When three of country music’s most beloved voices step onto the same stage, magic is bound to happen — and at the 2019 Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, that’s exactly what unfolded. The night began not with a whisper but with a resounding celebration of country heritage, female empowerment, and vocal excellence as Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, and Carrie Underwood came together for an unforgettable performance that set the tone for a history-making evening.
The trio, all icons in their own right, delivered a soul-stirring rendition of “Those Memories of You,” a song rich with emotion, nostalgia, and timeless harmony. Their voices — each distinct, yet perfectly complementary — echoed across the venue, igniting the show with energy and elegance.
Three Powerhouses, One Legendary Moment
The CMA Awards have always been a stage for unforgettable moments, but the 2019 opening performance was one for the books. With Reba McEntire, longtime “Voice” coach and multiple award-winning artist; Carrie Underwood, a powerhouse vocalist and former host of the CMAs; and the legendary Dolly Parton, one of the most recognized names in global music history, taking the stage together, fans knew they were witnessing something extraordinary.
Their performance of “Those Memories of You” wasn’t just a tribute to country music’s roots — it was a powerful display of musical unity and respect across generations. The three artists harmonized with heart and precision, captivating the crowd and setting a high bar for the evening’s festivities.
A Tribute to Country Women — and Country History
Following the trio’s performance, the celebration of female talent in country music continued with a powerful medley featuring other beloved artists. The spotlight expanded to include Martina McBride, Jennifer Nettles, and Tanya Tucker, who joined in on stage to honor the influential women of country music. Their collaborative performance highlighted both legacy hits and modern classics, drawing enthusiastic applause and emotional reactions from the audience.
The 2019 CMAs were widely seen as a tribute to the “Women of Country,” a much-needed celebration in an industry often dominated by male voices. From the performances to the hosting lineup, the show underscored the importance of diversity and the rich contributions women have made to the genre over the decades.
Behind the Song: “Those Memories of You”
The centerpiece of the opening performance, “Those Memories of You,” carries its own notable legacy. While the song gained major recognition from the 1987 album Trio, recorded by Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, and Emmylou Harris, it was originally written by Alan O’Bryant and first recorded by bluegrass pioneer Bill Monroe.
The song is a haunting ballad that explores the emotional aftermath of lost love — a universal theme that resonates across eras and audiences. The lyrics paint a portrait of someone struggling to move on, with memories that linger like shadows. Through each vocal interpretation over the years, the song has continued to strike a chord, and the 2019 CMA rendition was no exception.
For Parton, McEntire, and Underwood to open the show with this song wasn’t just a musical choice — it was a statement. It connected the past to the present, honoring the deep roots of the genre while showcasing how those traditions continue to thrive in the hands of today’s artists.
A Lighthearted and Powerful Monologue
Before their performance, the trio took the stage for a brief but impactful opening monologue. With humor and heart, they welcomed viewers, acknowledged their co-hosting duties, and celebrated the year’s most outstanding performers — including Keith Urban, who was seen smiling in the audience alongside his wife, actress Nicole Kidman.
Longtime CMA viewers were especially delighted to see this dynamic hosting lineup. From 2008 to 2018, Carrie Underwood had co-hosted the awards alongside Brad Paisley, forming a beloved duo known for their comedic timing and on-stage chemistry. In 2019, the torch was passed as Underwood joined forces with McEntire and Parton, marking a new chapter in the show’s evolution.
Their monologue blended lighthearted jokes with sincere nods to the artists in attendance, setting the perfect mood for a night of music, memories, and moments that would be talked about for years to come.
Carrie, Dolly, and Reba: A New Generation of Country Unity
While each artist on stage brought her own unique legacy, the harmony between them reflected something deeper — a shared commitment to honoring country music’s roots while embracing its future.
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Carrie Underwood, a former American Idol winner turned country superstar, has built a reputation as one of the genre’s most versatile and powerful voices. She has hosted the CMAs multiple times and consistently advocates for more representation for women in country music.
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Reba McEntire, known not only for her chart-topping hits but also for her work on television and Broadway, remains a pillar of country music with a career that spans over four decades.
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Dolly Parton, with her unmatched songwriting, business acumen, and philanthropic work, is widely considered a global icon. She continues to inspire artists across all genres, proving that talent, humility, and heart never go out of style.
Together, their performance was more than just a musical collaboration — it was a testament to what’s possible when generations come together in harmony.
The Legacy of the Trio Album
It’s worth noting the deep historical significance of the song “Those Memories of You.” When Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, and Emmylou Harris released the Trio album in 1987, it became an instant classic. The project was celebrated for its seamless harmonies, emotional depth, and elegant fusion of country, folk, and bluegrass influences.
The success of Trio paved the way for more collaborative albums in country music and helped shine a brighter spotlight on female artists in the genre. The album earned multiple Grammy nominations and left a lasting imprint on music history.
By opening the 2019 CMAs with a song from this legendary project, Parton, McEntire, and Underwood reminded audiences of the timeless power of music — and how the bonds between women in the industry can lead to truly magical moments.
Final Thoughts: A Night to Remember
The 2019 Country Music Association Awards opened with a performance that wasn’t just musically stunning — it was emotionally resonant, culturally significant, and refreshingly unifying. The blend of legendary voices and heartfelt storytelling reminded viewers of why country music holds such a special place in the hearts of millions.
From honoring classic hits to spotlighting rising stars, the CMAs once again proved their ability to evolve while staying grounded in the rich traditions of the genre. And thanks to artists like Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, and Dolly Parton, the future of country music continues to look bright, inclusive, and incredibly inspiring.
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