Dolly Parton Inspires University of Tennessee with Unforgettable Football Game Speech
Dolly Parton electrifies the University of Tennessee's football game, enthralling the crowd with her captivating performance and inspiring speech on Saturday, November 18
Dolly Parton stole the show with her stunning game day outfit, putting us all to shame.
The 77-year-old singer surprised everyone at the University of Tennessee's Saturday football game on November 18th in Knoxville, where they were competing against the University of Georgia. She took the field and delivered an inspiring pep talk to the crowd, dressed in a vibrant orange-and-white ensemble.
Donning a dazzling orange jumpsuit adorned with silver stars along the side, the iconic vocalist effortlessly appeared in style alongside her white motorcycle jacket. Her ensemble flawlessly complemented the team colors of the Volunteers and her Rockstar album. Adding the final touch, a pair of vibrant orange hoop earrings perfectly completed her look. Stepping onto the Neyland Stadium field between the first and second quarter, Dolly Parton was gracefully accompanied by retired NFL star Peyton Manning. Following her inspiring words, she serenaded the crowd with a rendition of the Osborne Brothers' beloved anthem, "Rocky Top."
Many fans, including Bachelor Nation’s Carly Waddell, were shocked and thrilled by Parton’s appearance.
"Dolly Parton, the legendary singer, addressed the crowd during the break between the first and second quarter at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee on November 18, 2023. Waddell, 38, expressed her excitement through an Instagram Story on Sunday, November 19, sharing a close-up video from her seat in the stands. "I've always admired Dolly but had never seen her in person, and you all know how much I adore her. It was an incredible experience. Unfortunately, the enthusiasm was dampened by Tennessee's loss."
The Vols suffered a 38-10 defeat against the Georgia Bulldogs, however, Parton's presence at the game, coinciding with the release of her Rockstar album on November 17, was undoubtedly a standout moment.
"Well, it was an incredible experience, although I couldn't fully hear due to the loudness of the stadium. Nonetheless, I felt immensely honored to be here," Parton enthusiastically shared with CBS Sports sideline reporter Jenny Dell on Saturday. "Being inducted into the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame was such a noteworthy accomplishment, and I felt the need to justify that honor."
Content revised: Parton expressed her joy at being back in her home state of Tennessee, stating, "It feels amazing to be home, always."
Parton's album Rockstar showcased her transition from country to rock music, featuring her covers of numerous iconic songs. The inspiration behind the album stemmed from her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Dolly Parton is escorted by Peyton Manning at Neyland Stadium on November 18, 2023 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Curtis Hilbun/AFF-USA.com/MEGA
Parton expressed that there were other individuals in the rock and roll industry who she believed deserved recognition more than herself. She acknowledged that she didn't fully comprehend the criteria for receiving such recognition, but still maintained that it should be earned. This led her to embark on creating a rock 'n' roll album. She also mentioned that she believes this album showcases some of her finest work, though timing played a crucial role. Dolly Parton often discussed the idea of creating a rock 'n' roll album, but due to her age, she deemed it unlikely. Furthermore, when she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, she initially declined the offer, as she didn't want to accept something she hadn't earned. However, upon further contemplation, she decided that the time was right to pursue this endeavor.
Parton also shared with Apple Music DJ Zane Lowe that her husband of 50 years, Carl Dean, was extremely impressed with Rockstar.
"After playing him the entire album, he gave me the greatest compliment by saying, 'You know, it's pretty good'," she exclaimed. "For anyone else, that would be like saying it's the best they've ever heard or that it's absolutely fantastic. But coming from Carl, for him to simply say 'You know, that's pretty good', means a lot to me."
