At the 2024 ACM Awards, the stage came alive with one of the most memorable moments of the night, thanks to country music legend Reba McEntire and the famous couple Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton. When Reba enthusiastically introduced the duo, she boldly declared, “They were made for each other!” And what followed was a performance that left the entire audience in awe.

Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton, known for their incredible chemistry both on and off the stage, took their love and musical talent to new heights with their rendition of “Purple Irises.” Blake, with his signature guitar strumming, set the tone for a performance full of passion and emotion. As Gwen’s sweet and powerful vocals filled the room, it was clear this wasn’t just a musical performance, but a heartfelt expression of their deep connection. Their chemistry was undeniable, with every note and glance exchanged radiating warmth and affection.

The audience at the 2024 ACM Awards was completely captivated by the performance, which felt both personal and universal at the same time. Fans at the event and those watching from home were drawn into the magic of the moment. The seamless harmony between Blake and Gwen, combined with their genuine connection, created an unforgettable performance.

Reba McEntire’s warm introduction set the stage for this special moment, and Gwen and Blake’s performance of “Purple Irises” became one of the standout highlights of the evening. For everyone in the audience, it was clear that this couple was not only made for each other but destined to create beautiful music together, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.

Dolly and Carl Have Shared the Same House Since 1999
Dolly Parton is one of the most recognizable country icons – but it’s only recently that her home has reflected her colorful personality.

The 9-5 singer is reportedly worth an impressive $650 million, but she hasn’t used her wealth to splurge on a new property. Dolly still lives in the same house in Brentwood, Nashville, that she purchased in 1999 for $400,000. She shares it with her husband, Carl Dean, and while she may have bought it for a reasonable fee, it’s not lacking when it comes to luxe amenities.

The property features its own tennis court, swimming pool, chapel, and farm, according to the Kiwi Report. During the pandemic, Dolly unveiled more of the inside than ever before, and it’s surprisingly lowkey for such a characterful country singer…

Dolly Parton’s kitchen

Dolly’s kitchen appears to be the most colorful room in the house and has had an upgrade since she last gave fans a glimpse inside.

The 9 to 5 singer added some festive touches over the holiday season, including red wreaths, red and white gingham curtains, and several red accessories. The space is filled with modern appliances alongside white cupboards, which have remained to this day.

Before Christmas, Dolly had a different color scheme in her kitchen, which included plenty of pinks from her artwork to her cooking utensils.

Dolly previously invited Reese Witherspoon into her home back in 2018 to film the first episode of Reese’s YouTube series, Shine On.

They filmed from the kitchen which had a lot less color back then. The room is fitted with white wooden cupboards and a brown central island with white marble worktops. Dolly’s appliances are silver, including two dishwashers, a double fridge, and a double oven.

Dolly Parton’s living room

Dolly gave fans a glimpse inside another living room inside her home, which she also gave a festive makeover, with purple and white Christmas trees surrounding a cream armchair.

The white paneled walls also feature new artwork, and Dolly added some candles to a white, wooden coffee table.

Another living room features a cream leather armchair and a small mirrored side table holding a bubble lamp and a butterfly ornament.

A video filmed from a different angle in the room showed that other furniture includes a brown sofa with burgundy and brown patterned cushions and a floral burgundy rug.

Dolly Parton’s music room

Dolly has her very own music room, complete with a black piano. It’s decorated with cream walls and patterned green carpet, as well as ruched floral blinds.

Although unclear whether it’s in the same room, Dolly also has an enormous collection of awards from her career in one room, complete with a large painting honoring her achievement of selling 100 million records worldwide. In keeping with the vintage theme of the home, it features patterned wallpaper and wooden furniture.

Dolly Parton’s hallway

Dolly’s hallway is painted light yellow and has a wooden stair banister. She has also added a retro wooden side dresser on one side, and a glass candle lantern in the corner. Add the following script only if it’s not already included in your site

Dolly Parton attends the 58th Academy Of Country Music Awards in Frisco, Texas, on May 11, 2023. | Source: Getty Images

Dolly Parton is a phenomenal singer, well-known globally. Yet, prior to achieving fame, she was simply a young girl with grand aspirations, raised in a modest one-bedroom log cabin in Sevierville, Tennessee.

