Dolly Parton once described herself as "scared to death" about meeting Queen Elizabeth II, particularly concerning the proper etiquette for a curtsy, during a performance for the monarch in 1977. The encounter occurred during the Queen's Silver Jubilee celebrations in Glasgow, Scotland.
Parton, a country music legend, recalled her fascination with royalty as a child but found the Queen to be "very sweet" and "very warm" upon meeting her. The singer performed for the Queen as part of the royal tribute, singing her song "You Are" from her 1977 album "New Harvest First Gathering."
Parton learned she would be performing for the Queen while en route to Scotland, an announcement that filled her with excitement. She later reflected on the experience, noting that the Queen seemed understanding of any potential protocol missteps. "That's just something she had to do, and if somebody made a mistake, it was OK," Parton said of the Queen's demeanor.
Royal Tribute
In a gesture of respect following Parton's recent passing, Britain's Band of the Coldstream Guards played her iconic song "9 to 5" outside Buckingham Palace during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This musical tribute mirrored the mutual admiration between the two prominent female figures.
Royal broadcaster Helena Chard commented that Parton's death was comparable to losing Queen Elizabeth II, highlighting their shared qualities of strength and resilience. Chard suggested that both women "led with discipline and heart" and possessed a mutual respect for each other's poise, strength, and work ethic. Even King Charles III, known for his dancing, was humorously noted as likely enjoying a celebratory jig in Parton's memory.
Parton herself had honored the Queen after her death, stating on Instagram that she had the privilege of meeting and performing for her in 1977, adding that the Queen "carried herself with grace and strength her entire life."