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.

In 2015, Allie Colleen—daughter of country icon Garth Brooks—delivered a touching tribute to Keith Whitley with her rendition of “Don’t Close Your Eyes.” Shared on her Facebook page, the performance revealed Allie’s deep respect for classic country music while showcasing her own vocal talents. Her raw, intimate cover quickly captivated fans, earning admiration for its simplicity and emotional depth.

A Personal Connection to a Country Classic

“Don’t Close Your Eyes,” written by Bob McDill and originally performed by Keith Whitley in 1988, is one of country music’s timeless hits, as mentioned by American Songwriter. The song tells the story of a man whose partner is still emotionally tied to a past love. Whitley’s soulful delivery made it an instant No. 1 hit. The song holds personal significance for Allie—it’s one of her favorites.

When Allie shared her version, she admired Whitley’s work, writing, “This is my ultimate favorite song, and I hope I do it justice. RIP Keith Whitley.” The performance did exactly that. Her cover wasn’t just a tribute but a heartfelt interpretation of a beloved country classic. The video, which focused on her guitar playing and emotional vocal delivery, allowed listeners to focus solely on the music.

With a soft, angelic voice hinting at vulnerability, Allie brought a fresh perspective to Whitley’s classic. The minimalistic setup—just her voice and acoustic guitar—helped spotlight her raw talent as she effortlessly captured the song’s melancholy tone. The simplicity of the arrangement made it even more powerful, resonating deeply with her audience.

Carving Her Own Path While Honoring Country Legends

As the youngest daughter of Garth Brooks, Allie Colleen is no stranger to country music. While her family’s influence is undeniable, she’s been determined to build her legacy. Her cover of “Don’t Close Your Eyes” reflects her ability to honor the past while showcasing her artistry. Despite growing up in a household full of musical greatness, Allie brings something uniquely her own.

Her fans have responded to her authenticity, with the video garnering over 220,000 views since its release. The praise for her rendition highlights her natural ability to connect with listeners and convey deep emotion through her music. Although the video was simple, it allowed Allie’s voice to shine, leaving fans eager for more.

Allie Colleen’s tribute to Whitley reminds us of the timelessness of great country music. Her rendition of “Don’t Close Your Eyes” honored a legend and introduced her growing audience to her undeniable talent. If you haven’t yet watched it, this mesmerizing performance is worth your time.

Country music legends Dolly Parton and Vince Gill joined forced with country super star Keith Urban during a benefit concert at The Country Music Museum and Hall of Fame, treating guests to a remarkable performance of a country classic.

Parton opened up their performance by confessing her admiration for fellow performer Gill, admitting to the audience that, years and years back, she often wondered if the singer felt lonely seeing that he was so far from home. “I wrote him a note one time, and I said, ‘Well, call on me if you need me. I can be your other mother, your other lover, or the sister you never wanted.’ Of course, I never hear back from him on it,” she laughed.

After a few impromptu jokes directed at her crowd and various outspoken crowd members, Parton introduced their following performance as they gradually transitioned into a chilling rendition of George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today”. 

The audience was speechless as Parton’s sensational vocals carried the incredibly moving lyrics, singing, “He kept her picture on his wall/ Went half crazy now and then/ He still loved her through it all/ Hoping she’d come back again.”

As the song continued, Urban and Gill joined the singer, accompanying her vocals throughout the chorus and haunting lyrics, “You know she came to see him one last time/ Oh and we all wondered if she would/ And it kept running through my mind/ This time he’s over her for good.”

Listen to this inspiring performance below and tell us what you thought.

At the 2007 ACM Awards, Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire delivered a memorable performance of “Because of You,” a powerful song from Clarkson’s acclaimed album Breakaway. Originally released in 2004, the song explores themes of heartbreak and regret, resonating deeply with audiences due to its raw honesty.

In their duet, Clarkson’s soaring pop-rock vocals beautifully intertwined with McEntire’s rich, storytelling tone, creating a performance that transcended genres and captivated the audience. This collaboration was particularly noteworthy as it marked McEntire’s admiration for Clarkson, whom she had watched grow as an artist since they first met in 2002.

