This week on Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music, fondly remembering Dolly Parton through her own music and interpretations, as well as covers by others.

We also say a fond farewell to the great Tim Curry, and introduce you to some new music from Wyclef Jean, The Womack Sisters, Detroit’s latest newcomer Ayla Ottenbreit and more.

See the playlist below and listen to the episode for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music Playlist for August 29, 2026

HOUR ONE:

• “French Quarter” – Wyclef Jean
• “Soul Bossa Nova” – Quincy Jones
• “Candy Apple” – Ayla Ottenbreit
• “I Wonder” – Prince
• “I Will Always Love You” – Dolly Parton
• “Two Doors Down” – Meshell Ndegeocello
• “Seven Bridges Road” – Dolly Parton
• “California Sober” – Iron & Wine
• “Talk It Over” – Leon Bridges
• “Love Me Not” – Grace Potter (Acoustic Cafe performance)
• “I Do The Rock” – Tim Curry (RIP)

HOUR TWO:

• “Rocinha” – Wyclef Jean
• “Rocket Man” – Bob James
• “Human (Sad Gay Version)” – Brandi Carlile
• “Little Sparrow” – Dolly Parton
• “9 To 5” – Alison Krauss
• “World On Fire” – Dolly Parton
• “Don’t Look Any Further” – Meshell Ndegeocello & Liana La Havas
• “Laughter And Tears” – The Womack Sisters
• “How Love’s Supposed To Go” – Alabama Shakes
• “I Am Ready” – Dolly Parton

Listen to Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music every Saturday from 2-4 p.m. ET on Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET and streaming on-demand at wdet.org