Dolly Parton Wrote To Eminem About Their Special Connection

Eminem has revealed a personal letter Dolly Parton once wrote to him about the “unexplained connection” she felt they shared.

A family spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday that the country music icon had died aged 80 following a “brief battle” with cancer.

Parton will be remembered during a “small, private” funeral attended by members of her immediate family.

After news of her death emerged, Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers III, shared a message Parton sent him following his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.

“Even though I don't know a lot about rap music, I've come to know that you are the very best at it,” she wrote. “Aside from that I hope what I have to say will not seem weird or strange to you but I have always felt some unexplained connection to you like I know you somehow.”

Parton also expressed her desire to meet Eminem someday and encouraged him to “keep doing what you're doing”.

Alongside the letter, the ‘Lose Yourself’ rapper wrote about his sadness following the death of the ‘Jolene’ singer.

“I'm sorry we never got a chance to meet, but getting this note from Dolly really had an impact on me,” he insisted. “She definitely didn't have to take the time to do it. Even for a kid who mostly listened to rap music, she was an icon. A superstar in every sense. Rest easy Dolly. And thank you for the kind words.”

Beyoncé also published an emotional message celebrating Parton on her official website. The artists previously worked together on a fresh interpretation of ‘Jolene’ for the 44 year old singer’s 2024 album, ‘Cowboy Carter’.

“Dolly, you were the barometer. The North Star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious. You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself,” she reflected. “I'm honored that I had the privilege to work with you. I will treasure that forever. Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully.”

Dionne Warwick shared her own memories of her friend in a post on X.

“I will certainly miss her laugher, jokes and her being. Rest well and in total peace my friend. My heart is heavy,” she reflected.