WATCH: Kelly Clarkson Honors Dolly Parton With Powerful ‘I Will Always Love You’ Performance

Kelly Clarkson gave a powerful nod to Dolly Parton during a recent private event for The Coca-Cola Company in Atlanta, Georgia, where she delivered an emotional rendition of the country music icon’s beloved classic, “I Will Always Love You.”

Taking the stage on September 11, Clarkson was backed by gentle instrumentation as she slowly began singing the tender ballad, giving the audience a chance to take in every word of the timeless song.

The singer appeared to be fully immersed in the performance as she closed her eyes and poured genuine emotion into the lyrics. Her powerhouse vocals handled the song’s difficult range with ease, showcasing the control and depth that she is known for.

Clarkson continued, gradually building the intensity before powerfully belting out the closing lyrics. Her impressive vocals were met with a roar of cheers from the crowd.

“And I will always love you/ I will always love you/ I will always love you/ I will always love you/ I will always love you/ I will always love you,” she sang.

According to videos shared by an employee present for the private concert experience, Clarkson’s set also included a slew of timeless hits from her early catalog, such as “Miss Independent,” “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You),” “Since U Been Gone,” “Because Of You” and “Breakaway.”

@iamjustme830 Kelly Clarkson performed at a private event for Coca-Cola Company in Atlanta GA 9/11/26 #kellyclarkson #cocacolawoodruffcup ♬ original sound – iamjustme830

Clarkson’s performance of the Dolly Parton classic served as yet another tribute to the icon, following her passing on August 25. Like many other singer/songwriters, the Texas native took to social media after learning the tragic news to reflect on the impact Parton had on the world.

She wrote, “Dolly Parton had a way of making everyone feel special, and seen, and welcomed, and as if you were old friends. I will miss her heart and her voice as I am sure millions will. What an incredible gift and talent she was and still is with an amazing catalogue of art she has left behind for all of us.”

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This wasn’t the first time Clarkson had sang “I Will Always Love You.” She has also previously covered it on her own show, The Kelly Clarkson Show,” which she officially said goodbye to on Monday, August 31.

After seven years on the air and more than 1,200 episodes, Clarkson announced she would be stepping away from the show to spend more time at home with her kids.

“It is a bittersweet day for all of us,” Clarkson said at the top of the show before later adding, “My kiddos have always come first, they’re a big reason I did this show… they’re also a big reason it’s time to say goodbye…I’m such a proud mama. They’re the greatest kiddos in the world.”

While Kelly Clarkson doesn’t have an official tour on the books, today it was announced that she will officially be returning to Stagecoach to perform on the Mane Stage in 2027.