Dolly Parton CMA TV Tribute: Watch the Special Live for Free — Where to Stream

She’ll always hold a special place in our hearts.

Just two months after her passing at 80, the Country Music Association is commemorating Dolly Parton with a televised tribute special.

“I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton” is set to broadcast tonight, Oct. 21, on ABC. The program was recorded live before an audience at Belmont University in Nashville.

Artists spanning multiple generations and musical styles will perform in honor of the Country Music Hall of Famer. Among those participating are longtime friend Reba McEntire, “Choosin’ Texas” singer Ella Langley and Carrie Underwood.

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Alongside the headline performers, a student ensemble from Belmont University will take part in the show, reflecting the school’s ongoing “Dolly U” initiatives that involve students in campus programming.

When does the CMA Dolly Parton tribute air?

The CMA tribute to Dolly Parton airs tonight, Oct. 21, at 9 p.m. ET.

Ways to stream the CMA Dolly Parton tribute live

If you don’t have a cable subscription, you’ll need a live TV streaming service to watch “I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton” without charge.

We recommend DIRECTV for trying live TV at no cost. Currently, you can sign up for a five-day free trial and also get $30 off your first month. The Choice package is a good pick because it carries ABC within its lineup of 125+ channels.

You can also access live ABC with DIRECTV’s MyEntertainment genre pack ($42.99/month). Plus, the bundle includes Hulu, so if you miss the live airing you can catch the special there when it starts streaming the following day.

Who’s performing on the Dolly Parton tribute?

The tribute lineup features Ashley McBryde, Béla Fleck, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, Carrie Underwood, Darius Rucker, Ella Langley, Kelsea Ballerini, Kristen Bell, Kristin Chenoweth, Lady A, Lainey Wilson, Little Big Town, Lukas Nelson, Molly Tuttle, Reba McEntire, Ricky Skaggs, Sierra Hull, Vince Gill and Zac Brown.

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Amy Grant and Kimberly Williams-Paisley will appear as special guests.

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