Kesha Honors Dolly Parton With Emotional Tribute

Singer Kesha paid homage to Dolly Parton during her Pittsburgh concert at the Pavilion at Star Lake, performing a heartfelt cover of Old Flames (Can’t Hold a Candle to You) — a song with deep personal ties to her family.

A Song With Family Roots

• Originally written in 1978 by Joe Sun, the track was co‑written by Kesha’s mother, Pebe Sebert.
• Dolly Parton popularized the song in 1980, turning it into one of her signature hits.
• Kesha told the audience: “That song bought us a house, like a roof. That song put me through school.”

Dolly and Kesha’s Collaboration

In 2017, Parton joined Kesha for a duet of Old Flames on her album Rainbow, recorded during Kesha’s legal battle with producer Dr. Luke. Kesha recalled: “Having such a legendary woman do this song with me and stand beside me, it made me really feel like God was on my side.”

Remembering Dolly’s Impact

Kesha described Parton as a “guiding light” throughout her life:

• “Dolly didn’t seem like a real human to me… she was this fable, like untouchable, unhuman, just badass.”
• She added that she made a rule never to release music Dolly wouldn’t enjoy: “She’s so much of a guiding light, and she has no idea.”

Parton herself once said Old Flames was “one of my favorite songs that I ever did,” and she was eager to record it with Kesha because of the songwriter connection.

✨ Kesha’s tribute underscores how Dolly’s artistry transcended generations, inspiring not only fans but fellow musicians who saw her as a mentor, collaborator, and symbol of resilience.

Source: Compiled from various sources