Kelly Clarkson paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary country singer, Dolly Parton, at the 53rd Academy of Country Music Awards (ACM). The emotional performance took place on April 15th, 2018, in Las Vegas.
Clarkson began the segment by applauding Parton’s iconic career, stating, “She’s been such an influence in my life. She’s also given us great music.” The American Idol winner went on to highlight Parton’s immense talent, her ability to cross genres, and her impact on the music industry.
The tribute began with a stirring medley of Parton’s hit songs, performed by Clarkson and several other female country music stars, including Reba McEntire, Kelsea Ballerini, and Carrie Underwood.
The medley included beloved classics such as “9 to 5,” “Jolene,” and “I Will Always Love You.”
As the medley progressed, Clarkson’s admiration for Parton became evident. Her powerful vocals and emotional delivery resonated with the audience, showcasing the deep connection she felt with the music and its creator. Clarkson shared the stage with Parton herself during the performance, adding another layer of nostalgia and significance.
Clarkson’s tribute concluded with the presentation of the Tex Ritter Film Award to Parton for her role in the 2017 movie, “Dolly Parton’s Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love.
” Clarkson emotionally expressed her gratitude for Parton’s continuous impact on her career and thanked her for being an inspiration to countless artists across various genres.
The audience response was incredibly positive, with many viewers expressing their appreciation for the tribute on social media. Fans and industry professionals alike praised Clarkson’s powerful vocals and heartfelt performance, emphasizing the impact Parton has had on the music world throughout her career.
Overall, Kelly Clarkson’s emotional tribute to Dolly Parton at the ACMs was a touching acknowledgment of the country icon’s contributions to the music industry. Clarkson’s powerful performance, coupled with the medley of Parton’s iconic songs, created a memorable and emotional moment that honored the legend and showcased the influence she has had on generations of musicians.
