Kesha Salutes Dolly Parton With Cover Co-Written By Her Mother

Kesha is leaning into her deep Nashville roots with a striking new tribute to country royalty. The pop superstar has unveiled a cover of Dolly Parton’s timeless hit "Old Flames (Can't Hold a Candle to You)," offering a soulful rendition that honors both the country icon and her own family's songwriting heritage. While Parton famously transformed the ballad into a massive chart-topping sensation back in 1980, the story behind the track makes Kesha’s new performance far more than a routine cover. The song carries a deeply personal history for the chart-topping pop singer, connecting decades of country music tradition directly to her own bloodline.

Who wrote Old Flames Cant Hold a Candle to You?

The classic country anthem was co-written by Kesha’s mother, veteran songwriter Pebe Sebert, alongside songwriter Hugh Moffatt. Long before Kesha dominated global pop charts with massive synth-heavy anthems like "Tik Tok" and "Die Young," her mother was busy crafting hit records in Nashville and pitching them to iconic artists. When Parton recorded "Old Flames (Can't Hold a Candle to You)" for her 1980 album, the track shot straight to the top of the Billboard country charts. Kesha’s decision to perform the song once again serves as a major full-circle moment, shining a bright spotlight on Sebert’s songwriting legacy while paying respect to Parton’s monumental impact on the genre.

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Did Kesha sing Old Flames with her mom?

Kesha has embraced her mother's songwriting catalog throughout her career, occasionally performing "Old Flames" during live shows, unplugged sessions, and studio projects. However, her latest tribute highlights the enduring power of the track and reintroduces the classic country hit to a brand-new generation of listeners. Music fans have frequently praised Kesha for her rich, versatile vocal abilities, which extend far beyond her signature party-pop catalog. Her emotional, stripped-back delivery on "Old Flames" leans heavily into her country roots, proving that her vocal talent can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Nashville legends. With this latest tribute, Kesha bridges the gap between classic country heritage and modern pop stardom. By honoring Parton through a masterpiece written right in her family's lineage, the singer delivers a touching salute to two of the most influential women in her life.