Rock Legends Share Tributes to Dolly Parton

In the wake of Dolly Parton’s passing at age 80 following a brief battle with cancer, musicians across the rock, pop, and country worlds have taken to social media to share emotional tributes celebrating her life, career, and cultural legacy.

Rock and Pop Icons Remember Dolly

Stevie Nicks posted a photo paired with handwritten notes recalling her trip to Nashville to spend a week working with Parton on the song "What Has Rock and Roll Ever Done for You," which featured on Parton’s 2023 album Rockstar.

Eagles' Don Henley reflected on his own collaboration with Parton, calling it a career highlight. Journey vocalist Steve Perry shared a statement alongside a clip of their work together on Journey’s "Open Arms," another track from the Rockstar collection.

Heart's Ann Wilson shared a re-recording of "Magic Man" that she recorded with Parton, stating she "can’t imagine a world without Dolly." Her sister and bandmate Nancy Wilson added that Parton represented "everything that’s right about America."

Tributes From Across the Music Community

Billy Joel reflected on visiting Dollywood with his family last year, while John Fogerty and Joni Mitchell also shared online homages. The Grateful Dead’s official account highlighted Jerry Garcia’s longtime fandom and the band’s covers of Parton’s material in the 1970s.

Live tributes quickly followed on the road as well. Train and Chris Stapleton both incorporated emotional renditions of Parton’s signature ballad "I Will Always Love You" into their respective concert setlists.

Additional tributes rolled in from artists including Al Jardine and Mike Love of The Beach Boys, Cyndi Lauper, Jewel, Lionel Richie, Sting, and Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood.