Reba McEntire experienced an unthinkable tragedy when eight members of her band lost their lives in a plane crash on March 16, 1991.
The group had just wrapped up an event in Southern California to promote Reba’s album Rumor Has It. As their twin-engine Hawker Siddeley jet departed San Diego, the wing clipped an outcropping of rock on the side of Otay Mountain, causing it to crash into the terrain and explode on impact.
Reba reportedly stayed behind by the recommendation of her then-husband Narvel Blackstock, who encouraged her to rest as she was recovering from bronchitis. She had planned to meet her band in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the following day. Narvel would later have the grueling task of calling the family members of the deceased to tell them the news.
Fiddler Chris Austin, band leader Kirk Cappello, keyboardist Joey Cigainero, backup singer Paula Kaye Evans, bassist Terry Jackson, drummer Anthony Saputo, guitarist Michael Thomas, tour manager Jim Hammon, and the two pilots operating the plane were all lost in the crash.
Days after the incident, Reba told People Magazine:
“By far this is my darkest hour, the most awful thing that ever happened in my life. When you have eight people that you absolutely love and their lives are just wiped out – it’s devastating.”
Newspaper article from 1991 following the plane crash that claimed the lives of Reba McEntire’s bandmates (via newspapers.com)
Reba Pays Tribute To Her Late Band Members
Not a year goes by when the “Fancy” singer does not honor the memory of her friends and bandmates. Six months after the tragedy, she released an album titled For My Broken Heart, dedicated to her lost comrades. The album was one of the most successful of her career – selling four million copies.
Album cover for “For My Broken Heart” by Reba McEntire (via Discogs)
In 2015, Reba visited the site of the crash and reflected:
This year, on the 34th anniversary of the crash, she shared a simple and heartfelt message on her social media pages. It read:
“Always in our minds, thoughts, and prayers no matter how many years have passed. Love and miss you all.”
Watch the video for Reba McEntire’s emotional song “For My Broken Heart” below.
For an entire week in September 2017, Miley Cyrus appeared on every episode of The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon to promote her brand new album, Younger Now.
She participated in games, musical performances, and interviews in each episode. On the Wednesday, October 4th episode, Cyrus and Fallon sang a duet that will have you doing a double take.
Paying tribute to Cyrus’ godmother, Dolly Parton, and her frequent duet partner Kenny Rogers, the duo sang “Islands in the Stream” dressed like the country legends.
Fallon first walked out on stage in a tuxedo, gray wig, and fake gray beard, looking eerily similar to The Gambler himself. Not long after Fallon’s entrance, Cyrus walked out, looking bustier than usual, wearing a gorgeous black dress with a sky-high blonde wig.
Not only did Cyrus and Fallon fit the part musically and with their outfits, but the set was also quite similar to one that Parton and Rogers performed back in the 1970s
Dolly and Kenny released “Islands In The Stream” in 1983. It was written by the Bee Gees—Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb—and produced by Barry Gibb. The song was originally intended as an R&B song for Marvin Gaye, but it transformed into a country-pop masterpiece under the vocals of Kenny and Dolly. The track became a monumental hit, topping both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Country charts, and solidified the pair’s legendary status in the music world.
Rogers saw their performance, and absolutely approved of it, saying, “Jimmy Fallon and Miley Cyrus make a great duet…perhaps we’ll let them go on the road in place of us! I thoroughly enjoyed it.”
Did you enjoy their duet as much as we did? Let us know in the comments. Watch it below.
Country singer Dolly Parton is speaking out about how she’s doing following her husband’s death.
Country sweetheart Dolly Parton, 79, has been dealing with the sad passing of her husband, Carl Dean, who died on Monday, March 3. He was 82 years old.
Now, Parton has made her first public appearance since Dean’s death.
According to news station WSPA, Parton was at a preview for Dollywood season passholders on Friday, March 14, before the opening for the park’s 40th season in Tennessee. She started the event by giving fans her heartfelt thanks for their cards, flowers and well-wishes while she’s been getting since the loss of Dean.
“Of course I will always love him, and I’ll miss him, but I wanted you to know that I will always love you,” she said to the crowd, as a reference to her hit song, “I Will Always Love You.”
Parton also talked business and updated attendees about the updates and changes that have been made to the theme park. Dollywood dates back to the early 1960s.
Parton announced the death of her husband on Monday, March 3, on Instagram.
“Carl Dean, husband of Dolly Parton, passed away March 3rd in Nashville at the age of 82. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with immediate family attending. He is survived by his siblings Sandra and Donnie,” the post stated.
“Carl and I spent many wonderful years together,” the statement continued. “Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy. The family asks for privacy during this difficult time.”
Parton and Dean were married for nearly 60 years. The two met in Nashville in 1964 and wed two years later.
IT looks like The Voice star Sir Tom Jones might need some extra factor as he lounges in the sunshine.
The singing legend, 78, showed off his bronzed body after taking off his shirt for a quick tanning session at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in the South of France.
Tanning Voice star Tom Jones might need some extra factor if he spends too long in the French sunCredit: BackGrid
But he swapped basking in the sunlight for limelight last night as he performed at an Aids research charity gala in Cannes.
Mariah Carey, 49, and Dua Lipa, 23, were also due on stage at the star-studded bash — but Sir Tom didn’t pale in comparison.
Sir Tom out in sun ahead of charity concertCredit: BackGrid
Sir Tom catching a few rays ahead of his appearance on stage at the Aids research charity gala in CannesCredit: Splash News
Dolly Parton’s rendition of “But You Know I Love You” showcases her incredible talent for interpreting songs with emotional depth and sincerity. Released as a part of her 1980 album “9 to 5 and Odd Jobs,” the song highlights Parton’s ability to blend country elements with pop sensibilities, reaching a wide audience and affirming her status as a versatile artist.
Originally written by Mike Settle, “But You Know I Love You” had been a hit for several artists before Parto made it her own. Her version of the song became particularly popular, demonstrating her skill in making a well-known track resonate with new meaning and emotion.
About The Composition
Title: But You Know I Love You
Composer: Mike Settle
Premiere Date: 1980 (Dolly Parton’s version)
Album/Opus/Collection: 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs
Genre: Country, Pop
Background
“But You Know I Love You” was first recorded by the First Edition in 1968, a group that included composer Mike Settle. The song quickly gained popularity, reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. Over the years, it was covered by various artists, each bringing their unique interpretation to the track. Dolly Parton’s version, released in 1980, further elevated the song’s status, making it a staple in her discography. Her rendition reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, a testament to her ability to connect with listeners through her heartfelt delivery.
Musical Style
Dolly Parton’s version of “But You Know I Love You” incorporates a blend of country and pop elements, characterized by her distinctive vocal style. The arrangement features a smooth melody with rich instrumentation, including guitar and strings, which complements the emotive lyrics. Parton’s interpretation adds a layer of warmth and sincerity, enhancing the song’s appeal.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “But You Know I Love You” explore themes of love and longing, detailing the complexities of relationships and the emotional challenges faced when separated from a loved one. The song’s narrative conveys a heartfelt message of reassurance and devotion, resonating with anyone who has experienced the pain of distance.
Performance History
Dolly Parton’s version of “But You Know I Love You” has been performed on various platforms, including television appearances and concerts. Her live performances often emphasize the emotional depth of the song, allowing audiences to connect with its poignant message. Notably, her rendition became a highlight during her tours in the 1980s, further solidifying its place in her repertoire.
Cultural Impact
The song’s enduring popularity is reflected in its continued presence in media and cover versions by other artists. Dolly Parton’s interpretation has influenced subsequent musicians, contributing to the song’s legacy as a classic. Its themes of love and longing have made it a favorite in both country and pop music circles, showcasing Parton’s impact on the genre.
Legacy
Today, “But You Know I Love You” remains an important part of Dolly Parton’s musical legacy. Its timeles appeal and emotional resonance continue to captivate listeners, ensuring its place in the annals of country music history. Parton’s ability to transform and elevate the song speaks to her enduring influence as a performer and artist.
Conclusion
Dolly Parton’s rendition of “But You Know I Love You” is a testament to her talent as both a singer and interpreter of songs. Her unique ability to convey emotion and connect with audiences has left a lasting impact, making the song a beloved classic. I encourage you to explore this track and discover the depth of feeling that Parton brings to her music.
Video
Lyrics
(Mike Settle – Pierre Delanoe)
When the mornin’ sun streaks across my room
And I’m wakened up from another dream of you
Yes, you know I’m on the road once again it seems
All that’s left behind is a chain of broken dreams.
But you know that I love you
You know that I love you
Oh, I love you.