Dolly’s parents, Avie Lee Owens and Robert Lee Parton were only teenagers when they got married. By the time they were 35 and 37, they had 12 kids, six girls and six boys. As much as the family didn’t have much, they had each other.

Dolly referred to her family as mountain people who grew up in the church. The kids grew up knowing Jesus loved them and understanding that through God, all things were possible, a belief that gave Dolly strength throughout her life.

Dolly Parton attends the Dolly! All Access Pop-Up Store Preview & Press Conference at The Star in Frisco, Texas on May 9, 2023. | Source: Getty Images

Dolly was born in the Smoky Mountains, a place that she holds close to her heart. She recalled how they had no hospitals nearby. So, when her mother was having trouble giving birth, her dad rushed to call a missionary doctor who took care of the poor mountain people.

Dolly Parton speaks onstage during the 58th Academy Of Country Music Awards in Frisco, Texas, on May 11, 2023. | Source: Getty Images

The doctor assisted in delivering Dolly, and her father compensated him with a sack of cornmeal since they lacked the means to pay in money. “I’ve always joked and said that I’ve been raking in the dough ever since,” joked Dolly.

The singer’s desire for a better life started at their family home. The two-roomed house had no electricity or running water. At night, the family would catch fireflies and keep them in a jar to light up the house.

A look into the house, which still stands today, shows that it wasn’t a mansion but it was a home to the singer and her family. Dolly’s family cabin had a kitchen with a stove, a small pantry, and a table with six seats.

Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@acdcnut2011

A washing basin was placed between the kitchen and bedroom, which were separated by only a two-thirds wall. The family had no television, and Dolly confessed that she had been featured on local television before her family ever owned one.

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home at Dollywood | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

To preserve memories of her childhood and share aspects of it with her fans, Dolly has created a replica of her family home in Dollywood. The house stands close to the entrance to Dollywood and has a sign written “Tennessee Mountain Home.”

The sign also reads, “These mountains and my childhood home have a special place in my heart. They inspire my music and life. I hope being here does the same for you.” This message is signed, “Dolly.”

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

The replica, designed by Dolly’s mother and built by her brother Bobby, has original family treasures throughout. When one steps inside, they see the first part of the house, the kitchen, whose wall is covered with old newspapers and a floral wallpaper.

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

The kitchen table is set with plates and aluminum coffee cups. There’s a wood stove in the corner, while utensils such as pans and bowls hang on the wall. The other tables are covered with decorative clothes while more cups, jars, tins, and plates line the wooden shelves. A basket filled with firewood sits on the floor.

The kitchen also has a washing space at the door of the bedroom. Hanging on the thin wall that separates the kitchen and bedroom is a 1946 calendar, showing her birth month, January, and her birthday, the 19th, circled.

When one enters the bedroom, one can see a bed pushed against the wall and pictures of Dolly’s father and mother hanging on the wall above it.

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

Other picture frames hang next to a dressing mirror, which is pinned above a dressing table. There’s a wooden chair next to the bed and sewing machine, and another chair in the furthest corner of the bedroom. The bedroom also hosts a simple cabinet with shelves that has a book and other items. The bedroom leads to a long and narrow porch through its back door.

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

Dolly mentioned standing on the porch of the Locust Ridge house in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. There, she would insert a tobacco stick into the cracks of the porch and position a tin can on the stick as a makeshift microphone. The singer proceeded to sing for the pigs, dogs, chickens, and kids as she pictured a bigger world. “I Imagined it, I dreamed it, I worked for it, and God was good enough to let me have it,” she proclaimed.

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

Replica of Dolly Parton’s Childhood Home | Source: Youtube.com/@OurShowOurStory

Dolly’s parents gave her and her siblings a good life, even though they were poor. The singer playfully remarked that her family didn’t realize they were poor until someone pointed it out to them.

