Dolly Parton Releases New Rendition of 1977 Song with Guests

Country music legend Dolly Parton released a new rendition of her 1977 classic "Light of a Clear Blue Morning" on Friday, ahead of her 80th birthday on January 19. The uplifting track features vocals from Miley Cyrus, Lainey Wilson, Queen Latifah and Reba McEntire, along with backing from the Christ Church Choir and piano by David Foster.

Parton, who turns 80 on Monday, described the collaboration as a way to revisit the song's message of hope during challenging times. "I wrote 'Light of a Clear Blue Morning' during a season when I was searching for hope, and 50 years later that message still feels just as true," she said in a statement. "As I celebrate my 80th birthday, this new version is my way of using what I've been blessed with to shine a little light forward, especially by sharing it with some truly incredible women." In an Instagram video, she added that she composed the original in 1976 while grappling with personal and professional transitions, including her decision to end her partnership with Porter Wagoner. Driving home after leaving his office, she watched clouds part to reveal sunlight, inspiring the lyrics about emerging from darkness.