Following the death of Dolly Parton at age 80 on Tuesday, Beyoncé shared a heartfelt tribute to the country icon.
The “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM” singer took to her website, writing, “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,” Beyoncé continued. “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 eighth studio album, 2024’s Cowboy Carter, which went on to win the Grammy for best album the following year. On the spoken-word track “Dolly P,” Parton introduces Beyoncé, saying, “Hey, Miss Honey B, it’s Dolly P / You know that hussy with the good hair you sang about? / Reminded me of someone I knew back when / Except she has flamin’ locks of auburn hair, bless her heart / Just a hair of a different color but it hurts just the same.”
The “I Will Always Love You” singer was referencing her 1973 hit song “Jolene,” which featured the famous lyric “Flaming locks of auburn hair.” Beyoncé also covered “Jolene” on Cowboy Carter, rewriting some of the lyrics.
