‘Torn’ features what is described as Parton’s final recorded vocal performance and is set for release Nov. 13.
GATLINBURG, Tenn. (Smokies.LIVE Information Center) — A collaboration between U2 and country music legend Dolly Parton is set to bring together two major musical forces on a new song titled “Torn.”
The duet will serve as the final track on Carnaval De Luz, U2’s 16th studio album, scheduled for release Friday, Nov. 13, through Island Records.
Co-written by U2, Parton and songwriter Johnny McDaid, “Torn” is described as a tender country song exploring broken family relationships and themes with broader emotional connections.
According to the announcement, Parton recorded her vocals in Nashville in June 2026. The recording is being presented as her final recorded vocal performance before her reported death on Aug. 25, 2026.
The song was produced by Jacknife Lee and features Daniel Lanois on pedal steel guitar.
A separate country version, titled “Torn” (Kent Wells Version), will receive an exclusive country radio premiere Thursday, Nov. 12.
The version is scheduled to air throughout the day across major radio companies, including iHeart, Cumulus, Audacy, Beasley, Summit and Townsquare. It also will be featured on several SiriusXM channels, including The Highway, Prime Country and Y2Country, as well as the Music Choice platform.
Big Machine Records, Parton’s most recent label partner, will handle promotion and distribution of the country version to radio.
The collaboration brings together U2’s rock sound and Parton’s country roots for a song centered on family, relationships and the lasting connections between people.
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