Country music legend Dolly Parton has been named a recipient of the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award for 2026. The award will be conferred during the annual Americana Honors & Awards ceremony scheduled for Sept. 16 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee, as part of the broader AMERICANAFEST event. Parton, who has limited public appearances in recent months, will accept the honor via a pre-recorded video presentation.
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes figures whose artistic contributions have left a lasting impact on the tapestry of American roots music. “We at the Americana Music Association have long admired Ms. Parton’s work as a singer, songwriter, entertainer and one of the greatest ambassador’s music has ever known,” said Jed Hilly, Executive Director of the Americana Music Association. “With all of her extraordinary accomplishments—from philanthropy to television, film and business—our desire is to honor Dolly for what has always been at the heart of her legacy: a definitive songwriter and artist whose songs have shaped generations.”
Parton’s extensive body of work—which includes iconic titles such as “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” “I Will Always Love You,” and “My Tennessee Mountain Home”—draws heavily from her East Tennessee upbringing. By fusing Appalachian traditions with elements of bluegrass, folk, gospel, and pop, her songwriting has bridged diverse musical genres and influenced generations of creators.
Former Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant will also be recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s ceremony. Parton joins a roster of legendary prior honorees that includes Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris, Van Morrison, and Elvis Costello. The recognition comes alongside additional honors for Parton this season, including the ACM Poet’s Award at the upcoming ACM Honors.
Tickets are on sale now for the ceremony, which will be held on Sept. 17 at Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee.
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