Sevier County High School Band Honors Dolly Parton with Tribute Performance
The Sevier County High School marching band will play three Dolly Parton arrangements at a halftime show, celebrating the late singer’s support for youth music.
Nathan Hickman, director of the Sevier County High School marching band, recounted how Dolly Parton once pretended to know him during a 2013 Dollywood concert, turning the moment into a memorable welcome onstage. He noted that the singer frequently visited the band, praised the students, and contributed financially to the program, as well as anonymously supporting numerous predominantly Black school districts across the South.
In tribute, the band maintains three of Parton’s songs—“9 to 5,” “Islands in the Stream,” and “I Will Always Love You”—in its permanent setlist. On Sept. 11, the ensemble will perform “I Will Always Love You” with Jefferson County High School and former members during a halftime show. The tribute underscores Parton’s lasting impact on music education after her death in Nashville from cancer at age 80. Hickman emphasized that the band’s current success is largely due to her generosity.
Why it matters
It highlights how a celebrated artist’s philanthropy continues to shape youth music programs after her passing.
How this story developed
- Aug 25 Country Icon Dolly Parton Passes Away at Age 80
- Aug 25 Country music legend Dolly Parton died at age 80 following a series of long-term medical problems that included endometriosis, depression, back pain and recent kidney and autoimmune issues.
- Aug 26 A wave of public tributes from musicians and entertainers has been shared since the announcement.
- Aug 26 Family members publicly announced her death following a brief illness.
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