More than 100,000 fans turned a Tennessee football game into a heartfelt celebration of Dolly Parton, filling Neyland Stadium with her music and honoring one of the state’s most beloved icons.

University of Tennessee Honors Dolly Parton
The University of Tennessee Volunteers opened their 2026 season at home on Saturday, September 5, against the Furman Paladins — but the game was about more than football.

Throughout the evening, the Vols paid tribute to Dolly Parton, an East Tennessee native whose connection to the university has grown stronger over the years.

The team wore helmet decals featuring Dolly’s name, while a special Dolly Parton karaoke camera encouraged fans to join in with some of her most recognizable songs.

Although Dolly never attended the University of Tennessee, the school has honored her on several occasions.

In 2009, UT Knoxville awarded her an honorary doctorate and invited her to deliver the commencement address.

She also returned to campus several times, including a memorable appearance at Neyland Stadium in 2023, when she performed “Rocky Top” alongside Tennessee football legend Peyton Manning.

A Stadium Full of Dolly Fans

The most emotional moment came when Dolly’s iconic “I Will Always Love You” began playing.

More than 100,000 fans joined together in a mᴀssive stadium singalong, creating a powerful tribute to the singer’s enduring legacy.

The Tennessee marching band, The Pride of the Southland, added another memorable touch by forming Dolly’s name on the field.

And the celebration didn’t end there.

As the game moved toward the fourth quarter, the Volunteers played another Dolly classic, “My Tennessee Mountain Home,” as the stadium song.

For one night, Neyland Stadium became a giant celebration of Dolly Parton — a reminder of just how deeply the Tennessee legend is loved in her home state.