Dolly Parton Teams With Miley Cyrus, Reba McEntire, Queen Latifah & Lainey Wilson for 80th-Birthday Version of Light of a Clear BlueMorning

Published: Friday, January 16, 2026 at 5:04 am

Dolly Parton Celebrates 80th Birthday with Star-Studded "Light of a Clear Blue Morning"

Music icon Dolly Parton is marking her upcoming 80th birthday with a special release of her classic song, "Light of a Clear Blue Morning." The new version features a collaboration with several prominent female artists: Lainey Wilson, Reba McEntire, Queen Latifah, and Miley Cyrus. The single and accompanying music video aim to amplify the original's message of hope and optimism.

The song, originally released in 1977 on Parton's album *New Harvest...First Gathering*, reached number 11 on Billboard's Hot Country Singles chart. Parton wrote the song during a period of seeking hope, and she emphasizes that the message remains relevant today. The new rendition features David Foster on piano and The Christ Church Choir on background vocals. The song was produced by Parton and Kent Wells, and mixed by Chris Lord-Alge.

This collaboration highlights Parton's history of working with each of the featured artists. Miley Cyrus is Parton's goddaughter, and the two have previously collaborated. Parton and Wilson teamed up for a Judds tribute, while Parton and McEntire have previously recorded together. Parton and Queen Latifah also worked together on the 2012 film *Joyful Noise*.

Proceeds from the song and its video will support the pediatric cancer research program at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville.

BNN's Perspective: This collaboration is a heartwarming gesture from a beloved artist. It's encouraging to see Parton using her platform to spread positivity and support a worthy cause. The choice of collaborators reflects Parton's ability to bridge musical genres and generations, creating a project that is both nostalgic and forward-looking.

Keywords: Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus, Reba McEntire, Queen Latifah, Lainey Wilson, Light of a Clear Blue Morning, music, collaboration, birthday, country music, pop music, pediatric cancer research, David Foster, Kent Wells, Chris Lord-Alge, New Harvest...First Gathering, Billboard Hot Country Singles.

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