The “Jolene” songstress recalled, “We didn’t have any money, but we were rich in things that money don’t buy. You know, like love and kindness and understanding[sic].” Still, the country star wanted more in life. She remembered that when graduating high school, she announced that she was going to Nashville to be a star, but so many people laughed at her that she was embarrassed.

However, Dolly knew what she wanted. “I just knew that I wanted to be out in a bigger world. I knew there was more than just the Smokies. I love my people, I love my home, but I just wanted to do more,” she narrated.

Even Dolly’s mom saw how determined she was and wasn’t surprised when her daughter broke so big because she had expected it.

When asked what paved the way for her, Dolly revealed that her mother’s side was very musical. As much as they focused on the gospel, they could play instruments. Her uncle Billy Owens taught her all the chords of the guitar as he saw how serious Dolly was with her singing.

From these poor and humble beginnings, Dolly has grown to become one of the most famous country music singers. In addition to a prolific music career, the 79-year-old had a successful marriage with Carl Thomas Dean, who sadly passed away recently. The two met at, who had been together for nearly six decades, first met at a laundromat in the ’60s.

Despite their differing personalities, Dolly and Carl worked harmoniously together. Carl was a loner who preferred staying at home and taking care of their farm rather than socializing. While he loved music, he was not involved in the music industry. Dolly often remarked that these differences brought them closer, providing them with plenty to discuss.

The singer said these differences give them things to talk about. “We have a lot of love and respect for each other,” shared Dolly. They also enjoyed a lot of fun together, sharing a mutual, slightly eccentric sense of humor.

Together, Carl and Dolly cherished a simple life, often traveling around Tennessee in their camper, sightseeing, and soaking up a bit of history in all the exceptionally beautiful places they visited. Dolly Parton, who enjoys cooking, occasionally packed picnics for their excursions. She has indeed come a long way from her early days, achieving a remarkable career and enjoying a cozy life with Carl, whose memory remains cherished.

Few artists have had the kind of enduring success and universal appeal as Lionel Richie. With a career spanning over five decades, Richie has made an indelible mark on the music industry—first as the frontman of the Commodores, one of Motown’s most successful groups, and later as a solo artist whose catalog includes some of the most iconic songs in pop and R&B history.

But despite his own legendary status, Richie has always been vocal about the artists who inspired him to pursue a career in music. One name that often comes up in his interviews? Neil Diamond.

In fact, Lionel Richie has stated on multiple occasions that he got into the music industry because of Neil Diamond. It’s a surprising revelation for those who primarily associate Richie with Motown and soul music, but it speaks to the far-reaching influence of Diamond’s songwriting and storytelling.

A Full-Circle Moment at the Kennedy Center Honors

Fast-forward to 2011, and Richie was given the chance to pay tribute to the very man who inspired him to become a musician. That year, Neil Diamond was one of the honorees at the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors, a lifetime achievement recognition given to artists who have significantly impacted American culture through the performing arts.

During the ceremony, Lionel Richie took the stage and delivered a stirring performance of Diamond’s 1971 classic, “I Am… I Said”—a deeply personal song about loneliness, longing, and identity.

Richie’s rendition was both powerful and deeply emotional, proving that Diamond’s music resonates across genres and generations. He didn’t attempt to imitate Diamond’s original vocal style; instead, he infused the song with his own signature smoothness and soulful delivery, making it an unforgettable moment in the evening’s festivities.

A Career Built on Timeless Music

Lionel Richie’s tribute to Diamond was particularly special because, much like his idol, Richie has built his career on timeless, universally loved music. His journey began in the 1970s as the lead singer of the Commodores, where he penned and performed hits like “Easy,” “Three Times a Lady,” and “Still.” The group became one of Motown’s biggest acts, seamlessly blending soul, funk, and pop to create a unique sound that stood out even among the era’s musical giants.

However, it was Richie’s transition into a solo career in the 1980s that cemented his status as a global superstar. With chart-topping songs like “Hello,” “Stuck On You,” “All Night Long,” and “Dancing on the Ceiling,” Richie became one of the most recognizable voices in the world. His ability to cross genres—from R&B to pop to country—mirrored Neil Diamond’s own versatility as a songwriter and performer.

Richie’s success didn’t just come from his own performances. He also wrote songs for some of the biggest stars of all time, including Diana Ross (Endless Love) and Michael Jackson (We Are the World), further showcasing his unparalleled ability to craft music that resonates with audiences across generations.

From Honoree to Legend

In 2017, six years after honoring Neil Diamond at the Kennedy Center, Lionel Richie himself received the same prestigious recognition at the 40th Annual Kennedy Center Honors. The moment was a testament to his impact on the music industry and a reflection of how he had followed in the footsteps of artists like Diamond, creating music that transcends time, culture, and genre.

Lionel Richie’s performance of I Am… I Said at the 2011 Kennedy Center Honors wasn’t just a tribute to Neil Diamond—it was a full-circle moment, where one legend honored another, proving that music’s greatest power lies in its ability to inspire and connect people across generations.

“I Will Always Love You” is a timeless ballad written and originally recorded by country music icon Dolly Parton. Released in 1973, the song was penned as a farewell to her former partner and mentor, Porter Wagoner, when she decided to pursue a solo career. The heartfelt lyrics and Parton’s emotive delivery resonated with audiences, resulting in the song’s enduring popularity. Its success cemented Parton’s status as a formidable songwriter and performer in the music industry.

Over the years, “I Will Always Love You” has transcended its initial country roots, becoming an iconic piece of music history. It gained even greater fame when Whitney Houston covered it for the soundtrack of the 1992 film “The Bodyguard,” transforming it into a pop and R&B powerhouse hit. Houston’s rendition introduced the song to a global audience, solidifying its place in popular culture.

About The Composition

• Title: I Will Always Love You
• Composer: Dolly Parton
• Premiere Date: 1973
• Album/Opus/Collection: Jolene
• Genre: Country

Background

“I Will Always Love You” was written by Dolly Parton as a personal farewell to Porter Wagoner, who played a significant role in her early career. The song reflects Parton’s gratitude and bittersweet emotions upon leaving Wagoner’s show to pursue independence. Initially released as part of her album “Jolene,” the track became an immediate success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Its emotional depth and sincerity struck a chord with listeners, ensuring its place as a classic in Parton’s repertoire.

The song’s influence extended beyond Parton’s own career. It was later recorded by several artists, with Whitney Houston’s 1992 version achieving monumental success. Houston’s powerful vocal performance and the song’s inclusion in “The Bodyguard” soundtrack helped it top charts worldwide, introducing the song to new generations and cementing its status as a cultural touchstone.

Musical Style

Dolly Parton’s original version of “I Will Always Love You” is characterized by its simple yet poignant melody, underscored by gentle acoustic guitar and Parton’s expressive vocal delivery. The song’s structure follows a classic ballad form, with a focus on storytelling and emotional expression. Houston’s cover introduced a more dramatic arrangement, featuring orchestral elements and a climactic vocal crescendo, which highlighted her vocal range and brought a new dimension to the song.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “I Will Always Love You” convey themes of love, gratitude, and farewell. Parton’s words express a deep appreciation for the past and a hopeful look towards the future, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of parting ways. The song’s universal message of enduring love and respect, despite separation, resonates with listeners across different contexts and relationships.

Performance History

Dolly Parton first performed “I Will Always Love You” on her television show, and it quickly became a staple of her live performances. Whitney Houston’s rendition at the 1994 Grammy Awards is one of the most memorable performances, showcasing her vocal prowess and further solidifying the song’s legacy. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each bringing their unique interpretation to the classic ballad.

Cultural Impact

“I Will Always Love You” has had a significant cultural impact, with Houston’s version becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. The song’s presence in “The Bodyguard” film and its subsequent popularity contributed to the soundtrack’s massive success. The song has appeared in various media, including television shows and movies, and continues to be a favorite choice for performances in singing competitions and talent shows.