And how I wish that love was all we’d need to live
What a life we’d have ’cause I’ve got so much to give
But ya’ know I feel so sad down inside my heart
That the dollar sign should be keepin’ us apart.
But you know that I love you
You know that I love you
Oh, how I love you,
And if only I could find my way back to the time
When the problems of this life had not yet crossed my mind
And the answers could be found in children’s nursery rhymes
I’d come runnin’ back to you.
But you know we can’t live on dreams alone
Got to pay the rent so I must leave you all alone
But you know I made my choice many years ago
And now this travelin’ life, well, it’s the only life I know.
It might come as a surprise, but the two country music queens had never collaborated on a song together. In 2021, the legends joined forces to cover “Does He Love You” the classic duet originally sung by McEntire and Linda Davis, released in 1993.
The track, written by Sandy Knox and Billy Stritch, is about the wife and mistress of a man, singing to each other, asking: “Does he love you, like he loves me?” McEntire and Parton’s version was a single off of The Voice Coach’s 2021 three-disc compilation release, Revived Remixed Revisited. The song was a hit with fans and debuted in the Top 50 of Billboard‘s Country Airplay Chart.
“It turned out really good,” Parton told Andy Cohen on Watch What Happens Live back in July 2021. “I have always wanted to sing with her and I don’t know why we never did it until now. But we really sounded good together and I think the fans are going to like it.”
About their duet, McEntire said, “It’s amazing that we’ve never done a duet. We’ve never [sung] together. I’ve gone on programs to sing for her, and she’s done that for me. But to never sing a song together is kinda weird.”
Not only did McEntire and Parton collaborate on the song together, they also filmed a music video for it. In the clip, the two of them meet up in a club together, sitting at a table, each with a drink in their hand as they sing to one another, before eventually taking to the club’s stage for the song’s emotional ending.
“My favorite part of shooting the video with Dolly was getting to visit with her in between shots,” The Voice Coach continued. “Second was singing with her. But to get to hang out and just visit like girlfriends was so much fun… I loved the play acting we got to do. [At first] we were women at odds, and not liking each other. But by the end we were like ‘Ah you can have him, I don’t want him.’ It was a lot of fun.”
Will the two legends reunite for another project in the near future?
“We did talk about doing more stuff together, and I hope that happens, because I loved working with her,” McEntire added. “She’s a professional, she’s fun, funny, witty. I could sit and listen to her talk all day long.”
There’s something magical about a Dolly Parton song, isn’t there? Her music has this way of wrapping around your heart, like a warm hug on a cold day. Forever Love is no exception—it’s a tender, heartfelt ballad that feels like a love letter to the kind of connection that stands the test of time. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Dolly or just discovering her music, this song has a way of speaking directly to your soul.
At its core, Forever Love is about enduring love—the kind that weathers every storm, grows stronger with each passing year, and remains unshaken by life’s ups and downs. Dolly’s voice, as always, is rich with emotion, carrying the weight of every word she sings. You can feel the sincerity in her delivery, as if she’s lived every lyric herself. It’s not just a song; it’s a story, a promise, and a reminder of the beauty of commitment.
What makes Forever Love so special is its simplicity. The melody is gentle and timeless, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to slow down, close your eyes, and think about the people in your life who mean the most to you. It’s perfect for weddings, anniversaries, or even quiet moments of reflection when you’re feeling sentimental.
Dolly has always had a gift for writing songs that feel deeply personal yet universally relatable, and Forever Love is no different. It’s a testament to her ability to capture the essence of human emotion in just a few verses. The song reminds us that love isn’t just about the grand gestures—it’s about the little moments, the quiet assurances, and the unspoken understanding that binds two people together.
If you’re a fan of Dolly’s classic hits like I Will Always Love You or Jolene, you’ll find that Forever Love carries that same emotional depth, but with a softer, more intimate touch. It’s a song that feels like it was written just for you, and that’s the magic of Dolly Parton—she makes every listener feel seen, heard, and loved.
In December 2022, Adam Lambert and John Legend delivered a captivating rendition of Culture Club’s classic hit, “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me,” during an Instagram Live session. This performance was part of John’s “Trailer Talk” series, where the two acclaimed artists engaged in a heartfelt conversation before seamlessly transitioning into the duet.
Their collaboration was met with widespread acclaim, with fans praising the seamless blend of Lambert’s dynamic vocal range and Legend’s soulful depth. The performance was shared across various platforms, including TikTok, where Lambert posted a clip highlighting their harmonious rendition.
