Kacey Musgraves will return to the MTV Video Music Awards stage on September 27 for a special performance honoring Dolly Parton. The tribute was announced as part of the ceremony’s expanding lineup of performances celebrating major figures in music.
Organizers confirmed that Musgraves will perform during the 2026 VMAs, marking her first appearance on the show’s stage in five years. She last performed at the ceremony in 2021 with Star-Crossed and is nominated this year for Best Country with Dry Spell.
The tribute comes after Parton died on August 25 at age 80. Musgraves has already honored the country music icon during recent tour stops, performing songs including Here You Come Again and 9 to 5.
This year’s VMAs will also recognize other influential artists. RAYE, Sombr and Teddy Swims are scheduled to perform a tribute to George Michael, while Nirvana will receive the Video Vanguard Award.
Snoop Dogg will host the 2026 ceremony, with Madonna, Lisa, Shaboozey, and other artists also scheduled to perform.
