Dolly Parton assembles a legendary collaboration with Reba McEntire, Queen Latifah, Miley Cyrus, and Lainey Wilson for a new version of her classic song “Light of a Clear Blue Morning.” Listen, stream, buy the track, mp3 download
Dolly Parton, the iconic American singer-songwriter and cultural figure, has convened a powerful coalition of voices from across the music spectrum for a definitive new recording of her seminal song “Light of a Clear Blue Morning.” This new version features Country Music Hall of Fame member Reba McEntire, hip-hop pioneer and actress Queen Latifah, global pop star Miley Cyrus, and current country breakout Lainey Wilson. Produced by Parton’s longtime collaborator Kent Wells, the track arrives as a contemporary statement of resilience and unity. The song is released via Parton’s own Butterfly Records.
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Parton first wrote and recorded “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” in the late seventies. The song emerged during a pivotal professional transition, capturing a profound sense of hope and personal liberation. It has since become one of her most enduring and covered anthems, resonating with listeners facing their own periods of darkness. By choosing to revisit this catalog cornerstone with such a distinct group of artists, Parton reframes the song as a collective declaration for the current era. The collaboration bridges generations and genres, creating a rare moment of harmony in the modern music landscape.
dolly parton light of a clear blue morning
Each contributor brings a unique history and authority to the recording. Reba McEntire, a fellow country music legend, has built a career on commanding vocal performances and business acumen that reshaped the industry’s possibilities for women. Queen Latifah, from New Jersey, first revolutionized hip-hop with messages of respect and empowerment before becoming an acclaimed singer and Emmy-winning actress. Miley Cyrus, Parton’s goddaughter, carries her own legacy from child star to a fearless pop innovator known for her rock-influenced power vocals. Lainey Wilson, a Louisiana-born artist, represents the new guard of country music, earning acclaim for her authentic storytelling and modern traditionalist sound.
The production, handled by Kent Wells, avoids overshadowing the vocal tapestry. Wells, who has worked with Parton for decades, understands the original song’s spiritual core. His arrangement likely provides a foundation that is both fresh and respectful, allowing the blend of these five distinct voices to become the central instrument. The decision to include a spoken-word introduction by Parton and Queen Latifah frames the song’s intent directly, positioning it as a conscious response to global uncertainty. This transforms the track from a simple remake into a purposeful musical event.
For the industry, this collaboration demonstrates Parton’s unparalleled ability to connect artists across perceived boundaries. The track is not a passing novelty but a serious reinterpretation of a classic, leveraging the collective cultural weight of its participants. It highlights the song’s timeless message while affirming the ongoing relevance of each artist involved. For fans, it offers a unique opportunity to hear these generational talents share a single studio recording, a convergence that defines the word “event.” This new “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” stands as a significant entry in each artist’s discography and a potential anthem for 2026.
Dolly Parton – Light of a Clear Blue Morning (ft. Lainey Wilson, Miley Cyrus, Queen Latifah, Reba McEntire)
Produced by Kent Wells
January 16, 2026
1 song, 3 minutes
℗ 2026 Butterfly Records
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