Legacy

The enduring importance of “I Will Always Love You” lies in its universal message and emotional resonance. The song’s ability to connect with audiences across generations and genres speaks to its timeless appeal. Parton’s songwriting brilliance and Houston’s iconic vocal interpretation have ensured the song’s place in the pantheon of great musical works, inspiring countless artists and listeners worldwide.

Conclusion

“I Will Always Love You” remains a testament to the power of heartfelt songwriting and the transformative nature of music. Its legacy continues to inspire and move audiences, inviting listeners to explore the rich emotional landscape it offers. Whether through Parton’s original rendition or Houston’s powerful cover, the song stands as a beacon of love and farewell, encouraging us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of human relationships.

Video

Lyrics

If I should stay
Well I would only be in your way
And so I’ll go, and yet I know
I’ll think of you each step of the way
And I will always love you
I will always love you
Bitter-sweet memories
That’s all I’m taking with me
Good-bye, please don’t cry
‘Cause we both know that I’m not
What you need
But I will always love you
I will always love you
And I hope life, will treat you kind
And I hope that you have all
That you ever dreamed of
Oh I do wish you joy
And I wish you happiness
But above all this
I wish you love
I love you
I will always love you
I, I will always, always love you
I will always love you
I will always love you
I will always love you

Onions are believed to originate in central Asia, in modern-day Iran and Pakistan, and they have been among the earliest cultivated crops.

They were grown in Chinese gardens as early as 5,000 years ago, and are referred to in the oldest Vedic writings from India. As early as the sixth century B.C., a medical treatise, the Charaka Sanhita, celebrates this popular vegetable as a potent natural medicine, a diuretic, and remedy for the eyes, joints, and digestion.

In Egypt, onions were planted as far back as 3500 B.C. and they were worshiped as symbols of eternity due to their circle-within-a-circle structure. There were numerous paintings of onions on the inner walls of pyramids and other tombs.

Onions were buried with mummies, as people believed their strong scent had magical powers that would prompt the dead to breathe again.

Onions are also mentioned in the Bible, and the Greeks used them to fortify athletes for the Olympic games. The Romans consumed these vegetables regularly as well and used their countless medicinal properties.  Romans used onions to treat mouth sores, dog bites, poor vision, sleep issues, toothaches, dysentery, and lumbago.

By the Middle Ages, they were among the three main vegetables of European cuisine, together with beans, and cabbage, and were used to treat headaches, snakebites and hair loss.

Onions were brought by the Pilgrims on the Mayflower, but they found that Native Americans were already using wild onions in various ways.

Onion is an incredibly healthy vegetable and a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Onions belong to the Allium genus, together with garlic, scallions (green onions), leeks, and chives.

This vegetable can be of many varieties, and all of them are highly beneficial. The onion bulb can be red, white, or yellow, and the taste can range from mild and sweet to sharp and pungent.

The yellow variety is the most common in cooking, and white onions have a milder and crispier flavor. Red onions are also referred to as purple onions, and they aren’t as sharp and astringent as the yellow ones but are the highest in antioxidants.

The three varieties also differ in their nutritional value, but they are all rich in vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial micronutrients. They all have 40 calories per 100 grams, and a medium-sized onion contains nearly 2 grams of fiber. 100 grams of onions contain 9.3 grams of carbs and 4 grams of sugar. They all contain trace amounts of vitamins C and B-group vitamins, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, manganese, and magnesium.

Onions contain decent amounts of several vitamins and minerals, and these are the main ones:

Vitamin C- which strengthens the immune function and improves skin and hair health 

Vitamin B6- It is essential for the formation of red blood cells

Potassium- This essential mineral lowers blood pressure and improves heart health 

Folate (B9)— This water-soluble B-vitamin is vital for cell growth and metabolism, and is especially important for pregnant women

Onions are abundant in amino acids, such as lysine, threonine, leucine, and phenylalanine which are important for the metabolic processes in the body.

