Dolly Parton Video Message Airs in Nashville
The late icon shared a nearly two-minute recorded message during the Southeast U.S.-Japan Annual Joint Meeting.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Openings & Closings
Attendees at the Southeast U.S.-Japan Annual Joint Meeting in Nashville viewed a nearly two-minute video message from the late Dolly Parton. Recorded about 10 days before her death, the message was shared publicly with her authorization.
Why it matters
The message highlighted the enduring 50-year business partnership between the Southeast U.S. and Japan, a relationship that remains central to the region's economy. Japan currently stands as the largest foreign investor in Tennessee.
More than 60,000 people are employed by over 200 Japanese companies currently operating throughout Tennessee. This economic integration is part of a broader business partnership between the region and Japan that has spanned 50 years.
The players
Dolly Parton
The late music icon and cultural figure authorized the public airing of her final message for the international business meeting.
Bill Haslam
The former Governor of Tennessee served as a co-chair for the Southeast U.S.-Japan Annual Joint Meeting.
Southeast U.S.-Japan Association
This organization has facilitated trade and business partnerships between Japan and the American Southeast since 1976.
The details
The video was screened at the JW Marriott during the annual joint meeting co-chaired by former Governor Bill Haslam. Due to the high interest, attendees requested a second viewing of the recorded message.
Timeline
The Southeast U.S.-Japan Association was established in 1976.
The Annual Joint Meeting was held in October 2026.
Market Landscape
The meeting follows the collaborative precedent set by the Southeast U.S.-Japan Association's 1976 founding charter. This event reinforces the long-standing economic integration that positions Japanese firms as critical drivers of local employment.
The continued investment by Japanese firms provides stable employment for over 60,000 residents across the state. Local business professionals and residents may see continued regional economic growth as these international partnerships remain a priority for the state.
The takeaway
This event highlights the significant role that international trade partnerships play in maintaining local job markets and regional economic stability. Residents can observe how these longstanding corporate relationships continue to influence Tennessee's business climate.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest corporate and local developments in the Nashville Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wsmv.