This duet not only showcased their individual talents but also highlighted their ability to reinterpret and breathe new life into a beloved classic. The chemistry between Lambert and Legend was evident, making the performance a memorable moment for fans of both artists.
For those interested in experiencing this unique collaboration, the performance is available to watch on YouTube.
Additionally, Adam Lambert included a live rendition of “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” in his album “High Drama,” released in February 2023.
This collaboration between Lambert and Legend stands as a testament to their versatility and mutual respect as artists, offering a fresh take on a timeless song.
Carl Dean’s passing at 82 marked the end of a nearly six-decade marriage to Dolly Parton — one that fascinated fans due to his near-total absence from the public eye. For decades, Dean deliberately stayed out of the spotlight, making public sightings of him a rare event.
A man thought to be Dolly Parton’s husband, Carl Dean, is pictured walking his dog on February 15, 1996 | Source: Getty Images
His reclusive nature only fueled curiosity as years passed without a single new image of him appearing. That changed when a photograph of Dean emerged of what would become his final public sighting. The picture offers a rare glimpse of the man who remained a mystery to the world but a devoted partner to Parton.
A Marriage That Defied Hollywood Norms
Dean and Parton first met on a seemingly ordinary day in 1964 at the Wishy Washy Laundromat in Nashville. Parton had just moved to the city to pursue her music career, and Dean, then 21, happened to see the 18-year-old outside.
“My first thought was, ‘I’m gonna marry that girl,'” he recalled. “My second thought was, ‘Lord, she’s good lookin’.'” Parton, known for her warm and outgoing nature, struck up a conversation with him, not realizing that their chance encounter would lead to a lifetime together.
Their relationship moved quickly, and within two years, they were ready to marry. On May 30, 1966, the couple traveled to Ringgold, Georgia, for an intimate wedding. The ceremony was so private that only Parton’s mother, the preacher, and his wife attended.
At the time, Parton’s record label advised against the marriage, believing it could hinder her budding career. Still, the couple went through with it, keeping the event quiet to avoid interference. Soon after their wedding, Parton’s fame skyrocketed, but Dean remained outside the spotlight.
A Life Lived in Privacy
While Parton’s career put her in front of millions, her husband stayed in the background, carefully guarding his privacy for decades. He had no interest in attending public events with his wife. Instead, he focused on his own work, running an asphalt-laying business in Nashville.
Parton frequently acknowledged her husband’s preference for privacy. “My husband is a loner,” she explained. “He doesn’t particularly care about being around anybody but me. He’s just always asked me to leave him out of all this. He does not like all the hullabaloo.”
Dolly Parton poses for a portrait, circa 1970 | Source: Getty Images
Despite his absence from the public eye, Dean fully supported Parton’s career, often watching her performances from home. Their separate lives worked because of mutual understanding. Parton once shared that Dean was “very secure within himself” and had no concerns about the attention she received.
He understood the demands of her career but preferred to stay behind the scenes. “He said, ‘I didn’t choose this world, I chose you, and you chose that world. But we can keep our lives separate and together.’ And we do and we have,” Parton shared. Over the years, Dean’s privacy became almost legendary
Dolly Parton in London, California in 1977 | Source: Getty Images
He was so elusive that many fans speculated whether he even existed. Even as Parton shared personal moments from their life together, Dean remained largely unseen.
Dolly Parton poses for a portrait session dressed as a playboy bunny in Los Angeles, California in 1978 | Source: Getty Images
Rare Glimpses Over the Years
For decades, Dean’s absence from the public eye fueled curiosity. Unlike most celebrity spouses, he never walked a red carpet, attended award shows, or gave interviews about his marriage to Parton. The only glimpses of him came from private photos Parton occasionally shared, offering rare peeks into their life together.
His avoidance of publicity was so complete that, for over four decades, no known public photographs of him existed. Despite his reclusive nature, Dean and Parton lived a full life together, often taking road trips in their RV or spending quiet time at home.
Their ability to maintain that balance was a key to their nearly 60-year marriage. Then, after decades of complete privacy, Dean was unexpectedly seen in public. The sighting was brief, but it quickly became significant as it provided a rare look at the man who had spent a lifetime avoiding cameras.
Dolly Parton on “Dolly” in 1987 | Source: Getty Images
The Last Photo: A Rare Look at Carl Dean in His Later Years
Dean was photographed in public in 2019 for the first time in over 40 years. The sighting took place in Brentwood, Tennessee, where he was seen visiting a post office.
