Before her performance, Parton gave a speech emphasizing the importance of women taking ownership of their work.
"I'd like to acknowledge a few -- some of them older kind of back in my day. Cindy Walker, who wrote some of the greatest songs ever and of course Loretta Lynn, wonderful wonderful songwriter. And this day in time, of course, Taylor Swift, she's just right up there, probably number one. And of course, Brandi Carlile, there's just so many" Parton said. "I think it's so important that we acknowledge the women that write and sing in country music. And I think it's also very important that they take control of their own business."