Dolly Parton Surprises Lainey Wilson with Heartwarming Video Message Ahead of Epic Red Kettle Kick-Off Performance
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Country music fans were in for a heartwarming surprise when Lainey Wilson, the 2024 CMA Female Vocalist of the Year, received a special video message from none other than her idol, Dolly Parton. The video, which aired on the Jumbotron during rehearsals for Lainey’s much-anticipated halftime show at the Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants game at AT&T Stadium this Thanksgiving, left Lainey—along with the audience—beaming with joy.
The surprise came just before Lainey was set to perform the official Red Kettle Kick-Off show, marking the start of The Salvation Army’s annual holiday fundraising campaign. In the video, Dolly, who performed the same iconic role during last year’s kick-off, began by congratulating Lainey in the sweetest way possible.
“Well, hey everybody, it’s Dolly, and I wanted to take a moment and congratulate my dear friend, Lainey,” Dolly said, with her signature warmth and charm. “As a travelling musician, you spend an awful lot of time on life’s highways. So it’s a true honour to have one of them named after you—especially one in your hometown, ‘The Lainey Wilson Highway’. Got a nice ring to it, don’t it?”
The announcement of the newly renamed Highway 15 in Lainey’s hometown of Baskin, Louisiana, had been a significant milestone for the rising star. Dolly’s message added another layer of personal touch, especially since Dolly had been a key influence on Lainey’s musical journey.
As the video continued, Dolly shared her excitement for Lainey’s upcoming performance, “A little birdie told me that you were going to be doing the halftime show for the Dallas Cowboys this year. Well, I’m excited to pass the Salvation Army bell to you as this year’s Red Kettle Kick-Off halftime performer.”
The legendary country singer, who was recently named Billboard’s greatest country artist of all time, ended the message with her signature encouragement: “Hey, I’m really proud of you for using your incredible talents to help those in need, and as your biggest cheerleader—Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, that is—we can’t wait to watch you light up that stage on Thanksgiving. So good luck, and I will be cheering you on!”
Last year, Dolly’s performance for the Red Kettle Kick-Off was a standout moment, featuring a medley of her iconic hits like “9 to 5” and “Jolene,” as well as rock-infused covers of Queen’s “We Are The Champions” and “We Will Rock You.” Fans are eagerly speculating what Lainey’s set will bring. With her new album Whirlwind recently released, it’s likely that tracks like “4X4XU” and “Hang Tight Honey” will make an appearance, as fans continue to be swept up by her raw talent and magnetic stage presence.
As country music continues to surge in popularity, the demand for more country artists at major events like the Super Bowl halftime show has only grown. Lainey Wilson, with her undeniable charisma and influence, would undoubtedly be a dream performer for the biggest stage in sports. This Thanksgiving performance could be a glimpse of why Lainey’s place in future Super Bowl halftime shows is more than deserved—especially if it means bringing together a star-studded collaborative performance with country music’s finest.
As for the Red Kettle campaign, it’s a cause close to both Dolly and Lainey’s hearts. The Salvation Army’s holiday fundraising efforts provide essential services to those in need, including toys for children, food for the hungry, and shelter for the homeless. Fans who want to contribute can make donations to the Red Kettle campaign, knowing that their generosity will help those struggling during the festive season.
With Dolly’s loving words of encouragement and Lainey’s incredible talent, this Red Kettle Kick-Off is sure to be a performance to remember. Fans will be watching closely, eagerly awaiting the magic Lainey will create on the stage, just as Dolly did before her.
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