Dolly Parton: Beyoncé, Taylor Swift Lead Tributes
Tributes have continued to pour in for country music icon Dolly Parton following her death on Tuesday at the age of 80, with Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Oprah Winfrey, Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney among those remembering the legendary singer. Beyoncé paid an emotional tribute to Parton, describing her as a “north star” and praising her talent, generosity, humour and entrepreneurial spirit. In a statement published on her official website, Beyoncé said she was grateful for Parton’s art and the lessons she taught about remaining true to oneself. She also expressed appreciation for having had the opportunity to work with the country music legend, saying she would always treasure the experience. The two artists collaborated on Beyoncé’s 2024 album Cowboy Carter. Parton appeared on the interlude Dolly P and contributed to Tyrant. Beyoncé also recorded a reworked version of Parton’s classic Jolene for the album, which Parton publicly praised at the time. Taylor Swift also reflected on Parton’s influence, saying her legacy would endure because of the countless lives she changed through her generosity and example. Swift described Parton as someone who encouraged people to remain true to themselves while also showing grace, determination and strength in defending her worth as an artist. Sir Elton John remembered Parton as a “giant of an artist,” describing her as unique and irreplaceable and praising her kind heart. Sir Paul McCartney, who worked with Parton on a cover of Let It Be for her Rockstar album, also expressed sadness over her death. He praised her songwriting, singing and philanthropy, saying it was difficult to imagine the world without her. Oprah Winfrey remembered Parton for the joy and light she brought to others, saying people were better because she had been in the world.
The tributes reflect Parton’s influence far beyond country music. Her career and collaborations connected her with artists across generations and genres, while her music, personality, generosity and entrepreneurial spirit made her a widely admired figure. Following the announcement of her death, United States President Donald Trump ordered American flags to be flown at half-staff across the country for one week in her honour. The order covers federal buildings, military installations and other U.S. facilities at home and abroad until sunset on September 1, 2026. Parton’s death marks the end of a remarkable career that made her one of the most recognisable figures in music and entertainment, with tributes continuing to underline the lasting impact she had on artists, audiences and generations around the world.
#UTVAfrica#
