Tributes have continued to pour in for American country music icon Dolly Parton following her death at the age of 80, with leading figures in the entertainment industry honouring her remarkable career, generosity and lasting influence.
Among those mourning Parton is American singer Beyoncé, who praised the late musician as a trailblazer whose career demonstrated the importance of originality, resilience and confidence.
In a statement published on her official website, Beyoncé wrote, “Dolly, you were the barometer. The north star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious. You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself. I am grateful for your art, your heart, your generosity, your humor, your entrepreneurship.
“I’m honored that I had the privilege to work with you. I will treasure that forever. Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully.”
Beyoncé collaborated with Parton on her 2024 album, Cowboy Carter. Parton appeared on the interlude Dolly P and also contributed to Tyrant.
The pop star also recorded a new version of Parton’s famous song Jolene for the album, a rendition that received the country music legend’s approval.
The BBC reported that Beyoncé was among several prominent musicians and public figures who reflected on Parton’s legacy following her death.
Taylor Swift described Parton’s passing as difficult to comprehend while acknowledging her profound impact on generations of women in music.
Swift said, “A world without Dolly doesn’t feel possible, real, or right. But because of the eternally generous way she spent her time on this earth and the countless lives she changed for the better, her legacy will be an everlasting one. She was truly the gift that kept on giving.
“Dolly gave us someone to look up to while encouraging us to be who we are as individuals. Somehow she was true grace and true grit, all in one dazzling person. She possessed the softest heart when it came to the struggles of others, and a backbone of steel to defend her own self-worth as an artist. Dolly, I’ll think of you each step of the way.”
Music legend Sir Elton John also mourned Parton, describing her as “a giant of an artist, unique and irreplaceable, with the kindest heart.”
He added that he was “shocked and devastated” by her death.
Former Beatles member Sir Paul McCartney, who collaborated with Parton on her rendition of Let It Be for the Rockstar album, also remembered her as an accomplished songwriter and philanthropist.
“The magnificent star Dolly Parton has died, and it is so sad. She was such a wonderful woman.
“Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music, and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly. Thanks, Dolly, for the beautiful music you gave me and the whole world. We will always love you; God bless and rest in peace. You were the best.”
Television personality Oprah Winfrey also paid tribute to Parton, saying the singer “brought the light” and that the world was better for having her in it.
“God bless you, Dolly; you earned your wings,” Winfrey wrote.