Fans watching the University of Tennessee Georgia game at Neyland Stadium were in for a special treat from one of East Tennessee’s most prominent icons.
Dolly Parton was in attendance at Saturday’s game as the Vols took on the Bulldogs, and the star even made an appearance down on the field at the end of the first quarter. In true Dolly fashion, she couldn’t let the occasion pass without a song.
Fans watching the game in person or on television saw Parton singing “Rocky Top” on the field with Peyton Manning, backed up by the University of Tennessee Choir and the Pride of the Southland Band.
Afterward, Parton spoke with CBS Sports' Jenny Dell about her experience, and she said there were some technical issues with her performance.
"I couldn't hear because my sound went out and the stadium was so loud," Parton said. "But I was so honored to be here, and I love Peyton, I love the crowd. It's just good to be home."
The Volunteers take on the Bulldogs at Neyland Stadium Saturday afternoon.
The sold out game comes with a surprise performance by Tennessee darling, Dolly Parton.
Parton announced plans to attend the game in a Facebook video Monday.
"I am so excited to join 101,000 of my friends in the best place for college football, Neyland Stadium! I'll see you there!" she said.
Dolly said she had an audio snafu while singing, but rolled with it, happily telling the sold-out crowd, “Well, I couldn’t hear, but I love the song!”
Dolly also said on a TV broadcast how honored she was to be there, adding “It’s just good to be home, always.”
Parton was escorted on and off the field by former Vols great, Peyton Manning. The former Super Bowl-winning QB returns each season to attend games at his alma mater.
Parton will perform at halftime of the Thanksgiving Day game in Dallas between the Cowboys and the Washington Commanders.
Parton, who released a rock album Friday, has a partnership with Tennessee. In September, Parton and the athletic department announced a partnership that included an exclusive Vols edition of Parton's new album "Rockstar" that includes a live version of Parton singing "Rocky Top" and also a co-branded merchandise line.
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