Scallions are sometimes referred to as green onions, and a large one provides 52 mcg of vitamin K (65% RDI), 4.7 mg vitamin C (8% RDI), and all the essential amino acids other onions contain.

Onions are high in unique antioxidants and dietary flavonoids. A kilogram of fresh yellow onions contains between 270 and 1187 mg flavonoids, and red onions contain even more, between 415 and 1917 mg per kilo. Red onions are also rich in anthocyanins which prevent numerous diseases.

Onions also contain quercetin, which has powerful antimicrobial properties and lowers blood pressure. The sulfur-containing compounds in onions also have potent anticancer properties. Anthocyanins are powerful antioxidants and pigments that give onions their reddish color, while thiosulfinates are sulfur-containing compounds that may inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms and prevent the formation of blood clots.

Onions are incredibly versatile, so take a look at their numerous health benefits:

• The daily consumption of onions reduces inflammatory responses in the body and prevents chronic diseases like heart disease
• Onions regulate blood glucose spikes after meals and reduce fasting blood glucose in people with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes
• Onions lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, reduce blood pressure, and support heart health
• The consumption of onion skin tea has been found to support weight loss and to prevent obesity
• Onions have potent antimicrobial properties that destroy various bacteria and germs, such as Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)
• Onions boost blood circulation and prevent blood clotting
• Onions lower blood cholesterol levels
• Onions improve digestion and prevent Clostridium difficile-related diarrhea (a bacteria that causes colon inflammation). They have a type of dietary fiber called oligofructose, which has probiotic effects and treats diarrhea associated with C. diff infections.
• Onions are rich in flavonoids and antioxidants that boost bone health and density, lower the risk of fractures, osteoporosis, and brittle bones
• Red onions prevent prostate problems and lower the risk of prostate cancer
• Raw onions boost the immune system and prevent infections, and increase white blood cell count which is an essential factor in the immunity 
• The high amount of beneficial antioxidants lower the risk of cancer, especially stomach cancer, colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer, and prostate cancer
• Onion destroys intestinal parasites, especially tapeworm and threadworms
• Onion juice boosts hair growth and prevents scalp infections that can lead to hair loss

You should store onions in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, in a mesh bag or a loosely covered paper. You can keep properly stored onions in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 months.

When it comes to the recommended daily dosage of onions, average daily doses of 50 g of fresh onion, 50 g of fresh onion juice, or 20 g of dried onion have been suggested.

When it comes to their adverse effects, onions can lead to stomach pain, bad breath if consumed in high amounts, odorous gas, and contact dermatitis if the juice irritates the skin.

Additionally, people have used onions as folk natural remedies in the following ways for centuries:

• Onions make you cry while you cut them, which can be helpful in the case of debris or other irritant caught in the eye
• Add onion juice to peppermint tea to treat vomiting
• Place a fresh slice of onion on mosquito bites to soothe the itching
• Sleeping with onion slices in the socks has been used as a natural way to detoxify the body and treat colds and the flu
• Apply onion flesh on warts, secure with a bandage, and leave it to act overnight to get rid of these skin growths
• Chew onion with the wisdom tooth to soothe the pain
• To eliminate excess earwax and soothe an earache, place an onion core into the ear, leave it overnight, and remove it in the morning
• Onion syrups have been used to treat common colds and all their symptoms

In a sneak peek from season 23 of American Idol, Slater Nalley auditioned with an original song he wrote for his teacher’s late son — and it struck a chord with judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and  Lionel Richie.

Before Nalley entered the room, his high school English teacher, Mrs. Davis, shared her story with the judges.

“I am not performing today… I’m so grateful to be here. I have a special student of mine, Slater Nalley, and he wrote a song for my son who was killed eight years ago,” she began.

She continued, “Slater had heard the story about my son and I had written a poem and the second year that I taught him I asked, ‘Would you mind looking at the poem? I would love to see what your thoughts are and how you turn a poem into a song.’ So he did and two weeks later, he wrote the song and that’s what he’s going to sing today.”

Slater then made his way into the room and Bryan, 48, announced: “You have had the coolest introduction ever.”

