Miley Cyrus Shares Emotional Reflection on Final Conversation with Godmother Dolly Parton
The singer revealed her last talk with the late Parton was about Cyrus's new record, and she intends to continue a tradition of sending her a vinyl copy.
Miley Cyrus recently spoke about her profound bond with her late godmother, Dolly Parton, holding back tears as she recounted their final conversation. The legendary musician Dolly Parton passed away at the age of 80 in late August after a battle with cancer.
In an interview on Zane Lowe's Apple Music podcast, Cyrus, 33, shared that her last discussion with Parton revolved around Cyrus's new album, "Bass Persuades," which was released on Friday. Cyrus revealed her intention to continue a long-standing tradition of sending Parton a vinyl copy of her record, stating, "I'm going to send her a vinyl because I always do."
Cyrus elaborated on the unique connection she shared with Parton, noting that their differences made them a perfect match. She described Parton as someone known for her elaborate persona but who also possessed a deeply authentic core, a quality Cyrus admired. "There was a time in my life... so much of my life was about persona," Cyrus explained, crediting Parton for helping her understand how to maintain authenticity alongside a public image.
The singer also touched upon Parton's advice regarding emotional performances. Cyrus admitted to often crying during her live shows, a habit Parton had noticed. "Music is escapism. Let them cry. You need to get through it," Parton had advised, encouraging Cyrus to embrace her vulnerability. Cyrus reflected that Parton loved her for who she was, including her emotional expression.
Cyrus described Parton as a crucial stabilizing figure in her life, someone she could always call upon for guidance. "It's like how your mom's like always right, and when you're a kid, you're like, 'what does she know?' And then as you get older, you're like, everything.... Dolly was just always right about stuff," Cyrus said.
Following Parton's passing, Cyrus shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, writing, "The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share. Our most sacred moments were private and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts."
In her tribute, Cyrus also expressed her belief that Parton would want her to process her grief through her music and remain strong. "I will always love her and want to make her proud," she added. "My heart breaks for the world, her family and friends who will miss her deeply. We’re in this loss together and we will see her in all of the most beautiful things."
Parton became Cyrus's godmother in 2009, having known her since she was a baby through her friendship with Cyrus's father. Parton had previously expressed pride in Cyrus, noting her talent as a singer and songwriter and even making a guest appearance on Cyrus's Disney Channel series "Hannah Montana" in 2006.