Kelly Clarkson pays heartfelt tribute to Dolly Parton at 2022 ACM awards

American singer Kelly Clarkson delivered a heartfelt performance on the iconic track I will always love you in honor of country legend Dolly Parton at the 57th Academy of Country Music Awards, held on Monday.

The Because of You crooner took to the stage at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, and paid tribute to Parton. After her performance, she greeted the iconic singer on stage and the audience gave her standing ovation.

After Clarkson’s performance, Parton, 76, said, “I know that Whitney is smiling down tonight.” Remembering singer Whitney Houston, she continued, "I was backstage trying not to cry my false eyelashes off — slinging snot in every direction and tears."

"But anyway, that was an amazing job!" said Parton. She also took the stage for a performance of Big Dreams and Faded Jeans with Kelsea Ballerini from her upcoming album Run, Rose, Run.