Country music legend Dolly Parton has recorded a poignant version of Tom Petty’s 1985 hit “Southern Accents” for the forthcoming tribute album “Petty Country,” set to be released on June 21. Parton recently shared her deep connection to the song and her admiration for Petty in a video posted on her social media platforms. In the video, she expresses her lifelong affection for the rock icon and discusses the emotional depth of her latest music video, which features a rich array of Petty’s personal items.
The video for “Southern Accents” showcases Parton surrounded by Petty’s memorabilia, including his famous Rickenbacker guitar, stage-worn jackets, and handwritten lyrics, creating a deeply personal atmosphere. “When I came in [for the video shoot], I didn’t know that we were going to have all of his real things,” Parton revealed. The setting not only pays homage to Petty’s legacy but also offers Parton a symbolic way to connect with him posthumously.
Film clips of Petty’s life, from childhood to his years as a father, play in the background, adding a poignant layer to the tribute. “It’s just been very moving and very touching to me … just to feel him. It’s almost like I’m in his house somehow,” Parton commented.
Through her performance, Parton not only celebrates Petty’s influence but also brings her own Southern roots to the forefront, making the song a heartfelt ode from one musical titan to another.
—
Photo Credit: Bart Sherkow / Shutterstock.com