NASHVILLE, TN — As the world prepares to celebrate the 80th birthday of cultural icon Dolly Parton on January 19, 2026, the legendary singer-songwriter is doing what she does best: giving back. Rather than resting on her laurels, Parton has marked the milestone by releasing a powerful, star-studded new version of her 1977 classic, “Light of a Clear Blue Morning.”
A Message of Hope for a New Generation
Released today, January 16, the new rendition serves as a “song of deliverance” for a modern era. Fifty years after she first penned the lyrics during a period of professional transition, Parton has invited an all-female powerhouse lineup to join her. The track features the voices of Miley Cyrus, Reba McEntire, Lainey Wilson, and Queen Latifah, creating a cross-generational blend of country, pop, and soul.
The recording also features the legendary David Foster on piano and the Christ Church Choir on backing vocals. In a statement, Parton shared that the song’s message of resilience—”I can see the light of a brand new day”—feels more relevant than ever.
“I wrote this song when I was searching for hope, and fifty years later, that message still feels just as true,” Parton said. “As I celebrate my 80th birthday, this version is my way of using what I’ve been blessed with to shine a little light forward.”
A Birthday Gift to the Children
In true Dolly fashion, the release is a philanthropic endeavor. All net proceeds from the song and its accompanying music video will benefit the pediatric cancer research program at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville. This gesture continues Parton’s long-standing relationship with the hospital, where she has previously donated millions to support pediatric health.
Celebrations Across Nashville
While the birthday girl has scaled back her personal appearances recently due to health considerations, the industry is moving forward with massive tributes. On January 17, the Grand Ole Opry will host its fourth annual “Opry Goes Dolly” show. Though Parton will not attend in person—sending a heartfelt video message instead—stars like Vince Gill and Lainey Wilson will perform her 1980s-era hits. Five dollars from every ticket sold will be donated to her Imagination Library.
Beyond the music, 2026 is shaping up to be a banner year for the “Smoky Mountain DNA” singer. Fans can look forward to the opening of the Life of Many Colors Museum at her new SongTeller Hotel in Nashville, as well as the expansion of her multimedia symphonic tour, Threads: My Songs in Symphony.
At 80, Dolly Parton remains a relentless force of creativity and kindness, proving that for a “diamond in a rhinestone world,” the light is only getting brighter.
Sources & Links:
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) News Dolly Parton honors milestone birthday by giving back to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt
- Dolly Parton Official Archives Dolly Parton Archives – VUMC News
- iHeartCountry Radio Dolly Parton Reimagines Inspiring ’70s Classic Ahead Of 80th Birthday
- American Songwriter Vince Gill, Lainey Wilson, and More Set to Perform at Fourth Annual Opry Goes Dolly Show
- Taste of Country Dolly Parton Can’t Attend Her Opry Birthday Show — But She Sent a Video Message
- People.com Dolly Parton Teams Up with Miley Cyrus, Lainey Wilson, Queen Latifah and Reba McEntire for New Version of a 1977 Hit
- COWGIRL Magazine Dolly Parton Brings Back “Light Of A Clear Blue Morning” With Reba, Lainey, Miley, & Queen Latifah
- The Grand Ole Opry (via Parade) Dolly Parton’s 80th Birthday Gets a Major Opry Celebration—Here’s Who’s Performing
- First Coast News Dolly Parton will not attend 80th birthday celebration at the Opry House
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