John Mayer paid tribute to the late Dolly Parton with a guitar solo at a private SiriusXM concert in the Hamptons on Wednesday night. The performance took place at the Stephen Talkhouse and drew a crowd of notable guests.
Among those in attendance were Paul and Stella McCartney, Michael J. Fox, Howard and Beth Stern, Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka, Marcus King, Katie Couric, and Andy Cohen. MSG executive James Dolan was also present.
Mayer performed several of his hits, including "Who Says" and "Slow Dancing in a Burning Room." During his encore, he played the guitar solo from Parton's 1974 song "I Will Always Love You." Some audience members reportedly shouted for a Dolly Parton cover earlier in the show, unaware of the subtle musical homage.
Mayer also spoke about Parton in an interview with Andy Cohen for his SiriusXM show. "I think Dolly would be really happy to see that on the day of her passing, the world came together in a way that it hadn’t in a very long time to celebrate someone," Mayer said. He reflected on Parton's ability to "galvanize a very fractured world to come together and share love for one person."
During the concert, Mayer also shared some lighthearted observations, including his personal rule for tipping food delivery drivers. He also mentioned that he was mixing a new single from his upcoming ninth album in Cohen's bedroom, as he was staying with his friend while in the Hamptons.
Dolly Parton, a celebrated figure in country music, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80. Her career spanned decades, earning her widespread acclaim and a devoted fan base.