Dolly Parton is entering her next era with a little help from some powerhouse women.
On Tuesday, January 13, the country music legend, 79, announced that she’s rereleasing her beloved song “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” — this time with an all-star lineup that includes Miley Cyrus, Reba McEntire, Lainey Wilson and Queen Latifah. As if that wasn’t exciting enough, Dolly also revealed that the new rendition will be accompanied by a music video.
“Coming this Friday 💛 A new rendition of my song ‘Light of a Clear Blue Morning’ featuring @laineywilson, @mileycyrus, @queenlatifah and @reba,” Dolly wrote via Instagram. “Pre-save at the link in bio. Proceeds from this recording and music video will benefit pediatric cancer research at the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville, TN.”
The release arrives just days before a major milestone for the “Jolene” singer, who turns 80 on January 19. The timing also coincides with the Grand Ole Opry’s annual birthday celebration in her honor, “Opry Goes Dolly,” which takes place January 17. Many of the artists featured on the new track are set to attend the celebration — though Dolly herself won’t be there in person.
In a video shared on the Opry’s social media, Dolly addressed fans directly, thanking them for celebrating her big day. “I just wanted to say how much it means to me that you’re all coming together again this year to celebrate my big ol’ birthday,” she said. “I wish I could be there in person, but I’ll be sending you all my love for sure.”
This year’s “Opry Goes Dolly” will honor Parton’s “iconic ’80s era” and feature performances from Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Rhonda Vincent and more. Even without Dolly in attendance, the Opry promises a festive experience, complete with a Dolly impersonator, Dolly-themed drinks and birthday cupcakes during Opry House tours.
Dolly’s absence comes amid ongoing health concerns that surfaced last year. In September, she postponed her Las Vegas residency, telling fans she had been “dealing with some health challenges” and needed to undergo “a few procedures.” Later, in an October 8 Instagram video, Dolly reassured fans that she was doing “OK,” adding with her signature humor, “I ain’t dead yet!”
The singer has also been candid about how the past year has taken a toll on her personally. After the death of her husband earlier this year, Dolly admitted she “didn’t take care of” herself and “let a lot of things go that I should have been taking care of.”
Despite scaling back appearances, Dolly continues to be honored for her legendary career. In November, she was inducted into the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions’ Hall of Fame, though she was unable to attend due to health issues. “I sure wish I could be with you in person today,” she said in a video message. “I’m truly sorry I can’t be there, but I sure wanted to take the chance to say thank you for this incredible honor.”
