WATCH: Little Big Town Delivers Uplifting Rendition of Dolly Parton’s ‘Light of a Clear Blue Morning’

Little Big Town brought their own moment to the stage during “CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton,” with a performance that places a spotlight on a powerful message of hope, freedom, and brighter days ahead.

The award-winning group took on Parton’s 1977 release, “Light of a Clear Blue Morning,” with Karen Fairchild kicking things off by delivering the opening verse with her signature vocals. She was soon joined by her bandmates, whose voices blended beautifully together, bringing the soulful tune to life.

Throughout the remainder of the performance, the group took turns delivering the lyrics, allowing each member to put their own touch on the uplifting message. The audience clapped along as the performance built and the band offered the important reminder that even in life’s darkest moments, better days will always lie ahead.

For the award-winning country group, honoring the “Jolene” singer felt like an opportunity to recognize the lasting mark she has left on country music and her ability to connect people through her authenticity.

Philip Sweet praised Parton’s remarkable longevity in the industry, describing her career as something Little Big Town can only hope to match in their own musical journey together.

“To honor Dolly is incredible. I mean, for us to have the longevity we’ve had, but her longevity, it’s something to aspire to and a career that we only hope we can get close to measuring up to.”

Kimberly Schlapman added that her story, heart and actions will continue to inspire generations to come, saying, “Her career’s going to be like heaven. It’s just going to be infinity forever and ever and ever.”

Meanwhile, Parton’s unique ability to unite people from all walks of life unlike anyone else has done before is something that especially stood out to Karen Fairchild.

“I think it’s because she was so honest, joyful, strong, funny. And she was an original and she never catered to just anybody. She just was Dolly,” she explained.

Last, but not least, Jimi Westbrook reflected on the fact that even weeks after Parton’s passing, it is still something that is hard to process. However, he shared that hearing her songs and witnessing the joy they continue to bring people has offered a sense of comfort in knowing that her spirit is always present.  

“I think kind of connecting into that spirit…is truly a special thing in this world and we definitely need more of that. And we love you, Dolly,” he added.

Little Big Town joins a slew of fellow artists and celebrities who came together in Nashville to celebrate Dolly Parton’s life.  

“CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton”

“CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton” set out to unite artists from multiple generations and genres with a star-powered list of performers. The lineup included a mix of fellow Country Music Hall of Fame members, country music superstars, and celebrated bluegrass acts, Broadway and beyond.

Among those who took the stage were Ashley McBryde, Béla Fleck, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, Carrie Underwood, Darius Rucker, Ella Langley, Kelsea Ballerini, Kristen Bell, Kristin Chenoweth, Lady A, Lainey Wilson, Lukas Nelson, Molly Tuttle, Ricky Skaggs, Sierra Hull, Vince Gill and Zac Brown. Additionally, Amy Grant and Kimberly Williams-Paisley joined as special guests.

Along with the unforgettable performances, the night featured special tributes from some of Dolly’s friends and longtime connections throughout the entertainment industry, like Bono, Carol Burnett, Goldie Hawn, Julia Roberts and Oprah Winfrey.

The two-hour special was broadcast live from Belmont University on ABC and Disney+ in the U.S. and internationally. Filmed before a live audience at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, the special will also be available to stream the next day on Hulu.

The CMA and Belmont University will donate a portion of the proceeds from tonight’s event to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.