Zac Brown paid a heartfelt tribute to Dolly Parton during Wednesday night’s CMA special, bringing the late country legend’s voice back to the stage for an emotional performance of their duet, Butterfly.
The Zac Brown Band frontman performed the song alongside Parton’s original recorded vocals during CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton on October 21. Surrounded by flowers and butterflies, Brown shared one final musical moment with his late friend as the audience watched their voices come together in Nashville.
Released in September 2025 on Zac Brown Band’s album Love & Fear, Butterfly was originally written by Brown for his children. The heartfelt song offers words of encouragement, hope and strength for whatever challenges life may bring. Following Parton’s death on August 25 at age 80, however, the song has taken on an even deeper meaning.
Brown recently shared a touching story about how the collaboration came together during an appearance on The Bobby Bones Show. After he sent the song to Parton, she loved it so much that she immediately left him a voicemail. Brown revealed that he has kept the message ever since.
“We got ourselves a number one song here. You know, don’t give that song to anybody else,” Parton told him in the voicemail.
The memory offered a glimpse into their friendship and Parton’s excitement about the song. Brown also reflected on the woman behind the iconic voice, describing his late friend as “a real life angel.” He remembered her faith, kindness and generosity, as well as her ability to encourage others to love and accept people for who they are.
Wednesday’s performance was not the first time Brown had honored Parton with Butterfly. Just days after her passing, he paid tribute to the country icon during a Zac Brown Band concert at Forest Hills Stadium in New York.
“There will never be another Dolly Parton,” he told the audience.
The CMA special brought together numerous artists to celebrate Parton’s life and musical legacy. Ella Langley, Lainey Wilson, Carrie Underwood and Vince Gill were among the performers who joined the tribute.
There was also a special meaning behind Brown’s choice of song. A track originally written to encourage his own children became a way to honor an artist whose legacy continues to inspire and support young people around the world.
Proceeds from the event will support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the book-gifting program she founded to help children develop a love of reading. Through the program and the music she leaves behind, Parton’s generosity continues to reach new generations.
