Dolly Parton delivered one of the year’s most emotional performances as she debuted a heartfelt new ballad, “If You Hadn’t Been There,” dedicated to her late husband, Carl Dean.

Joined by Adam Lambert, Dolly took the stage with visible emotion, calling Carl “my home, my calm in every storm,” and described the song as “everything I never got to say.”

Lambert, honored to sing with her, added haunting harmonies that deepened the tribute.

The song’s lyrics spoke of quiet devotion and a lifetime of love shared away from the spotlight. As the final notes faded, Dolly looked upward and whispered, “Thank you for loving me, Carl.”

The audience responded with a powerful standing ovation, moved by the raw, tender moment that highlighted music’s power to honor love and carry grief with grace