When Dolly Parton was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, the Zac Brown Band provided the music. Brown called the night "surreal" and "one of those kind of pinch yourself moments."
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"She's so good still," Brown told ABC Audio. "So beautiful, so sweet."
He later said he would be "on call for Dolly" whenever she needed him.
For his latest single, the ballad "Butterfly," however, it was Brown who sought Dolly.
Is "Butterfly" Part of a New Zac Brown Band Album?
Earlier this year, Brown announced on his and the band's socials that they were starting a brand new chapter. Accompanied by a clip of the band's performances over the years, Brown called the next part in his story "the biggest one yet."
Brown followed up that post by announcing 'Love & Fear.' With fantasy novel-inspired artwork, the album is expected to be released on Dec. 5. It will feature "Butterfly" as well as "Let It Run," Brown's collaboration with Snoop Dogg.
You may recall the cover of "Let It Run" featured AI artwork. How do we know? Brown has a big head and six fingers. The blunt that Snoop is inhaling is not only ginormous, but the smoke from it comes from the middle, not the end, of the joint.
Brown will also be playing a residency at Sphere in Las Vegas beginning on Dec. 5, which is also the release date of 'Love & Fear.' While the shows in December are sold out, dates remain for the performances on January 9-10.
Brown Loved Working With Dolly Parton Again
The video for "Butterfly," released on Friday, begins in what appears to be a recording studio. Brown is playing piano while Parton rests her hand on his shoulder. Inspired by his kids, the song features tender lyrics from Brown, though the line about how "night is darkest before the dawn" sounds reminiscent of a certain Florence and the Machine song.
"Getting to record 'Butterfly' with Dolly is a dream come true," said Brown in a statement. "She's always been one of my biggest inspirations, not just as an artist, but as a person. Collaborating with her brought a whole new perspective to the song."
Brown adds, "Together, we were able to capture the power of storytelling, weaving a narrative we hope will deeply resonate with listeners. Her voice brings so much heart and soul to this track, and singing it with her was pure magic. This song was written for my kids for all the challenges life brings."
Listen to the new track below.
Photo via Getty Images
