The undisputed Queen of Country, Dolly Parton, celebrated her 50 years as a Grande Ole Opry member on Saturday night with two sold-out performances at the cherished Nashville venue. Warming up the stage for Dolly’s two 30-minute sets was an enviable list of artists –including Lady Antebellum, Toby Keith, Candi Carpenter and more – who honoured the country legend by performing their own versions of some of her most iconic songs. 

At the press conference preceding the event, Dolly reflected on her fondest memories, connections and inspirations that have come from her 50 years with the Grande Ole Opry, describing it as a “humbling experience.” Watch the full press conference below.

Dolly Parton | Grand Ole Opry 50th Anniversary Press Conference

Recently, Dolly spoke with Billboard about her six-decades of performing at the revered Nashville venue, beginning with a performance when she was just 13 years old that was introduced to the stage by Johnny Cash himself.

“That was always my dream and my daddy loved the Grand Ole Opry, so we’d listen to it back home [with] me dreaming of being on it. The night that I actually became a member 50 years ago was one of the highlights of my whole life because it was a true dream of mine… You never know what’s going to happen to you in your life. You never know if your dreams will come true. And if they do, you wonder how people will remember you when you’re older. I’m older and I’m seeing how people remember me and that makes me feel very humble and I’m just very honoured that I’m still around.”

Amen Dolly – so are we!

Celebrate with This Is Dolly Parton on Spotify:

Listen to the Dolly Parton Essentials on Apple Music: