Brad Paisley delivered one of the most emotional moments of the CMA’s Dolly Parton tribute special when he joined bluegrass musician Sierra Hull for a heartfelt performance of “When I Get Where I’m Going.” After sharing a personal message honoring the country music legend, Paisley appeared visibly moved as he performed the song, reportedly pausing briefly at several moments before continuing.
The performance was part of CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton, a two-hour television event bringing together country music stars and entertainment personalities to honor the beloved singer’s extraordinary life and musical legacy.
For Paisley, the song carried an especially meaningful connection to Parton. Originally released in 2005 as a duet between Paisley and Dolly, “When I Get Where I’m Going” became one of the most memorable collaborations of his career and a beloved recording among country music listeners.
The song appeared on Paisley’s album Time Well Wasted and quickly connected with audiences through its deeply personal message. Rather than focusing on ordinary heartbreak or romantic relationships, the lyrics explore faith, the hope of heaven, and the comfort of believing that loved ones will someday be reunited.
Dolly’s contribution to the original recording gave the song an unmistakable emotional quality. Her distinctive voice complemented Paisley’s delivery, creating a powerful musical partnership that helped make the recording a lasting favorite at memorials and other meaningful occasions.
That history made Paisley’s decision to revisit the song during the tribute particularly poignant. Unlike artists performing songs they had admired from a distance, Paisley was returning to a recording he had personally shared with Parton, adding a layer of friendship and musical history to the moment.
Before beginning the performance, Paisley reportedly addressed Dolly with an emotional message. The tribute set a reflective tone for the song that followed, emphasizing the admiration and personal connection that had developed between the two entertainers over the years.
As the familiar melody began, Sierra Hull joined Paisley, bringing her remarkable bluegrass musicianship to the arrangement. Hull, an acclaimed mandolin player and vocalist, added a distinctive musical presence that complemented the song’s country roots and reflective atmosphere.
Throughout the performance, Paisley appeared to struggle with his emotions. At several points, he reportedly paused briefly before continuing, with tears visible in his eyes as he worked through the song’s deeply meaningful lyrics.
Those pauses became part of what made the tribute so memorable. Rather than diminishing the performance, the emotional moments emphasized the personal significance of singing a song once recorded alongside the very artist being honored.
Hull’s participation added another meaningful connection to Parton’s legacy. Dolly’s influence extended deeply into bluegrass and traditional Appalachian music, and Hull represents a younger generation of musicians carrying those musical traditions forward.
The performance also highlighted the enduring power of “When I Get Where I’m Going.” Nearly two decades after its release, the song continues to resonate with listeners because of its message of hope, remembrance, and faith, themes that took on additional meaning during an evening dedicated to celebrating Parton’s life.
Brad Paisley and Sierra Hull’s emotional rendition became a touching reminder of the musical friendships Dolly Parton built throughout her extraordinary career. With Paisley visibly moved and the song’s message carrying special significance, the performance honored not only Dolly’s remarkable voice but also the lasting connections, memories, and inspiration she left behind.
