Willie Nelson Recorded I Will Always Love You Cover
Following the death of Dolly Parton in August 2026, the country music icon recorded his own version of her classic song.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Country
Willie Nelson has recorded a version of the song I Will Always Love You, a track originally written by Dolly Parton in 1974. The recording follows the passing of Parton, who died in August 2026.
Why it matters
The release honors the enduring legacy of Parton, who became a songwriting powerhouse after leaving The Porter Wagoner Show in 1974. Nelson and Parton shared a creative history spanning decades, including several notable studio collaborations.
The original composition was written by Parton in 1974. The two artists also collaborated on the 1982 duet Everything's Beautiful and recorded Pretty Paper together in 2020.
The players
Dolly Parton
She was an internationally acclaimed country music singer, songwriter, and actress who significantly shaped the genre over her decades-long career.
Willie Nelson
He is a legendary country music artist and songwriter known for his unique vocal style and extensive catalog of collaborative work.
The details
Nelson captured his version of the song during a recent studio session, marking a tribute to his longtime peer. The two musicians previously connected on projects like the 2013 song From Here to the Moon and Back and the album The Winning Hand.
Timeline
Dolly Parton left The Porter Wagoner Show in 1974.
Everything's Beautiful was released by the duo in 1982.
Parton appeared in the film Joyful Noise in 2012.
Nelson and Parton recorded From Here to the Moon in 2013.
Dolly Parton died in August 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This tribute reflects the deep-rooted collaborative culture within country music history, where artists frequently reinterpret foundational tracks to honor their peers. It highlights the continued relevance of classic songwriting in a modern streaming-dominated market.
Listeners should watch major streaming platforms for the upcoming release of the track. Fans can anticipate this version joining the extensive catalog of collaborative music shared by these two historic country figures.
The takeaway
The recording serves as a poignant reminder of the creative bonds formed by country music icons over several decades. Fans of the genre can revisit the artists' shared discography to appreciate the depth of their long-standing professional relationship.
Further reading
Explore more artist news and tributes in the Country section.
