John Mayer Honors Dolly Parton With Soulful Rendition of ‘I Will Always Love You’
John Mayer paid tribute to Dolly Parton with a heartfelt performance of one of her most enduring songs during his SiriusXM concert at Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett, New York.
The singer-songwriter and guitarist performed a tender version of Parton’s 1974 classic “I Will Always Love You” as part of the introduction to his 2006 single “Gravity.” After the emotional rendition, Mayer transitioned into the song that served as the night’s closer.
The performance came as musicians across the world continued to honor Parton through her music following her death at age 80 on Aug. 25.
Harry Styles Also Pays Tribute in New York
Mayer was not the only artist in New York to recognize Parton during a concert on Wednesday.
At Madison Square Garden, Harry Styles paused during the opening night of his 30-show run to acknowledge the musicians who had influenced him throughout his career.
“I just wanna give a proper thank you to all the musicians who have inspired me over the years. Dolly, we love you. Thank you so much,” Styles told the sold-out crowd.
He then had Parton’s recording of “I Will Always Love You” played through the arena speakers, with the audience joining in to sing along.
Jack White Revives ‘Jolene’ in London
The tributes extended beyond New York as well. One night earlier, Jack White performed Parton’s “Jolene” during his concert at London’s Eventim Apollo.
According to Setlist.fm, the performance marked the first time White had played “Jolene” live since 2007.
The song was originally released by Parton in 1973 and became one of the defining recordings of her career.
Artists Remember Dolly Parton
As tributes continue to emerge following Parton’s death, fans and fellow musicians have been turning to her songs and memories to celebrate her legacy.
Reba McEntire shared an emotional remembrance, thanking Parton for the impact she had on generations of listeners.
“Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth. Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart,” McEntire wrote.
“There will never ever be another you. We will remember and cherish every memory and every note you ever played and sang.”
From Mayer’s intimate performance in Amagansett to Styles’ tribute before a packed Madison Square Garden and White’s return to “Jolene,” Parton’s music continues to serve as a lasting connection between her and the artists and audiences who admired her.
