Tributes have continued to pour in for country music legend Dolly Parton following her death at the age of 80, with global stars including Beyoncé, Taylor Swift and Oprah Winfrey celebrating her remarkable life and legacy.
Beyoncé paid an emotional tribute to Parton, describing her as an inspiration who taught generations of people the importance of embracing their individuality.
In a statement published on her official website, the singer 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 and Parton worked together on Beyoncé’s 2024 album, Cowboy Carter.
Parton featured on the interlude “Dolly P” and contributed to “Tyrant.”
Beyoncé also recorded a new version of Parton’s iconic song “Jolene” for the album, a rendition that Parton publicly praised.
Taylor Swift also mourned the legendary singer, reflecting on the lasting impact Parton had on music and generations of women.
“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.”
British music legend Sir Elton John also described Parton as “a giant of an artist, unique and irreplaceable, with the kindest heart,” adding that he was “shocked and devastated” by her death.
Sir Paul McCartney, who collaborated with Parton on a cover of “Let It Be” for her Rockstar album, also paid tribute to the late star.
“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.”
Media mogul Oprah Winfrey also honoured Parton, saying she “brought the light” and that the world was better because of her presence.
“Brought the light, and we are all better because she was here. God bless you, Dolly; you earned your wings.”
Parton’s influence extended far beyond country music, with her songwriting, philanthropy, humour and entrepreneurial spirit making her one of the most widely admired figures in entertainment.
Her death has also prompted a national tribute in the United States, with President Donald Trump ordering American flags across the country to be lowered for one week in her honour.
