Remembering Dolly Parton's Last Show in Sioux Falls

Few figures in American music managed to unify people quite like Dolly Parton. Across decades, genres, and generations, her warmth, razor-sharp wit, and incredible generosity made her a universally beloved icon. But for those of us right here in South Dakota, that connection always felt a little more personal.

Over her legendary six-decade career, Dolly brought her magic to Sioux Falls at least four times, with each visit capturing a snapshot of her longstanding legacy:

1968 at the Sioux Falls Coliseum: A young Dolly Parton pulled double duty in a single night alongside Porter Wagoner, just as her solo path was taking flight. In true grassroots fashion, she even hosted an autograph session at the local Kmart earlier that day, making a lifelong impression on local fans who lined up just to say hello.
2002 at the Washington Pavilion: Decades later as a global superstar, she returned for a sold-out benefit show to launch and promote the statewide expansion of her Imagination Library. Before she took the stage, our very own coworker Alan had the honor of introducing her to a packed house, cementing a night dedicated to put books in the hands of South Dakota kids.
2016 at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center: On July 22, 2016 (almost exactly ten years ago) Dolly graced a Sioux Falls stage one last time on her Pure and Simple tour. Stripping away massive arena production in favor of raw storytelling, pure vocals, and undeniable charm, she gave the Sioux Empire an unforgettable evening.

Thanks to a listener who shared some incredible photos and video from that night in 2016, we’re looking back at her final Sioux Falls performance. Here is a look back at the setlist, the music, and the memories of the night Dolly Parton last brought her sparkle to town.

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July 22, 2016 - A Night to Remember

Unlike modern arena tours packed with giant LED screens, pyrotechnics, and elaborate dancers, Dolly’s 'Pure and Simple' tour relied purely on her songwriting, her storytelling, and her incredible musical talent. Backed by a stripped-down band, she hopped between instruments (acoustic guitar, dulcimer, banjo, penny whistle, and sax) showing off the raw musician behind the global icon.

Longtime KXRB radio host, Randy McDaniel shared his thoughts on the historic concert:

My wife and I had the pleasure of seeing Dolly at the Denny Sanford Premier Center in Sioux Falls in 2016. I can honestly say it was the most enjoyable concert I've ever been to. Truly, Dolly had thousands of people in the palm of her hand.
-Randy McDaniel

During the show, Dolly played iconic staples like 'Jolene,' 'Coat of Many Colors,' '9 to 5,' and 'I Will Always Love You,' alongside acoustic storytelling and gospel favorites like 'I'll Fly Away.'"

More than 5,000 fans filled the PREMIER Center, creating an atmosphere that felt less like a massive arena concert and more like a cozy living room gathering. Every story she told between songs - about her East Tennessee roots, her family, and her early years in music - had the entire arena hanging on every word.

Check out the video below for some of the best moments of that historic night, a little over ten years ago when Dolly graced the stage at the Denny Sanford Premier Center.

Special thanks to Melissa Doyle Designs for the photos and video.

The Ultimate Sioux Falls Visitor's Guide: A to Z

Sioux Falls has lots to explore; fun stuff for the whole family, food of every kind, educational opportunities, and more! If you have out-of-town guests visiting, you're new to Sioux Falls, or you're thinking about moving here, this is a must-see guide.

Take some great photos to post on social media (and don't forget the hashtag #HiFromSiouxFalls).

Sioux Falls, South Dakota. We call it the 'Sioux Empire.' It's the biggest city in the state with a population of over 206,000. We’re known for our namesake, Falls Park, along the Big Sioux River. Sioux Falls has received numerous accolades for its quality of life. We have been named the number one best place to rent in America. We’ve topped the list of Best States to Find a Job. Sioux Falls is the Best City in America for Young Professionals. We've appeared on lists such as Most Charming Small Cities, Top 10 Place to Raise Kids, and even ranked 10th in the 2020 Top 100 Best Places to Live. We have an abundance of achievements, and you can see them on the Sioux Falls Development Foundation's website.

It's a pretty awesome city and that's why we think you should come and visit. If you're coming for business or pleasure, we've put together a list of places to go and things to see.

We know you want to explore the attractions the city is known for like Falls Park, the Arc of Dreams, and the Sculpture Walk, but there's a lot more to see and do than just the touristy (that's really a word) stuff. The best places to go are where the locals go and we have a not your average, ordinary visitor's guide.

Here's a list of over 100 things to do and places to go in Sioux Falls.

Gallery Credit: Karla Brown - KKRC