Ahead of her highly anticipated half-time performance at the Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants game on Thanksgiving, Lainey Wilson received a surprise message from one of her biggest idols—country music legend Dolly Parton.
The heartfelt moment occurred during Lainey’s rehearsals for the event, which marks the official launch of The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign. As Wilson practiced for the show, a video from Dolly Parton appeared on the AT&T Stadium Jumbotron, sending a warm congratulatory message to the rising country star.
“Well, hey everybody, it’s Dolly, and I wanted to take a moment and congratulate my dear friend, Lainey,” Parton began. “As a traveling musician, you spend a lot of time on life’s highways, so it’s a true honor to have one named after you—especially in your hometown. ‘The Lainey Wilson Highway’—that’s got a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?”
Parton, who was last year’s Red Kettle Kick-Off performer, then passed the symbolic Salvation Army bell to Wilson, wishing her well for the Thanksgiving Day performance. “A little birdie told me you’re going to be doing the half-time show for the Dallas Cowboys this year. I’m excited to pass the bell to you and can’t wait to watch you light up that stage on Thanksgiving,” Dolly said. “I’m really proud of you for using your incredible talents to help those in need, and as your biggest cheerleader—Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, that is—I’ll be cheering you on!”
Last year, Parton wowed the crowd with a powerful medley of hits, including “9 to 5” and “Jolene,” followed by rock-inspired renditions of Queen’s “We Are The Champions” and “We Will Rock You.” While it remains to be seen which songs Lainey Wilson will perform, fans are hoping for tracks from her newly released album Whirlwind, such as “4X4XU” and “Hang Tight Honey.”
As country music continues to soar in popularity, there’s growing excitement for the genre’s inclusion in major events like the Super Bowl half-time show. Lainey Wilson’s performance could serve as a preview of why she—along with other country stars—could be a perfect fit for such a stage in the future.
The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign plays a crucial role in supporting those in need during the holiday season, providing food, toys, and essential supplies to children and families facing hardship. Donations can be made to the campaign online.
Related Topics
Carrie Underwood Steals the Show
