Nashville, Tennessee – Even after her death, Dolly Parton continues to touch countless hearts. Now, the iconic singer has been posthumously honored with the Americana Lifetime Achievement Award.
The audience at the 2026 Americana Honors & Awards was caught by surprise this week when a video message featuring Dolly Parton herself was displayed on screen.
As People reports, the clip was filmed before her death last month.
This was the first time the video was shown publicly, and the crowd couldn't hide their emotional reactions to seeing Dolly again.
In the clip, the country star thanked the organizers for the honor and reflected on her deep connection to music. The songs of her childhood, spent in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, had a lasting impact on her career.
"It’s a great honor truly, and just know that I will always love you," Parton said at the end of her recording.
The tribute was delivered by Parton's longtime friend and musical collaborator Emmylou Harris. She recalled how, early in her career, Parton insisted on forging her own path.
"There was nothing Dolly couldn't do, and so she did it," Harris said.
Parton died on August 25 at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer.
Harris also praised Parton's commitment beyond music. Projects such as Dollywood and the Imagination Library, as well as her support for social and medical initiatives, are part of a legacy that extends beyond her musical achievements.
To conclude the tribute, Brandi Carlile performed Parton's 1971 song Coat of Many Colors.