Orville Peck Honors Dolly Parton's Legacy at London Record Store Event
At a Rough Trade appearance in East London, Orville Peck expressed his grief over Dolly Parton's death, calling her his hero. He performed a cover of 'I Will Always Love You' and spoke about how Parton's presence in country music gave him comfort as a gay artist. Peck also promoted his upcoming album 'Mule' during the event.
Peck appeared at the East London record shop to support his forthcoming album *Mule*, due September 18, but the mood shifted after news of Parton's passing broke that same day. He acknowledged being emotionally unsettled, describing Parton as a figure defined by kindness and noting that quality felt increasingly scarce. Attendees captured the tribute on video, which circulated widely on social media.
As an openly gay performer in country music, Peck said Parton's mere presence in the genre offered him a sense of belonging during moments of isolation. He described realizing that Parton was his hero, his voice breaking as he connected her legacy to his own journey in an industry where he often felt alone.
This moment could resonate deeply with LGBTQ+ country music fans who have long viewed Parton as a quiet ally, as well as with artists navigating identity within traditionally conservative genres. Peck's public grief may reinforce Parton's status as a unifying cultural figure, potentially sparking broader conversations about acceptance and representation in country music. The tribute's circulation online could also introduce younger audiences to Parton's enduring influence.