Ashley McBryde paid tribute to Dolly Parton with a moving performance of one of the country legend’s most personal songs during a special televised celebration of her life and legacy.

On Wednesday, October 21, McBryde took the stage for CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton, delivering a heartfelt rendition of Coat of Many Colors. As she sang, an image of the original coat made by Parton’s mother appeared on the screen behind her. McBryde ended the performance by placing a hand over her heart in a quiet moment of respect for the late singer.

Parton died at age 80 on August 25, leaving behind a lasting legacy in country music, philanthropy and entertainment. Her work includes countless hit songs, the children’s literacy program Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and Dollywood, the theme park in her hometown of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Yet among her many achievements, Coat of Many Colors remains one of the clearest reflections of her personal story.

Released in 1971 as the title track of Parton’s eighth solo studio album, the song draws from her childhood experiences growing up in a poor family. It tells the story of a coat her mother made from scraps of fabric, which Parton proudly wore despite being mocked by other children.

The song also connects her personal memories with the biblical story of Joseph and his multicolored coat in Genesis 37. Through its simple but powerful message, Parton reminded listeners that love and family are worth far more than material possessions.

In one of its most touching passages, she sings:

“But they didn’t understand it / And I tried to make them see / That one is only poor / Only if they choose to be / Now I know we had no money / But I was rich as I could be / In my coat of many colors / My mama made for me.”

Over the years, the song has grown beyond its original release. Parton adapted the story into a children’s book, and her childhood inspired a 2015 television film titled Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors.

McBryde’s performance brought renewed attention to the story behind the song, reminding viewers of the personal experiences and family values that shaped Parton’s music.

The tribute featured more than 20 artists celebrating different parts of Parton’s career. Carly Pearce and Kristin Chenoweth joined forces for 9 to 5, while the evening concluded with the performers gathering for a group rendition of I Will Always Love You.

For McBryde, honoring Coat of Many Colors meant more than revisiting a country classic. It was a chance to celebrate a song that continues to share Parton’s childhood story and its enduring message about love, dignity and the true meaning of wealth.

Fans who missed the broadcast can watch CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton on Hulu.