Rapper Eminem revealed a personal note sent to him by the late country music legend Dolly Parton, expressing admiration and congratulations following their joint induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2022.
Despite never meeting, Eminem, 53, shared that Parton's message had a significant impact on him. "I'm sorry we never got a chance to meet, but getting this note from Dolly really had an impact on me," he wrote in a caption. He acknowledged Parton as an "icon" and "superstar" whose kindness he appreciated.
In her note, Parton congratulated Eminem on his Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, stating, "Your performance was amazing and everybody said so." She added that while she did not know much about rap music, she recognized him as "the very best at it."
Parton also conveyed a sense of unexplained connection to the rapper, writing, "I have always felt some unexplained connection to you like I know you somehow." She expressed regret for missing the opportunity to meet him at the induction ceremony, describing such events as "nuts" and stating she "hated 'em." Parton concluded her note by encouraging him to continue his work, emphasizing his special impact on people.
Parton, who died at 80 after a brief battle with cancer, received numerous tributes from a wide range of public figures. Her representatives confirmed her passing, stating she died at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones. The statement highlighted her lifelong dedication to bringing "joy, laughter, hope and integrity" through her career and philanthropic efforts, including her Imagination Library book program and funding research for a lifesaving vaccine.
Parton, often called the Queen of Country, had a career spanning six decades, with notable hits including "Jolene," "9 to 5," and "I Will Always Love You." Her death followed a period of health issues that led her to withdraw from several public appearances. Her last known public appearance was a video shared at the grand opening of a new ride at her Dollywood theme park on August 14.