MENTION the coal miner’s daughter and every country fan thinks of Loretta Lynn. This year, the big sister of Crystal Gayle is celebrating the 50th anniversary of her debut single, I’m A Honkytonk Girl.

Already a Grammy Lifetime Achiever and member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, she has asked artists she admires to record her songs on a special release. Lee Ann Womack takes on Honkytonk Girl, while Carrie Underwood (You’re Looking At Country), Faith Hill (Love Is The Foundation) and Reba McEntire (If You’re Not Gone Too Long) take on other hits. Duets come from Martina McBride and Alan Jackson, whosing Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man, and Steve Earle and Allison Moorer, with After The Fire Is Gone.

Others artists featured include Lucinda Williams, Kid Rock, Paramore, The White Stripes and Gretchen Wilson.

Loretta sings alongside Sheryl Crow and recent Country Music Association Entertainer Of The Year Miranda Lambert. She will be honoured at Nashville’s Rymam Auditorum with a star studded tribute concert and a presentation of The Recording Academy’s President’s Merit Award in recognition of her remarkable career and contribution to country music.