Dolly Parton and Linda Perry collide on “What’s Up” in a performance that instantly rewires how a 90s anthem can sound when the legends sing it themselves. ML
Dolly Parton has once again proved she knows exactly how to capture a cultural moment. The 79-year-old country icon has gone viral after sharing a stripped-down cover of 4 Non Blondes’ classic “What’s Up” — joined by none other than the song’s original singer, Linda Perry.
Posted to Dolly’s TikTok with the playful caption “What’s going on @Linda Perry?”, the video shows the two music legends sitting side by side as Perry strums the guitar and Dolly delivers her signature powerhouse vocals. The simplicity of the performance has stopped fans in their tracks — a pure, soulful take on one of the most recognisable anthems of the 1990s.
The collaboration itself isn’t new. Originally recorded in 2023 for Dolly’s Rockstar album, the duet is suddenly everywhere again thanks to the ongoing TikTok mashup trend blending “What’s Up” with Nicki Minaj’s “Beez in the Trap.” The viral challenge — attempted by everyone from the Kardashians to ordinary users — has introduced the 1993 hit to a new generation. By reposting her version now, Dolly has once again proven her gift for impeccable timing.
Fans immediately picked up on the genius of her move. “Lord I thought Dolly was about to do the Beez in the Trap remix for us,” one commenter joked, while another demanded, “When will you drop the remix, Dolly?” Others simply praised the music: “This gave me goosebumps! Beautiful collab.” Another viewer added, “So much better than the latest version.”
The stripped-down rendition highlights what made the original so enduring — emotional rawness, simple instrumentation, and a message that still resonates more than 30 years on. With Perry’s raspy authenticity and Dolly’s smooth, soaring tone, the result is an unexpected blend of rock grit and country soul that feels timeless.
The moment also captures what fans love most about Dolly Parton: her uncanny instinct for when and how to re-enter the spotlight. Over her decades-long career — from “Jolene” and “9 to 5” to her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — Dolly has consistently stayed relevant without ever chasing trends. This TikTok release feels like another masterstroke from an artist who understands both the power of nostalgia and the speed of the internet.
Comments on the video were filled with affection and awe. “Dolly is my President. And I am certain she may also be God herself,” one fan wrote, while another dubbed her “our last true beacon of goodness and kindness.” Others celebrated the pairing of the two icons with playful remarks: “Linda Perry and the Queen of Blondes” and “1 non-blonde + THE blonde.”
Many also appreciated the sincerity of the performance during a turbulent time online. “The cover we needed right now,” one commenter wrote. “Love your music, Dolly.” Another praised her resilience, saying, “You’ve always been a good one. Thank you for continuing to be strong when so much is being thrown at you.”
Born January 19, 1946, in Locust Ridge, Tennessee, Parton has long been a master of reinvention. From her early appearances on The Porter Wagoner Show to winning 11 Grammys and receiving the Kennedy Center Honours, she’s spent her career balancing humour, humility, and extraordinary artistry. Her ventures — from Dollywood to philanthropy and even funding Covid-19 vaccine research — have only added to her reputation as one of the most universally beloved figures in entertainment.
Meanwhile, Linda Perry remains a respected force behind the scenes, writing hits for Pink, Christina Aguilera, and Adele. Seeing her revisit her own defining song alongside Dolly gives the performance an added emotional layer — a meeting of two women whose music shaped generations in very different ways.
Ultimately, the duet is more than just a viral clip. It’s a reminder of what happens when timeless talent meets perfect timing. As one fan put it perfectly: “The cover we didn’t know we wanted.”
Louise is an expert content creator, and online author for Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio. She’s evolved in a few different fields, including mental health and travel, and is now excited to be part of the wonderful word of Radio.
