Bono reveals Dolly Parton broke bed rest to record U2 duet

**Dolly Parton’s Final Recording: Bono Reveals How the Legend Sang “Torn” Before Her Passing**

In June, as her health was already declining, Dolly Parton broke out of bed rest to lay down the final vocal track for U2’s upcoming album “Carnaval De Luz.” The country star recorded the song “Torn,” which will appear on the release set for November 19.

Parton, who died on August 25 at age 80, left a legacy that now includes a posthumous performance that fans can still hear.

Bono, 66, told ** on Thursday that Parton “got out of her bed to sing this song.” He added, “She sang her heart out,” and that he “can’t even listen” to the track since she passed away.

The frontman described the moment as “very moving,” noting how it was “sobering” to have such an intimacy with a legendary figure who is no longer present.

Producer Garret “Jacknife” Lee said Parton “was thrilled with it.” He recalled that they were nervous about her approval but she loved the final mix. The song was co‑written by Johnny McDaid of Snow Patrol and is described in the album’s press release as a “tender country song detailing broken family ties that holds wider resonances.”

## Background & Context

Parton’s death on August 25 marked the end of an 80‑year life that spanned country music, philanthropy, and acting. Her collaboration with U2 was part of a larger project: the forthcoming album “Carnaval De Luz,” slated for release on November 19.

Though Parton had expressed interest in contributing to the entire record, she ultimately declined, calling it “a little too Irish” for her style.

Earlier this month, the late singer’s cover of “Bound to Ride” was released posthumously, becoming her first new song to drop after her death.

The “Torn” track itself was recorded in 2022 for the all‑star tribute album “Where the Soul Never Dies: Celebrating 80 Years of the Stanley Brothers,” and has now been repurposed for U2’s collection.

The song’s title, “Torn,” suggests themes of fractured relationships, a motif that resonates with Parton’s own storied career. Its inclusion on a U2 album highlights the cross‑genre collaboration that both artists have long pursued in their respective careers.

## What People Are Saying

Bono expressed admiration for Parton’s resilience, noting that she “sang her heart out.” He emphasized how astonishing it was to hear an 80‑year‑old woman perform with such passion. Jacknife Lee echoed this sentiment, stating that Parton “was so proud of her vocal and the recording” and that she “loved the final mix.”

Parton herself had previously hinted at a never‑before‑heard track that would be released at Dollywood in 2045, joking she “might still be hoppin’ around” at 99. Though this statement is unrelated to the current collaboration, it illustrates her playful outlook on legacy and future projects.

The collaborative effort has been described by those involved as “intimate” and “sobering,” reflecting the weight of performing with a legend who has just passed. Fans and critics alike are already discussing the significance of this final recording in the context of Parton’s broader influence on music across genres.

## What Happens Next

The album “Carnaval De Luz” is scheduled for release on November 19, bringing Parton’s final performance into the public sphere. No additional songs from Parton are slated for release at this time beyond the track “Torn.” The posthumous cover of “Bound to Ride” remains her most recent contribution to music after her death.

U2’s frontman and producer remain in contact with collaborators, but details on future projects featuring Parton’s voice are not yet announced. Fans can anticipate hearing the track as part of the full album, offering a final glimpse into the artist’s enduring talent.

In the months following her passing, Dolly Parton will continue to be remembered for her extensive catalog and philanthropy. Her last recorded song, performed with U2, stands as her lasting impact on music and culture.