Hannah Harper Honors Dolly Parton With Special ‘9 to 5’ Performance at Dollywood

American Idol winner Hannah Harper is paying tribute to one of country music’s most influential stars with a special live rendition of Dolly Parton’s classic hit “9 to 5,” recorded at the Tennessee theme park that Parton helped bring to life.

The live cover is now officially available for fans to enjoy, giving listeners a chance to hear Harper put her own spin on one of Parton’s most recognizable songs. For the rising country artist, performing the track at Dollywood made the experience particularly meaningful.

Harper recently visited the beloved theme park, which Parton opened in 1986. While there, she took the opportunity to perform a selection of songs by the country music legend, including “9 to 5,” the chart-topping hit that remains one of Parton’s signature recordings.

Hannah Harper Calls the Performance a Full-Circle Moment

Following the release of the live recording, Harper shared how much the opportunity meant to her, describing it as a moment that brought her admiration for Parton full circle.

“Getting to sing this iconic song, at Dollywood of all places, was such a full-circle moment! Dolly has inspired so many of us girls with big dreams, and it means the world to me to put my own little spin on one of her classics,” Harper said.

For Harper, the performance represented more than a chance to cover a beloved country hit. It was an opportunity to celebrate an artist whose music, career and determination have inspired generations of women pursuing their own dreams in country music.

Standing on the stage at Dollywood also gave Harper the chance to recognize Parton’s lasting influence on the genre and the many artists who have followed in her footsteps.

Reflecting on the experience, Harper previously expressed her gratitude for being able to honor the singer-songwriter at a place so closely connected to her legacy.

“What an honor it was to stand on a stage at Dollywood and pay tribute to a woman who has paved the way for so many of us in country music. Dolly is was proof that you can hold tight to your roots and still dream bigger than the mountains you came from.”

Fans Praise Harper’s Dolly Parton Tribute

Harper’s rendition of “9 to 5” has already attracted enthusiastic responses from fans, many of whom have praised both the performance and the heartfelt tribute to Parton.

One fan shared their confidence that the country legend would appreciate the gesture, writing, “I’m sure Dolly is really proud of the way you celebrated her music.”

Another listener was equally enthusiastic about the release, commenting, “Runnin’ to download! From the dress to the song Dolly would be so proud!”

The response reflects the affection fans continue to have for Parton’s music and their appreciation for Harper’s decision to celebrate the singer through a performance at Dollywood.

A Dress Inspired by Dolly Parton’s ‘Coat of Many Colors’

The tribute extended beyond the music. In a live video documenting the performance, Harper appeared in a colorful, one-of-a-kind dress inspired by Parton’s beloved song “Coat of Many Colors.”

The gown was designed by Tish Yates of Stitch by Tish and marked the second creation Yates had made for Harper. Its distinctive design incorporated a vintage afghan sourced from Keen Eye Antiques in Ozark, Missouri.

According to Yates, the team had been waiting for the right occasion for Harper to wear the unique piece. Her performance of “9 to 5” at Dollywood ultimately proved to be the perfect setting for the dress.

With the live cover now available, Harper’s performance brings together several elements of Parton’s enduring legacy: her celebrated music, her influence on aspiring female artists and the colorful personal style that has become part of her public image.

For Harper, the opportunity to perform “9 to 5” at Dollywood offered a meaningful way to honor an artist who has helped shape country music while inspiring a new generation to pursue its own ambitions.