"Proudly SA Tribute”: Ndlovu Youth Choir Honour Dolly Parton With African Jolene Cover, SA Impressed
- The Ndlovu Youth Choir released a vibrant African-style cover of Dolly Parton's classic song Jolene as a tribute to the late country legend
- The music video was filmed in a sunlit village setting with dancers in coordinated outfits and a drone shot forming a heart shape
- South Africans and fans around the world were moved by the choir's heartfelt tribute to Dolly Parton
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Source: UGC
The Ndlovu Youth Choir brought their signature African energy to one of country music's most beloved classics. The South African choir released a joyful cover of Dolly Parton's *Jolene* as a tribute to the late legend, and the video quickly captured hearts far beyond Mzansi's borders.
The music video, shared on Facebook on 26 August 2026, was filmed in an open-field setting, in dirt courtyards and modest buildings. The choir dressed in coordinated pink and patterned outfits filled the frame with colour and movement, while a drone shot captured the group forming a heart shape from above. Playful hand-drawn animated doodles were woven into the footage, giving the whole production a warm, community-centred feel.
The choir first recorded their upbeat version of 'Jolene' back in 2020, but this new tribute took on a deeper meaning following Dolly Parton's passing.
A global legend honoured with African flair
The Ndlovu Youth Choir, known for putting a proudly South African stamp on well-known songs, delivered a version that stayed true to the emotion of the original while celebrating it through an African lens. The aerial heart formation in particular struck viewers as a fitting send-off for a woman who was universally adored.
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View the Facebook video below:
Mzansi and the world react
The tribute on their page drew an outpouring of emotion from viewers across the globe:
Sammi Angel wrote:
"Dolly Parton, I am sure she would have loved this tribute. RIP, beautiful lady."
Adele Theron said:
"Wow guys, this is so well done... Makes me proud to be a South African... Dolly would have loved it."
Joaquim Aires Assis Silva commented:
"Beautiful tribute, it moved me to tears. Thank you to the choir. 🫶🇵🇹"
Vicki Pretorius added:
"What an absolutely beautiful, proudly South African tribute to a legend and icon! Well done!"
Heather Griffiths shared:
"Beautiful tribute to her. Was so grateful to be able to see your show yesterday. Great energy, voices and costumes."
Gina Rao noted:
"Even in South Africa, Dolly is celebrated!!"
More Briefly News stories on Dolly Parton
- Fans gathered outside Dolly Parton’s Tennessee home to leave flowers, balloons and heartfelt messages as they mourned the beloved country music icon following her death.
- US President Donald Trump honoured Dolly Parton after her death at 80, praising the country music legend and ordering US flags to be flown at half-staff in her memory.
- Dolly Parton, the beloved country music legend and philanthropist, has died at 80, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in music, film, and charitable work.
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Source: Briefly News