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At 77, Dean’s appearance had changed significantly from the few earlier photos of him. He was dressed casually in a black-and-white gingham button-up shirt, dark jeans, and a tan hunting jacket with a plaid lining. His once-dark hair was now shaggy and gray, though his facial features remained recognizable.
An assistant accompanied him, driving him to the post office before they left together. The image quickly became notable due to the sheer rarity of seeing him in public.
Dean’s Influence on Parton’s Music
Though Dean stayed out of the spotlight, his presence was deeply felt in Parton’s life and career. Over the years, he became the inspiration behind some of her most well-known songs. One of the most famous examples is “Jolene,” a song that became a country music classic.
Dolly Parton performs during a concert on December 6, 2016 | Source: Getty Images
Parton once revealed that the song was based on a real-life incident involving a flirtatious bank teller who took an interest in Dean. “She got this terrible crush on my husband,” Parton shared. “And he just loved going to the bank because she paid him so much attention.”
Though the song tells the story of a woman pleading for her lover’s loyalty, Parton always maintained that Dean was devoted to her. She said the song was simply inspired by an amusing moment in their marriage.
Dean was also the subject of one of Parton’s most heartfelt ballads, “From Here to the Moon and Back,” a song about deep and lasting love. Through her lyrics, Parton expressed the devotion they shared, despite his aversion to fame.
Even though Dean did not publicly engage with Parton’s career, she often spoke about how proud he was of her success and supported her from behind the scenes. While Parton entertained millions worldwide, Dean remained her anchor until his passing.
Parton’s Tribute and Public Reaction
On March 3, 2025, Parton confirmed the passing of her husband in a heartfelt statement. She expressed gratitude for the time they shared and acknowledged the deep love that defined their nearly six-decade marriage.
“Carl and I spent many wonderful years together,” she wrote. “Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.” She also requested privacy as she mourned him.
Dolly Parton attends the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards on May 11, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Fans quickly flooded social media with messages of support, offering condolences to the country music legend. Comments such as “So sorry for Dolly’s loss,” “Prayers for all. Rest in peace, Carl Dean [sic],” and “Condolences” poured in.
Dean’s passing resonated with many, as he had become an important figure in Parton’s story. Even in death, Dean remained as private as he had been in life. His funeral arrangements were kept intimate, with only immediate family in attendance.
Parton, who has always respected her husband’s wishes for privacy, honored him in the same way he had lived — away from the cameras, surrounded by those who knew him best.
In a heartwarming and unexpected moment, Kelly Clarkson honored country legend Dolly Parton in the most personal way possible—by changing the lyrics to her emotional ballad Piece by Piece to lift Dolly’s spirits just days after the passing of her beloved husband, Carl Dean.
Dolly and Carl shared a love story that lasted over five decades, a rarity in the entertainment world. Though Carl kept a famously low profile, Dolly often spoke about their enduring bond, describing him as her greatest love and biggest supporter. His passing left a deep void in her heart, and the world watched as the country icon grieved privately.
Wanting to bring comfort to her longtime idol and friend, Kelly Clarkson took the stage on her talk show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, to perform Piece by Piece—but this wasn’t the version fans were used to. Instead, Clarkson rewrote the lyrics to reflect a story of unwavering love, inspired by Dolly and Carl’s lifelong devotion.
As the music started, Kelly’s voice trembled with emotion, but she pressed on:
“Piece by piece, he built you a life, Never let go, stayed right by your side. Through every storm, through all the years, He held your hand, he dried your tears.”
The audience fell silent, hanging onto every word. Unlike the original version, which told the story of healing from abandonment, this new rendition celebrated a love that never wavered—a tribute to Carl’s steadfast presence in Dolly’s life.
The moment became even more poignant when cameras panned to Dolly, sitting in the front row, tears glistening in her eyes. She placed a hand over her heart, visibly touched by Kelly’s thoughtful gesture.
After the performance, Kelly walked over to embrace Dolly, whispering, “He loved you piece by piece, every single day.”
Dolly, wiping away tears, responded with a smile, “And I’ll keep loving him, every single day.”
The performance quickly went viral, with fans praising Kelly’s compassion and the beautiful way she honored Dolly’s love story. It wasn’t just a song that night—it was a reminder that love, even in loss, remains unbreakable.