Then, Slater spoke about the inspiration for the song.

“This song is called ‘Traces of You,’ I wrote it for Carter Davis,” he said, before adding in a one-on-one, “I didn’t know Carter before this happened and when Mrs. Davis told us, I just felt this presence come into my life essentially and I knew that I needed to do something. I went home and started working away on little notebook pages and eventually it turned into a song.”

Slater proceeded to sing the song while strumming along to his guitar — and the performance brought the “Before He Cheats” singer, 41, to tears.

“The moment breaks and you appear / And for a second I swear you’re standing right here / I’d give anything for love to be enough to make it true / As the memories come racing in the view / These traces of you,” he sang emotionally.

Once he was done singing, the judges hugged and comforted one another as Underwood wiped her teas away.

“Even though this was about your son, every single person that hears that can fill in that memory with somebody that’s in themselves. I couldn’t have imagined you doing that any better,” she said.

“That one line, ‘Your life was like a river running home,’ that moves man. That’s the one,” added Richie, 75.

“You just stick to walking on stage and singing with your heart. The rest will take care of itself,” Bryan continued.

When it came time for the final decision, the “Hello” singer explained that “sometimes we don’t have to vote.”

Bryan gave the judges a countdown and together they announced: “You’re going to Hollywood!”

Nalley then reached for his teacher and gave her a hug.

“To have this gift, it’s like a little piece of Carter gets to live on in song,” she said.

American Idol season 23 premieres on March 9 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

Fans will get a preview of the upcoming season on March 2, when ABC airs a special after the 97th Oscars

Over the years, Dolly Parton became more than a country singer as she fashioned a career that made her a business expert. Using her voice as a launching pad, the singer went on to build an entire franchise surrounding her likeness. And as she continues to release new music and collaborate with rising stars, Dolly recently shared the heartbreaking news that her husband, Carl Dean, passed away at 82 years old. Saddened over his passing, the country singer decided to honor his love and support for her over the years by releasing a new song in his honor.

On March 6th, Dolly shared a new song, “If You Hadn’t Been There”, on Instagram. The song came with a picture of the singer with her husband when they were younger. Wrapping her arms around Dean, Dolly appeared all smiles. Throughout the song, the lyrics reflected on the support Dean offered Dolly during her career. Standing behind her from the beginning, Dean opted for a life outside of the spotlight. But that never stopped him from showing his support and love for one of the biggest names in country music.

Besides releasing the new song, Dolly also wrote a heartfelt message. “I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old. We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together. Like all great love stories, they never end. They live on in memory and song. He will always be the star of my life story, and I dedicate this song to him.”

Dolly Parton Thankful For Support

With fans showering Dolly with support through the difficult time, the singer never forgot her fans when she thanked each one of them for their love. In another Instagram post, she wrote, “This is a love note to family, friends, and fans. Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you’ve sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband Car. I can’t reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me.”

Dolly ended the message, knowing that Dean was in good hands. “He is in God’s arms now and I am okay with that. I will always love you.”

Dolly and Dean (1964 – 2025)

Parton first met Dean the day after she moved from her hometown of Sevierville, Tennessee to Nashville in 1964. “I met him the first day I got to Nashville, in 1964,” recalled Parton in an interview with Andy Warhol and Mary Moynihan for Interview magazine in 1984. “I graduated on a Friday night, went to Nashville on a Saturday morning with dirty clothes and I went to a Laundromat looking for anything but love. I had just left two boyfriends back home and I wasn’t looking to get involved because I had gone to Nashville to really get started in the business.”

Parton continued, “I met him at the Why Washy and he’s been wishy-washy ever since. We dated for two years before we got married. I often get myself in love trouble because I’m so passionate—I love so much and so deep. But Carl’s a special guy, I didn’t have any problems with him.”

The two married on May 30, 1966, during a private ceremony in Ringgold, Georgia. Throughout their marriage, Dean kept a mostly low profile, keeping their relationship as private as possible, and continued working for his asphalt paving business in Nashville. “A lot of people say there’s no Carl Dean,” Parton said in 1984, “that he’s just somebody I made up to keep other people off me.”