The performance at the ACM Awards not only showcased their vocal prowess but also solidified their bond as artists. Following the event, their rendition of “Because of You” gained significant acclaim, peaking at number two on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. It even earned a Grammy nomination for Best Vocal Country Collaboration​.

Clarkson expressed her deep respect for McEntire, emphasizing how much she has learned from her throughout her career. McEntire, in turn, praised Clarkson’s development as an artist, reflecting on how proud she was of her growth​.

This performance remains a highlight in both artists’ careers, showcasing the power of collaboration and the emotional depth that music can evoke.

In a truly unforgettable moment during The X-Factor 2016, Adam Lambert shocked both the audience and his fellow judges when he left his seat to join a contestant on stage. As the contestant passionately performed Queen’s iconic hit “I Want To Break Free,” Adam, clearly excited by the performance, couldn’t resist the urge to jump in. Grabbing a microphone, he joined in for an impromptu duet, transforming the moment into an extraordinary, unexpected performance.

The crowd in the studio erupted in cheers as Adam and the contestant delivered an energetic and flawless rendition of the classic song. This spontaneous moment, featuring two incredible voices, took the performance to new heights, making it one of the most thrilling moments of the entire season. The atmosphere in the studio was electric, with the energy radiating through the room and a sense of excitement palpable in every note.

The response from the judges was equally electrifying. Iggy Azalea, who had been watching from the panel, was visibly thrilled by the performance. Her reaction quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the night, drawing attention from fans and media outlets alike. With millions of viewers tuning in to the 2016 season of The X-Factor, this impromptu duet became a viral sensation.

The choice of “I Want To Break Free,” a song originally released by Queen in 1984, added an extra layer of excitement. Known for its upbeat melody and powerful message of independence, the song perfectly showcased Adam Lambert’s vocal prowess and his undeniable connection with the contestant. This unforgettable moment will undoubtedly go down in The X-Factor history as one of its most extraordinary performances.

Seriously, this singing couple is a match made in heaven! Something just really sounds heavenly when Andrea Bocelli and Helene Fischer come together to collaborate on a duet of “When I Fall In Love.” Imagine this, a lovely opening trumpet solo sets the mood for a romantic song, after which Bocelli’s smooth, deep voice takes you and wraps you in the warmth of the 50’s pop classic. Fischer then takes the helm in leading vocal front and kept the love train rolling with her emotional vocal performance. Together they create nothing short of a symphony of passion that feels like stepping into a dream.

Bocelli might already be a well-established world class singer, but Fischer may be a revelation to the English speaking audiences. She sure is a hidden gem that boasts immense talent. From a solo point, the German star did really well tackling that Bocelli duet and their voices together were simply divine.

When I Fall In Love | Andrea Bocelli and Helene Fischer

This performance was not only a magical moment for the live audience but was captured on film as part of the Bocelli’s iconic Love in Portofino concert which were later released. The fans just couldn’t get enough of him helping him rack upto 22 Million views on YouTube.

Several videos became big hits on YouTube from the Love In Portofino concert. One of the most popular highlights from that night is Bocelli with virtuoso American violinist Caroline Campbell driving unison on the traditional Cuban song “Quizas Quizas Quizas.” The performance was the 7th top performing video for Bocelli on his own channel and managed to amass a staggering 68 million views. Foster returns at the beginning this performance, providing a little context for how they cut their version of the tune.

Andrea Bocelli & Caroline Campbell, “Quizas Quizas Quizas”

But let’s get back to the song “When I Fall in Love” which is a classic pop song, written by Victor Young and Edward Heyman. First vocal version was subsequently released of “When I Fall in Love” with Jeri Southern on vocals. Readers might also recognize the song from its 1956 version by Nat King Cole, one of the single greatest jazz vocal recordings ever. Since then it has become a part of the American songbook. Through the years, it has been covered by many artists including Michael Bublé, Rick Astley and Donny Osmond.