U2 and Dolly Parton are bringing a country twist to their collaboration “Torn,” with a new version of the song set to receive a special radio premiere ahead of the release of the Irish rock band’s upcoming album, Carnaval De Luz. Titled “Torn (Kent Wells Version),” the reworked track will debut Thursday, Nov. 12, through major country radio networks and platforms.
The original recording features U2 frontman Bono alongside Parton and serves as the closing track on the band’s 16th studio album, scheduled to arrive Nov. 13 through Island Records. Written by U2, Parton and Snow Patrol’s Johnny McDaid, the recording features production by Jacknife Lee, with Daniel Lanois contributing pedal steel guitar. Country producer Kent Wells co-produced the alternate version, while Big Machine Records will oversee its promotion and distribution to country radio.
The song came together after Bono initially approached Parton about another musical project inspired by Irish folk music. When she declined the material, she instead offered him “Torn,” giving U2 the opportunity to reshape the song alongside McDaid. The resulting collaboration brings together the band’s rock influences and Parton’s country roots, creating a fitting final recorded appearance for one of country music’s most celebrated performers.
The collaboration also carries special significance as “Torn” features Parton’s final recorded vocal performance. She recorded her contribution in Nashville in June, approximately two months before her death on Aug. 25 at age 80. Parton had been able to hear and approve the finished recording before her passing. Bono previously revealed that she had continued working on the song despite being seriously ill, making the collaboration particularly meaningful for the band.
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