Kacey Musgraves to Honor Dolly Parton at 2026 VMAs
At the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, country star Kacey Musgraves will honor the late Dolly Parton with a special performance. The tribute follows Parton’s recent passing and highlights Musgraves’ history of celebrating the icon on major award stages. The VMAs will also feature other memorials and a…
By Felo News Desk · Published
On September 27, 2026, the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) will showcase a heartfelt tribute to Dolly Parton, performed by country singer Kacey Musgraves. The event, broadcast on CBS and MTV and streamed on Paramount+, will be hosted by Snoop Dogg and will feature a lineup that includes Madonna, Raye, Sombr, Teddy Swims, and several emerging artists.
Musgraves’ Tribute to a Legend
Kacey Musgraves, who has been nominated this year for Best Country for her single “Dry Spell,” will step onto the stage to pay homage to her late friend and fellow country icon Dolly Parton, who died on August 25 at the age of 80. The performance marks Musgraves’ first VMA appearance in five years, following her 2021 rendition of the title track from her album Star‑Crossed. Musgraves has a long history of celebrating Parton at major award shows, including a 2016 CMA Awards tribute and a 2019 Grammy performance where she sang “Here You Come Again.”
During her recent tour, Musgraves dedicated her Boston and New York concerts to Parton, performing both “Here You Come Again” and “9 to 5.” She expressed her grief publicly on social media, noting the loss of a “matriarch” and the impact it has on the music community.
Context: Parton’s Legacy and the VMAs
Dolly Parton, known for her crossover success and philanthropic work, has never been a VMA nominee. The MTV awards traditionally focused on pop and hip‑hop, with country music only gaining a dedicated category in 2025. Parton’s influence, however, has permeated every genre, and her passing has prompted a wave of tributes across the entertainment industry.
The 2026 VMAs will also feature a tribute to George Michael, performed by Raye, Sombr, and Teddy Swims, and a Video Vanguard Award presentation honoring Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain. These memorials underscore the ceremony’s role as a platform for honoring late artists who shaped music history.
Event Details and Production
The ceremony will take place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, part of the L.A. Live complex. It will run from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Eastern Time, with a simulcast on MTV and a Paramount+ stream available in the U.S. and globally the following day. Production is led by Gunpowder & Sky, with Van Toffler as producer and Snoop Dogg serving as executive producer and host.
In addition to the tribute acts, the lineup includes Madonna opening the show, Gener8ion, Yung Lean, Lisa, Shaboozey, Gunna, and Sienna Spiro. The VMAs are known for blending established stars with up‑and‑coming talent, and the 2026 edition is no exception.
What Happens Next?
While the tribute to Parton is set for the opening segment, the rest of the night will feature a mix of performances, award presentations, and surprise moments. The VMAs typically reveal additional performers and presenters in the days leading up to the broadcast, so fans can expect more announcements as the date approaches.
For Kacey Musgraves, the tribute marks a significant moment in her career, reconnecting her with the VMA audience after a five‑year absence. It also highlights the enduring influence of Dolly Parton across generations of musicians.
Key facts
- Kacey Musgraves to honor Dolly Parton at 2026 VMAs
- First VMA appearance in five years
- Parton’s legacy celebrated across award shows
- George Michael and Kurt Cobain also honored
- Madonna opens the show
- Event hosted by Snoop Dogg
- Broadcast on CBS, MTV, Paramount+
Why it matters
The tribute highlights the music community’s respect for Dolly Parton and showcases how contemporary artists like Kacey Musgraves honor their influences, keeping their legacies alive for new audiences.
Frequently asked questions
When will the VMAs air?
The ceremony will broadcast on September 27, 2026, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. ET.
Where will the VMAs be held?
The event will take place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
Who else will perform at the VMAs?
Madonna, Raye, Sombr, Teddy Swims, Gener8ion, Yung Lean, Lisa, Shaboozey, Gunna, and Sienna Spiro are among the confirmed performers.
Will the tribute be live?
Yes, Kacey Musgraves’ tribute to Dolly Parton will be performed live during the broadcast.
How can I watch the VMAs?
The show will air on CBS and MTV and stream on Paramount+ in the U.S., with global availability the next day.
