Brad Paisley Gets Emotional Performing “When I Get Where I’m Going” After Dolly Parton’s Death
Brad Paisley delivered an emotional tribute to Dolly Parton during his first concert after the country legend’s death.
Just two days after Parton passed away on August 25, Paisley performed their beloved 2005 duet, “When I Get Where I’m Going,” during his concert in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The performance quickly became one of the most emotional moments of the night.
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Brad Paisley Returns To The Stage Without Dolly
Paisley’s tour resumed on August 27 at the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater.
The singer performed around 20 of his biggest songs during the show. But at one point, he stepped away from the regular set and picked up his acoustic guitar.
The crowd initially did not know what song he was about to play.
Then Paisley began playing the familiar opening notes of “When I Get Where I’m Going.”
The reaction from the audience was immediate.
The song, originally recorded with Dolly Parton, suddenly carried a much deeper meaning following her death.
An Emotional Performance
Paisley performed the song by himself, taking on the part that Parton had originally sung.
After the performance, Paisley became visibly emotional as he spoke about the special connection he had with Parton and the song.
He explained that when he originally recorded the song and sent it to Parton, he was unsure whether she would want to be part of it.
Parton immediately agreed to sing on the track.
Years later, Paisley found himself performing the song alone in front of thousands of fans just days after her passing.
He admitted that he never expected the song to become about Dolly herself in such a heartbreaking way.
The Song Has A Special Meaning
“When I Get Where I’m Going” was released in 2005 as a duet between Paisley and Parton.
The song focuses on faith, heaven, loss and the hope of being reunited with loved ones.
It became one of Paisley’s most recognizable songs and reached No. 1 on the country charts. It also earned major recognition for the two artists, including Vocal Event of the Year honors from both the CMA and ACM.
Following Parton’s death, the lyrics took on an even more emotional meaning.
For Paisley and many of the fans watching that night, the song was no longer simply a hit from nearly two decades ago.
It became a farewell to one of country music’s most beloved performers.
A Lasting Tribute To Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton’s influence on country music has been felt across generations, and Paisley’s tribute was another reminder of the special place she held in the genre.
The two artists shared a musical connection that began with “When I Get Where I’m Going” and continued through years of friendship and mutual respect.
Now, every performance of the song carries an added emotional weight.
Paisley’s tribute gave fans a chance to remember Parton through one of the songs that helped define her incredible legacy.
And for a moment, the stage became more than just a concert.
It became a farewell to Dolly.
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