During the 2025 Stagecoach Festival, Carly Pearce delivered an unforgettable moment by performing the iconic hit “Jolene” by Dolly Parton. Known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery, Pearce’s rendition of this classic country song quickly became one of the highlights of the festival.
In an unexpected yet deeply moving tribute, Carly Pearce stood before a massive crowd, her voice resonating through the warm California air as she brought new life to Dolly Parton’s timeless tune. The song, originally written and performed by Parton in 1973, has long been a staple of the country music genre, telling the story of a woman pleading with another to not steal her man. Pearce’s interpretation was nothing short of stellar, capturing the heartbreak and vulnerability of the character in a way that made the song feel fresh while still paying homage to its roots.
While many artists have covered “Jolene,” Pearce’s performance stood out for its raw authenticity. As she sang, you could see her connection to the song—and to Parton herself—shining through. The crowd at Stagecoach could feel the emotion in every note, and many fans on social media have expressed how much they appreciated her tribute to one of the greatest country music legends.
But it wasn’t just the song that made this performance special. The act of honoring Dolly Parton in such a public and heartfelt way spoke volumes about Pearce’s respect for the country music legends who paved the way for artists like herself. “Jolene” is a song that has been covered by countless artists over the years, but Pearce’s rendition was one of the most poignant, capturing the essence of the original while making it her own.
The Legacy of Dolly Parton: A Bridge Between Generations
For those who have followed country music for decades, it’s clear that Dolly Parton’s influence remains as strong as ever. And for a younger artist like Carly Pearce, singing “Jolene” wasn’t just a performance; it was a way to connect with the generations of fans who have loved the song for over 50 years. Pearce’s version was a powerful reminder of how the country music genre continues to evolve, all while staying deeply rooted in the traditions set forth by artists like Parton.
This performance wasn’t just about nostalgia—it was about continuing the legacy of storytelling that defines country music. Pearce, like many of her peers, is building her own career while showing deep reverence for the icons that came before her.
A Moment to Remember
As Carly Pearce took the stage and shared her rendition of “Jolene” with the audience, it was clear that this was more than just a cover—this was a celebration of the song, the artist, and the country music genre. Her ability to take a song that is so deeply tied to Dolly Parton’s iconic status and make it her own was nothing short of remarkable.
This heartfelt performance not only captured the attention of the Stagecoach crowd but has since become a topic of conversation among fans on social media. The powerful tribute to Dolly Parton is a reminder of why country music fans continue to cherish the legacy of these legendary artists and why new artists like Carly Pearce are helping to keep the spirit of classic country music alive.
For those who missed it, here’s a chance to watch Carly Pearce’s stunning performance of “Jolene” at Stagecoach 2025. You won’t want to miss it!
Watch the performance below on TikTok: