Watch Zac Brown's Moving Tribute To Dolly Parton Before Playing Message Recorded Before Her Death

Zac Brown shared a heartfelt tribute to Dolly Parton before playing a message she recorded before her death.

Brown, 48, posthumously introduced Parton, who delivered a special message for teachers at the CMA Foundation Music Teachers of Excellence. The Country Music Association shared a clip of that moment on Instagram.

"Not long before we lost her, Dolly recorded a special message for the teachers in this room. She took the time to speak directly to you," Brown said. "When I think about legacy, I think about what we create, but even more than that, I think about what we give away. This is how our life continues to reach people long after a moment has passed. A few people understand that better than Dolly Parton. Dolly gave the world extraordinary songs. But her legacy reaches far beyond music. She gave people hope. She believed in children and she used everything she built to create opportunities for others."

Parton appeared on screen and said:

"I've always believed that music brings people together. But none of that happens without dedicated teachers who encourage, inspire and believe in the next generation and that's why we're celebrating tonight. To every music teacher of excellence, I want to thank you for your passion, patience and care that you give your students each day."

Parton "died peacefully" on August 25 in Nashville, Tennessee, according to an official announcement issued at the time. She was 80. Representatives for the beloved country legend later said in a statement to PEOPLE, "after bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones." Parton was laid to rest in a private service for immediate family beside her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean. Dean died in March 2025. He was 82.