABC and Disney+ in the United States and internationally on October 21, 2026. Filmed before a live audience at the university’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, the program is also scheduled to become available on Hulu the following day.
Alongside its celebration of Parton’s music and enduring legacy, the event supported a charitable cause. The Country Music Association and Belmont University will donate a portion of the proceeds to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
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The organization is known for providing free books to children each month, helping nurture a love of reading from an early age.
Through its musical performances, heartfelt tributes, and charitable initiative, the special celebrated not only one of country music’s most influential figures but also the lasting impact she has had on artists, communities, and generations of fans.
Langley’s rendition of “Jolene” stood out as a memorable moment of the evening, demonstrating how a younger artist can bring a fresh perspective to a beloved classic while preserving the qualities that have secured its place in Dolly Parton’s extraordinary musical legacy.