Morgan Myles Leaves the Grand Ole Opry Speechless With Emotional Dolly Parton Tribute
By Website Content Manager
“I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to perform this song tonight, and I just hope I can make it all the way through.”
Following the heartbreaking news of Dolly Parton’s passing, country music fans around the world were left mourning the loss of one of the genre’s most cherished figures. The Grand Ole Opry proceeded with its Tuesday night show, but the evening was dedicated in large part to remembering Parton and celebrating the legacy she left behind. As a longtime Opry member for more than five decades, Parton had a special connection to the historic stage, making it a fitting setting for an emotional tribute.
The night began with Opry member Rhonda Vincent honoring Parton with a heartfelt performance. Before singing, Vincent simply told the audience, “This is for Dolly,” and then performed Parton’s iconic song “Coat of Many Colors.”
Vincent later returned to perform a medley of Parton’s best-known hits, including “9 to 5” and “Jolene.” Between performances, she shared personal memories of Parton and spoke about the lasting influence the country superstar had on her own journey as an artist.
However, the most poignant moment of the evening arrived when Morgan Myles stepped onto the Opry stage. Known for her appearance on the 22nd season of NBC’s The Voice, Myles performed an emotional version of Parton’s 1973 classic “I Will Always Love You.”
Before beginning the song, Myles spoke candidly about her admiration for Parton and explained that she had not initially been scheduled to perform at the Opry that evening. After learning of Parton’s death, she contacted the Opry and asked if she could change her planned performance.
Myles explained that she had been emotional throughout the day, describing Parton as a guiding light for women in country music. She said she had originally been preparing to sing a different song, but after hearing the news around 2 p.m., she felt compelled to perform “I Will Always Love You.” Although she worried she might not do the song justice, she felt there was no better way to honor Parton.
She also praised Parton’s authenticity, kindness and remarkable heart, emphasizing how much the world could benefit from having more people with those qualities.
Myles then reflected on how unexpectedly she ended up at the Opry that week. She explained that she had only recently agreed to fill in for another performer, despite not originally planning to be there. To her, the timing felt almost like a sign that she was meant to take the stage that night.
Acknowledging the audience’s love for Parton, Myles encouraged everyone to join her however they felt comfortable—whether by singing along or simply taking a moment to pray and remember the legendary artist.
“I feel very honored tonight to sing this song. So I hope I get through it,” Myles said before beginning the performance.
Her heartfelt delivery transformed the Opry into an intimate moment of remembrance, allowing both Myles and the audience to honor Parton through one of her most enduring songs.