"Really had an impact on me": Rap icon Eminem remembers Dolly Parton as an "icon" and "superstar" in emotional message

37th Annual Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony - Show - Source: Getty
37th Annual Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony - Show - Source: Getty

Eminem pays homage to Dolly Parton following her death at 80, revealing that a personal note from the country legend left a lasting impression on him.

The rapper shared his tribute on social media, saying he regretted never having the opportunity to meet the Jolene singer in person.

"I'm sorry we never got a chance to meet, but getting this note from Dolly really had an impact on me."

Eminem posted the message he had received from the country superstar in the past, which he said had impacted him. Further, he pointed out that she had taken the time to reach out to him despite not needing to do so.

Eminem also reflected on Dolly Parton's immense popularity, even though he grew up listening to mostly rap music.

"Even for a kid who mostly listened to rap music, she was an icon. A superstar in every sense."

The rapper concluded his message with a farewell to Parton and gratitude for her kind words.

"Rest easy Dolly. And thank you for the kind words."

Dolly Parton's message to Eminem

The rapper, whose real name is Marshall Bruce Mathers III, didn't mention when the country superstar sent her note, but it contained her congratulations for Eminem amid his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The event occurred in November 2022.

37th Annual Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony - Inside - Source: Getty
37th Annual Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony - Inside - Source: Getty

Parton wrote:

"Marshall (Eminem), Congratulations on your induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. 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."

The country legend continued, saying that she somehow felt a connection with Eminem, and asked the rapper if they could meet at the show.

"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."
Dolly Parton - Source: Getty
Dolly Parton - Source: Getty

Dolly Parton died on Tuesday, Aug. 25, drawing tribute from fellow artists in the music industry and beyond.

She had made a mark in her career for decades and was well known to have worked in multiple genres, while her philanthropy through organizations including the Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library expanded her influence far beyond country music.

Her death was confirmed in a statement by her family, honoring her legacy and generosity throughout her life. They also revealed Dolly Parton's cause of death.

"Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope, and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand."

The statement continued:

"After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, surrounded by loved ones."

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Edited by Gladys Altamarino