Kelly Clarkson Honors Dolly Parton with a Stunning “I Will Always Love You” Cover in Las Vegas

During her Las Vegas residency, Kelly Clarkson fulfilled a special request from Dolly Parton by performing her iconic song “I Will Always Love You.” Parton herself praised Clarkson, commenting on social media that she delivered one of the best versions she had ever heard, equal in greatness to Whitney Houston’s legendary cover.

Clarkson shared on stage that she chose to perform the song after a personal invitation from Parton, who noted her admiration for Clarkson’s voice. The singer reminisced about a previous tribute performance at the 2022 ACM Awards, where she also sang the song at Parton’s request, describing the experience as nerve-wracking yet memorable.

Expressing her affection for Dolly, Clarkson explained, “When Dolly asks you to sing something, you just do it.” She highlighted her musical influences, including the portrait of Parton hanging backstage among other legends like Bonnie Raitt and Janis Joplin. Clarkson delivered a heartfelt, powerful rendition of “I Will Always Love You,” earning applause from the silent crowd.

The performance took place amidst the opening shows of Clarkson’s ongoing residency at Caesars Palace, which was delayed initially due to vocal rest. This series of “Studio Sessions” is scheduled through November.

Meanwhile, Dolly Parton will also be making her Vegas return in December with a six-show run at Caesars Palace from December 4 to 13, coinciding with the National Finals Rodeo. She expressed excitement about performing again in Las Vegas after many years, promising memorable shows at The Colosseum.

The scheduled dates for Dolly’s residency are December 4, 6, 7, 10, 12, and 13. This marks her first extended performance run in Las Vegas since her early ’90s stint at The Mirage, where she performed close to 50 shows in the early ’90s.