Brad Paisley had to hold back tears while honoring his late friend and musical collaborator Dolly Parton.
Back in October 2005, Paisley recorded “When I Get Where I’m Going,”
a timeless ballad that featured the Queen of Country’s shimmering vocals. The record soared atop Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, scoring the crooner a fifth No. 1 song and Parton’s 25th and last chart-topper before her death on Aug. 25 at age 80.So when it came time for Paisley to perform an acoustic version of the song during his Bridgeport, Connecticut, concert on Aug. 27, the 53-year-old musician couldn’t help but cry as he sang it without his duet partner.
What Brad Paisley said about Dolly Parton after emotional performance
“When I recorded that song and sent it to Dolly,
I said, ‘A couple of people in my life I’ve lost, and I didn’t know if this would relate to you,’” Paisley told the crowd in a Facebook video posted by the venue, Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater. “She immediately said, ‘Yes, let me sing on that.’ And [she] did.
“I never thought it would be about her, but it is,” the “I’m Still a Guy” rocker said in disbelief, adding, “It’s everything she believed, and we will always love you.”
How did Dolly Parton die?
As USA TODAY has previously confirmed, Parton died following a brief battle with cancer. The “Jolene” singer – who had been experiencing health issues resulting in canceled shows and appearances before she died – was formally laid to rest Saturday, Aug. 29, in a small, private service surrounded by loved ones.
Brad Paisley remembers Dolly Parton: 'She seemed immortal'
Paisley is among the latest artists to honor the beloved country icon with musical tributes, and artists such as John Mayer and Harry Styles have also shared onstage remembrances.
“I never imagined this day would come. Getting to know Dolly was life changing, but not just for me. For everyone,” the “She’s Everything” singer wrote on Instagram in the wake of Parton’s death.
“She seemed immortal. And in the spirit of what we sang together on this song, I believe she is,” he added. “It won’t be the same down here without you Dolly. But what a legacy of goodness and art you leave for all of us. Goodbye hero. We will always love you.”
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Brad Paisley fights tears singing Dolly Parton duet alone after her death
