Rapper Eminem has shared a personal and touching note he received from the late country music legend Dolly Parton. Despite the two artists never having met in person, Parton sent Eminem a congratulatory message after they were both inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2022.
Eminem, 53, posted about the impact of Parton's note, expressing regret that they never had the chance to meet. "She definitely didn’t have to take the time to do it," he wrote in a caption. "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."
In her note, Parton addressed Eminem, whose real name is Marshall, by his birth name. "Congratulations on your induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Your performance was amazing and everybody said so," she wrote. Parton also expressed a unique sense of connection to the rapper, stating, "Even though I don't know a lot about rap music, I’ve come to know that you are the very best at it. 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 mentioned her hope to have met him at the induction ceremony but indicated she missed the opportunity, describing such events as "nuts." She added, "maybe someday we’ll meet. 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. With love & respect, Dolly Parton."
Parton's death was met with widespread tributes from various public figures. Representatives confirmed her passing following a brief battle with cancer, without specifying the type. The statement highlighted her lifelong dedication to bringing joy and laughter, citing her extensive philanthropic work, including the Imagination Library and funding research for a lifesaving vaccine.
The country music superstar, often referred to as the Queen of Country, had a career spanning six decades, with notable hits including "Jolene" and "9 to 5." Her public appearances had become infrequent in the months leading up to her death due to ongoing health issues, which had fueled fan concerns. She had previously pulled out of several public engagements, including a Las Vegas residency and the opening of a new ride at her Dollywood theme park. Her last known public appearance was a video shared at the Dollywood ride opening in August.