Zac Brown Fights Back Tears During Emotional Dolly Parton Tribute
Zac Brown struggled to hold back his emotions as he and the Zac Brown Band paid tribute to Dolly Parton during a recent New York concert.
The emotional moment took place at Forest Hills in New York on August 27 and 28. The concerts came only days after the country music legend died at age 80.
Zac Brown Dedicates “Butterfly” To Dolly Parton
Before performing “Butterfly,” Zac Brown took a moment to honor Dolly.
The song was especially meaningful because Brown and Parton recorded it together. It appeared on the Zac Brown Band’s album Love & Fear.
Brown told the crowd that there would never be another Dolly Parton. He also spoke about the opportunity to know her, make music with her, and learn from the example she set.
For Brown, the song was more than a performance. It became a personal farewell to a friend and musical icon.
Dolly’s Voice Filled The Venue
The Zac Brown Band then performed “Butterfly” live.
Dolly’s recorded vocals were played during the performance. Hearing her voice in the venue added another emotional layer to the tribute.
Fans in the crowd were visibly moved. Many sang along and remembered the country legend through her music.
Brown also appeared to become emotional during the performance.
The moment showed just how personal Dolly’s loss was for the country music community.
Zac Brown Called Dolly One Of A Kind
Brown had spoken warmly about Dolly before her death.
After working with her on “Butterfly,” he described the experience as a dream. He also praised her talent, songwriting, kindness, and the example she set for others.
He later shared that he was heartbroken by her passing. At the same time, he said he felt blessed to have known her.
Dolly’s influence continues to reach artists across generations. For Zac Brown, their final musical collaboration became an especially meaningful part of her legacy.
As “Butterfly” played at Forest Hills, the crowd was reminded of something simple but powerful: Dolly’s voice may be gone, but her music will continue to bring people together.
