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Country Throwback: Dolly Parton Joins Oak Ridge Boys for ‘Elvira’ Performance in 1987

Dolly Parton has a long list of resume-worthy moments in her longstanding career as a public icon.

Beyond her widely-successful career as a country artist, she has been an author, a businesswoman, a humanitarian, an actress, a podcast host, and really, just an overall icon.

Oak Ridge Boys and Dolly Parton

In 1987, Parton was also a variety show host. She had her own show called “Dolly” on ABC. The show would feature popular country artists and celebrities in the ’80s such as Tammy Wynette, Merle Haggard, Bruce Willis, Tom Petty, Dudley Moore, and Oprah Winfrey.

Similar to other shows of its nature, it had music, comedy skits, and guest star interviews. It had poor ratings, however, so it only lasted about a year.

One of the key guests on the show were the Oak Ridge Boys. They were on the November 8, 1987, show. The American country and gospel group consists of Duane Allen, Joe Bonsall, William Lee Golden, Richard Sterban. One of their most popular hits was the song “Elvira,” which Parton requested they sing a snippet of on the show.

While the group has performed their highly recognizable song a number of times, this time Dolly Parton got to join in on the fun.

During the line of the song that goes, “oom poppa omm poppa mow mow,” Parton lip-synched. This made it look like the high-pitched singer was singing in an incredibly low pitch.

Amazing Dolly Duets

Besides teaming up with the Oak Ridge Boys for one of the most popular country songs ever, Dolly Parton has been a part of other landmark duets.

For example, she once sang with Kenny Rodgers for the song “Islands in the Stream.” This was a No.1 song on pop, country, and adult contemporary charts in the U.S. It is at the No.1 spot on CMT’s Best Country Duets of All Time.

It’s all for a good reason, too. This catchy, memorable tune would make for a classic hit. The two are also known for being remarkably close friends.


As many people know, Dolly Parton is Miley Cyrus’ godmother. She takes the role quite seriously and both have spoken on the family-like bond they have. The duo has paired up a lot over the years. One of the most notable moments was for the song “Jolene.”

Miley Cyrus’ pop, rock, and country influences compliment the song remarkably well. It is a song Cyrus has also covered individually.

H/T: Country Rebel, The Boot