Country music icon Dolly Parton has revealed plans to release a fresh version of her 1977 hit 'Light of a Clear Blue Morning' featuring several prominent artists. The track, set for release on January 16, will support pediatric cancer research at a Nashville children's hospital. This comes just ahead of Parton's 80th birthday.
Dolly Parton, the legendary country singer approaching her 80th birthday, announced on January 14 a new rendition of her song 'Light of a Clear Blue Morning.' Originally released in 1977 as part of her album New Harvest...First Gathering, the track holds special meaning for Parton. According to her website, she views it as 'her song of deliverance,' symbolizing a musical epiphany where 'when the Lord has set you free ‘Ye are free indeed.’'
The updated version features collaborations with Lainey Wilson, Miley Cyrus—Parton's goddaughter—Queen Latifah, Reba McEntire, David Foster on piano, and the Christ Church Choir providing backing vocals. In an Instagram post, Parton shared the cover art and wrote: 'Coming this Friday. A new rendition of my song “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” featuring @laineywilson, @mileycyrus, @queenlatifah and @reba. Pre-save at the link in bio. Proceeds from this recording and music video will benefit pediatric cancer research at the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville, TN.'
The release is scheduled for Friday, January 16, days before Parton's birthday on the following Monday. All proceeds will aid pediatric cancer research at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville. Lainey Wilson expressed enthusiasm in the comments, stating, 'So excited for y’all to hear this.'
An accompanying music video is also planned, potentially showcasing the collaborators. Parton has prior joint projects with some: a duet 'Does He Love You' with McEntire, co-starring with Latifah in the musical film Joyful Noise, and performing 'Wrecking Ball' with Cyrus. While this marks her first studio collaboration with Wilson, they have worked together on other occasions.
