Eminem has shared a heartfelt letter he received from the late Dolly Parton, detailing what she described as an "unexplained connection" between them. The rapper, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, revealed the note shortly after Parton's death at the age of 80.
Parton sent the congratulatory message following their joint induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2022. In the letter, Parton expressed admiration for Eminem's performance, acknowledging his mastery of rap music.
"Your performance was amazing and everybody said so. Even though I don’t know a lot about rap music, I’ve come to know that you are the very best at it," Parton wrote. She also referenced Eminem's performance medley, which included hits like "My Name Is," "Rap God," and "Stan."
Parton went on to describe a personal feeling of connection to the rapper. "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," she wrote. She expressed regret at not being able to meet him at the ceremony, noting, "I had hoped to meet you at the show but you know how nuts those things are, personally I hate ’em and I missed my chance but maybe someday we’ll meet."
Parton concluded the letter with encouragement for Eminem's continued musical endeavors, emphasizing the impact of his work. "In the meantime, keep doing what you’re doing because you do it so well and no matter how complex your world may be just know you are very special and touch people in ways you don’t even know," she added. "With love & respect, Dolly Parton."
Eminem shared the note on social media, stating that the letter had a significant impact on him and thanking Parton for her kindness. "I’m sorry we never got a chance to meet, but getting this note from Dolly really had an impact on me," Eminem wrote. "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."
Parton's family announced her death, stating she passed peacefully after a private battle with cancer. Over her six-decade career, Parton amassed 11 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, and numerous other accolades in country music. Eminem, with a career spanning over three decades, has earned 15 Grammy Awards and many other honors in hip-hop.