(AP Photo/John Locher)
Kelly Clarkson honored country music legend Dolly Parton with her rendition of “I Will Always Love You” at the 2022 ACM Awards.
The star opted for a long-sleeved, sleek black gown with cutouts for the occasion. She styled her outfit with silver earrings and a glamorous makeup look. The star started the epic performance with soft notes before building up to a dramatic chorus.
Clarkson received a standing ovation after finishing her performance and was greeted onstage by Parton. “Give it up for Dolly Parton,” Clarkson said to the crowd as she exited the stage.
“I know that Whitney is smiling down on us tonight, so thank you very much — she would be proud of that,” Parton said of the late Whitney Houston. “I was backstage trying not to cry my false eyelashes off — slinging snot in every direction and tears,” continued Parton. “But anyway, that was an amazing job!”
Clarkson first shared that she was paying tribute to Parton during an episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show last month. She also shared the exciting news on Instagram, writing, “One word: DOLLY,” she wrote. “That’s right, y’all! I’m so excited to announce that during this year’s @ACMawards, I’ll be performing a tribute to the show’s host @DollyParton! Don’t miss the #ACMawards LIVE Monday, March 7, only on @PrimeVideo.”
Parton responded to Clarkson and commented on the post with a red heart emoji.
Check out a clip of Clarkson’s emotional performance below: