Kacey Musgraves performs Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You" at 2026 MTV Video Music Awards in the United States

At the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards in the United States, Kacey Musgraves honored the late Dolly Parton with a stripped-down performance of "I Will Always Love You." The tribute began with archival footage of Parton, then Musgraves sang alone with a piano, wearing a red bodysuit and glamorous makeup. Parton died on August 25, 2026, at age 80. Musgraves had previously paid tribute to Parton in Boston and on social media. The performance was her first VMA appearance in five years.