McCartney Mourns Dolly Parton, Recalls Their 'Let It Be' Collaboration
Paul McCartney expressed grief over Dolly Parton's death, calling her a 'magnificent star' and praising her songwriting, singing, and philanthropy. He recalled meeting her at the Grand Ole Opry and collaborating on her 2024 cover of 'Let It Be,' which featured him and Ringo Starr. Parton's family confirmed her passing on Tuesday, prompting tributes from many artists.
McCartney's tribute highlighted a connection spanning decades, noting their first encounter in Nashville when Parton was performing with Porter Wagoner at the Grand Ole Opry, just as her solo career was beginning. He praised her business acumen alongside her artistic gifts, describing her as someone who understood both the commercial value of her music and its emotional resonance with audiences worldwide.
Their professional relationship culminated in Parton's 2024 album *Rockstar*, where she recorded a cover of "Let It Be" with both McCartney and Ringo Starr contributing. McCartney described the collaboration as a personal honor, while her nephew Bryan Seaver delivered the family's announcement, noting Parton had prepared the statement years in advance. Additional tributes arrived from Kacey Musgraves, Jane Fonda, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Sabrina Carpenter.
Parton's passing at 80 marks the loss of a figure whose influence stretched far beyond country music, touching pop culture, film, and philanthropy. Her death may prompt renewed appreciation for her catalog and her literacy programs, which have distributed millions of books. Fans and younger artists alike could find themselves revisiting her work, while the outpouring of tributes suggests her legacy will continue shaping how country music's history is told for years to come.