Dolly Parton’s death prompts global tributes from music and culture icons

Country music icon Dolly Parton has died, prompting widespread tributes from the global arts community. Artists including kd lang, Peggy Seeger, Annie Lennox, and the Eurythmics have paid homage to a figure described as a generational talent who managed to be a formidable entrepreneur, a dedicated philanthropist, and a truly kind person. The reactions highlight her ability to transcend cultural and political divides while maintaining a deep connection to the working-class experience.

The Eurythmics recalled a specific performance of "Jolene" with Parton at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony on 5 November 2022. They described her as a surprisingly tiny figure in vertiginous high-heeled boots, yet noted that her presence was big enough to fill 10 football stadiums. The duo emphasised her warm, personable nature and dry sense of humour, stating that the moment was special because it lacked pedestals, except for the one they placed her upon that night.

Her legacy extends significantly beyond her musical catalogue. The Imagination Library organisation issued a statement noting Parton’s dedication to children’s literacy, stating the programme has put millions of books into the hands of children globally. This charitable effort is seen as a modern-day echo of the Appalachian tradition, where women once rode pack horses to deliver books to isolated cabins, a history Parton knew intimately from her own upbringing in poverty.

Performers also highlighted her business acumen and support for the LGBTQ+ community. Kelly O’Brien, a Dolly Parton tribute artist, mentioned that Parton’s 2023 album *Rockstar* saw her become more outspoken on LGBTQ+ rights. O’Brien noted that Parton brought "badass ideas to the deep south," standing her ground against death threats to support queer people. Her faith was described as being based on the idea that "I just want everybody to be treated good," a sentiment she used when discussing anti-trans legislation in her home state of Tennessee.

Paul Jepson, director of the musical *9 to 5*, noted that Parton was involved in the development of the musical and recorded vocals and spoken word from the US. He described her as the consummate pro who was genuinely lovely and incredibly generous. The musical, based on the 1980 movie and the real organisation 9to5 which fights for workers’ rights, continues to tour in various locations, a move Jepson believes Parton would have approved.

Tributes also reflect on her songwriting prowess, with artists praising tracks such as "Coat of Many Colors" and "Do I Ever Cross Your Mind?". Her second album, *Just Because I’m a Woman*, released in the early 1970s, is cited as evidence of her strength and her ability to turn pernicious attitudes towards women back on their critics. She is remembered as a plain-clothed prophet who embraced who she was and never judged anyone else, embodying a way of being that was simply to live and let live.