Dolly Parton will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Americana Honours & Awards, recognising her decades-long contribution to American roots music as a songwriter and recording artist.
The Americana Music Association announced the honour ahead of the awards ceremony in Nashville, where Parton will accept the award via video.
Americana Music Association honours Dolly Parton
The Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates artists whose careers have had a lasting impact on American roots music. The Americana Music Association said Parton‘s songwriting and influence made her a natural choice for the honour.
Jed Hilly, Executive Director of the Americana Music Association, praised Parton’s legacy in music and beyond.
“We at the Americana Music Association have long admired Ms Parton’s work as a singer, songwriter, entertainer and one of the greatest ambassadors music has ever known.”
“With all of her extraordinary accomplishments, from philanthropy to television, film and business, our desire is to honour Dolly for what has always been at the heart of her legacy: a definitive songwriter and artist whose songs have shaped generations.”
An award recognising a lasting musical legacy
The Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to individuals whose careers have left a lasting mark on American roots music.
Previous recipients include Buddy Guy, Emmylou Harris, Van Morrison, Bonnie Raitt and Willie Nelson.
Parton’s catalogue spans more than six decades and includes classics such as Jolene, I Will Always Love You, Coat of Many Colours and 9 to 5, songs that have influenced generations of artists across country, folk, pop and Americana.
Dolly Parton to accept award by video
The 2026 Americana Honours & Awards will take place in Nashville, with Parton expected to accept the award via a pre-recorded video appearance.
The decision follows a quieter period for the singer, who has reduced her public appearances in recent months.
Recent months have brought personal and health challenges
Parton has stepped back from live performances while dealing with ongoing health issues. She also cancelled her planned Las Vegas residency last year.
Away from music, she has continued to mourn the loss of her husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025 after nearly 60 years of marriage.
Although Parton has scaled back her touring commitments, she remains one of the most influential figures in American music, with a songwriting career that continues to inspire artists across multiple genres.
