Reba McEntire paid a heartfelt tribute to her longtime friend Dolly Parton during an emotional musical celebration in Nashville, delivering a gospel performance that reflected the faith and friendship they shared for decades.

McEntire took the stage on Wednesday, October 21, at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts to perform “He’s Alive” as part of CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton. The two-hour television special brought together country music stars to honor Parton’s life, music and enduring influence following her death on August 25, 2026, at age 80, after a brief battle with cancer.

The event featured musical performances, archival footage and personal memories celebrating the late singer’s extraordinary career. It also marked the first full-length public memorial dedicated to Parton.

Reba McEntire Selects a Gospel Song With Deep Meaning

McEntire’s choice of “He’s Alive” brought a spiritual dimension to the tribute. Written by Don Francisco, the gospel song recounts the resurrection of Jesus Christ through the perspective of the apostle Peter, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, faith and forgiveness.

The performance was particularly meaningful given the two singers’ shared Christian faith and the profound influence Parton had on McEntire throughout her career.

This was not McEntire’s first public tribute to her friend since Parton’s passing. In September, she honored the country legend at the 78th Emmy Awards with a performance of Parton’s 1983 song “Appalachian Memories.”

For the CMA special, however, the gospel selection offered a different way to celebrate Parton’s spiritual beliefs alongside her musical legacy.

How Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton First Met

The friendship between McEntire and Parton began in 1977 at the Grand Ole Opry, where McEntire was preparing to make her debut on the legendary country music stage.

McEntire had originally been scheduled to perform two songs. However, when Parton arrived, Opry management reassigned one of those performance slots to the established star, leaving McEntire with just one song.

Rather than being disappointed, McEntire was thrilled by the unexpected opportunity to meet someone she admired.

She later recalled asking whether she could meet Parton, explaining that she simply wanted the chance to see her idol in person.

When Parton walked into the room, McEntire was immediately struck by her appearance. Parton wore a black chiffon pantsuit decorated with rhinestone butterflies, paired with her signature glamorous hairstyle.

Recalling that first encounter, McEntire said Parton looked so beautiful that she thought she resembled an angel.

That memorable introduction became the beginning of a friendship that lasted nearly five decades, continuing until Parton’s death in August 2026.

The Story Behind “He’s Alive”

“He’s Alive” has a long history in gospel music. Written by Don Francisco, the song earned Song of the Year honors at the 1980 Dove Awards, establishing itself as a notable recording in the genre.

Parton later recorded her own version for her 1989 album White Limozeen. She also performed the song at the 1990 GMA Dove Awards, bringing her interpretation of its biblical narrative to a wider audience.

The song follows Peter’s emotional journey after denying Jesus three times, moving from guilt and despair toward the revelation of Christ’s resurrection. Its closing moments emphasize the possibility of forgiveness and the enduring power of faith.

For McEntire, performing the song at the CMA tribute connected the music to the spiritual beliefs she and Parton shared. It also offered a way to honor the role faith played in Parton’s life and artistic legacy.

Dolly Parton’s Legacy Continues Through Tributes

Since Parton’s death, artists and entertainment organizations have continued to celebrate her influence on music and popular culture.

The Television Academy honored her during the Emmy Awards, while the Gospel Music Association recognized her at the GMA Dove Awards. Fellow musicians have also shared personal memories and performed her songs in remembrance.

The CMA special brought those elements together through live performances, archival material and stories from people whose lives were touched by Parton.

McEntire’s rendition of “He’s Alive” added a deeply personal chapter to those tributes. Rooted in gospel music and shaped by a friendship that began nearly 50 years ago, the performance celebrated not only Parton’s extraordinary career but also the lasting bond between two country music icons.

Source: Compiled from various sources