Dolly Parton Final Vocal Performance Due November 13
The late music legend recorded her contribution to the new U2 track Torn before her death in August.
Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Pop
Interscope Records will release the new U2 album Carnaval De Luz on November 13, 2026, featuring the final recorded vocal performance of Dolly Parton. Parton recorded her vocals for the song Torn in June 2026 while battling cancer.
Why it matters
The track marks a significant cultural moment as the final studio contribution from the iconic singer, who chose to record the song because she wanted to perform it. It also serves as the centerpiece for the first album of new material from U2 in nine years.
Carnaval De Luz represents the first U2 album featuring new musical material in nine years. The record includes the song Torn, which features the final vocal performance recorded by the late Dolly Parton at age 80.
The players
Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton was a legendary country singer, songwriter, and philanthropist known for a career spanning decades and numerous chart-topping hits.
U2
U2 is a globally renowned Irish rock band that has produced numerous critically acclaimed albums and stadium tours throughout their career.
Bono
Bono is the longtime frontman and primary lyricist of the rock band U2.
Johnny McDaid
Johnny McDaid is a musician and songwriter who worked to restructure the lyrics for the track Torn.
Interscope Records
Interscope Records is a major American record label responsible for the release of the upcoming U2 album.
The details
Johnny McDaid restructured the lyrics for the song Torn before Dolly Parton recorded her vocals during the summer of 2026. The production brings together the legacy country star and U2 frontman Bono, who is 66 years old.
Timeline
Dolly Parton recorded vocals for the song Torn in June 2026.
Dolly Parton died at age 80 on August 25, 2026.
The album Carnaval De Luz will be released on November 13, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This release follows the trend of high-profile legacy acts returning to the studio after lengthy hiatuses to collaborate with other iconic artists. The collaboration on the 2026 release of Carnaval De Luz marks a significant departure from the band's nine-year gap in new material.
Fans can look forward to accessing the track as part of the full studio album available on major streaming platforms and physical formats beginning November 13, 2026. This release provides listeners with the final opportunity to hear new vocal work from the late Dolly Parton.
The takeaway
This final collaboration stands as a testament to the enduring influence of legendary performers even late in their careers. Listeners should look for the album release to experience the results of this high-profile creative partnership.
Further reading
Explore more upcoming music releases in the Pop section.