Though he wanted to remain mostly out of the public eye, Dean always supported Parton and her career. He even inspired some songs that Parton wrote early on, including her 1974 hit “Jolene,” inspired by an auburn-haired bank teller, who developed a crush on him in the late ’60s. Throughout the decades, Parton also penned more songs about Dean, including “Forever Love,” “Say Forever You’ll Be Mine,” “From Here to the Moon and Back,” and “Marry Me.”

Dean died on March 3, 2025, at age 82.

At the 57th Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, held on March 7, 2022, Kelly Clarkson delivered a powerful rendition of “I Will Always Love You” in tribute to Dolly Parton, who co-hosted the event.

The performance was met with widespread acclaim, with Parton herself expressing deep emotion, stating, “I was backstage trying not to cry my false eyelashes off.”

Clarkson’s interpretation honored both Parton’s original 1974 composition and Whitney Houston’s iconic 1992 cover, showcasing her vocal prowess and ability to convey deep emotion. The performance stood out as a highlight of the evening, further cementing Clarkson’s versatility and talent in the music industry.

For those who wish to experience this memorable performance, you can watch it below:

In 2013, LeAnn Rimes took the stage at the American Country Awards for an emotional tribute to the late Patsy Cline, leaving the audience spellbound with her flawless delivery of “Crazy” and “Leavin’ on Your Mind.”

The American Country Awards is known for its fan-driven nominations and high-energy performances, but one year, LeAnn Rimes delivered a memorable moment that took the audience back in time.

The 2013 ceremony, held at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, honored Patsy Cline, one of the most influential vocalists of the 20^th century.

Cline, known for her smooth, expressive voice and timeless hits like “I Fall to Pieces,” “Crazy” and “Leavin’ on Your Mind,” the latter song, heartbreakingly, was one of her last releases before a 1963 plane crash claimed her life at the age of 30.

Though her life was cut short, her music continues to inspire generations of artists, including Rimes, who’s long been compared to the legendary singer.

In fact, the two-time Grammy winner, who released her first hit single when she was only 13, revealed her “sound” was influenced by a number of artists, specifically the late Cline.

“[Cline] was such a huge part of how I created my sound,” Rimes said in a 2021 article. “From [Cline], really it was about this true, honest, emotional connection and the way that she could just take you to a place that you don’t normally go within yourself when you listened to her music.”

Channeled Cline

The moment Rimes stepped onto the ACM stage, the atmosphere shifted, and the audience silenced their cheers as she started singing a medley of Cline’s songs that included “Crazy” and “Leavin’ on Your Mind.”

As Rimes’ channelled the spirit of Cline with grace and emotion, the audience was captivated by her ability to convey the deep longing and heartache embedded in the lyrics.

By the time she finished, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Fans and fellow artists erupted in applause, many visibly moved by the powerful tribute.

And for Rimes, the performance was also a full-circle moment – an opportunity to honor the artist who had influenced her own career so profoundly.

Bridging time

Years later, fans still talk about this incredible tribute, offering their praise on the YouTube clip that shows Rimes’ performance.

“Beautiful, sassy, sultry, funny and has such beautiful voice, she can sing virtually anything. Nobody does Patsy Cline like LeAnn!!!” one online writes in 2015 of the video that’s been viewed 6.7 million times..

“It’s 2021 and Patsy is still with us. Most of us will pass and quickly be forgotten. Her life was short, but she just might live forever. How amazing is that!” shares a second.

In 2025, a third writes “And that folks is what a real singer sounds like!”

LeeAnn Rimes’ tribute to Patsy Cline at the 2013 ACM Awards was more than just a performance – it was a moment of pure musical magic. With her stunning renditions of “Crazy” and “Leavin’ on Your Mind,” she paid a touching tribute to one of country music’s greatest legends.

Even years later, this performance stands as a shining example of the power of music to honor the past while inspiring the future.