Dolly Parton, the iconic country music superstar, is celebrating her upcoming 80th birthday on January 19 with a special early release: a new rendition of her inspiring 1977 song, “Light of a Clear Blue Morning.” This fresh take on the classic track brings together a powerful ensemble of longtime musical colleagues and acclaimed collaborators, including Lainey Wilson, Reba McEntire, Queen Latifah, and Miley Cyrus, Parton’s goddaughter.

The single and accompanying music video elevate the original's uplifting essence, featuring David Foster on piano and The Christ Church Choir contributing background vocals. Penned by Parton herself, the song was produced by Parton and Kent Wells, and expertly mixed by Chris Lord-Alge. The original recording of “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” first appeared on Parton’s 1977 album, New Harvest…First Gathering, and soared to No. 11 on Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart in June 1977.

Reflecting on the song's enduring message, Parton stated, “I wrote ‘Light of a Clear Blue Morning’ during a season when I was searching for hope, and fifty years later that message still feels just as true.” She added, “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.”

Beyond its powerful message of optimism, this project carries a significant charitable component. All net proceeds generated from the song and its video will be dedicated to supporting the pediatric cancer research program at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville, highlighting Parton's commitment to giving back.

Parton shares a rich history of collaboration with each of the featured women. With Miley Cyrus, she has previously worked on “Rainbowland” and a rendition of Cyrus’s “Wrecking Ball.” Lainey Wilson and Parton joined forces for a version of “Mama He’s Crazy” for a Judds tribute record. Parton and Reba McEntire collaborated on “Does He Love You,” a song McEntire originally released with Linda Davis. Furthermore, Parton teamed up with Queen Latifah in the 2012 film Joyful Noise, where they portrayed spirited choir directors.

In addition to her musical endeavors, Parton continues to expand her diverse portfolio. Her 'Songteller Hotel' is currently under development in Nashville, and her multimedia symphonic experience, 'Threads: My Songs in Symphony,' is scheduled to tour more cities across the United States this year. She also recently released the book Star of the Show: My Life on Stage, co-authored with Billboard journalist Tom Roland.