There are few famous figures as universally loved and respected as Dolly Parton, so when the news broke that the legendary musician, entertainer and philanthropist had passed away, heartfelt tributes began pouring in from across the globe. In her home nation of the US, flags have been flying at half-mast in her honour. Back across the pond here in the UK, the Royal Family today paid their own respects to the extraordinary life of Dolly Parton - in a uniquely British way.
Dolly Parton passed away at home at the age of 80 years old after a 'brief battle with cancer', her team announced on Tuesday (25 August). The following day (Wednesday 26 August) the Royal Family posted a video to their official social media channel revealing a moving rendition from the Buckingham Guards of Dolly's iconic hit, 9 to 5. During the changing of the guard, The Band of the Coldstream Guards performed an instrumental version of the song in front of Buckingham Palace.
A recording of the rendition was shared alongside a touching message; 'Remembering the late, great Dolly, who brought joy, comfort and inspiration to so many - including the millions of children given free books through her Imagination Library. We will always ❤️ you.'
The post garnered hundreds of thousands of comments and reactions within hours of posting, with commenters praising the totally brilliant and unique musical tribute to the star. Many mentioned that the surprise performance had been emotional and even moved people to tears.
Dolly met the late Queen Elizabeth II during her Silver Jubilee celebrations in 1977. Acccording to the BBC, she told a local paper the meeting was 'one of the biggest thrills' of her life. 'When I was a little girl, I grew up in a world of kings and queens and princes and princesses in fairy tales,' Dolly said. 'Now I’m going to meet one.' She even sent a special video message to Her Majesty to mark her Platinum Jubilee in 2022 (second slide below):
Dolly Parton was born in Tennessee as one of 12 siblings growing up in a one room cabin. She went onto become one of the most successful singers and songwriters in the world, and became known for her iconic and unapologetic style - featuring plenty of rhinestones, of course. However, Dolly is also remembered for what she gave back through her success, founding charities such as her Imagination Library and even funding COVID 19 vaccination research through her foundation.
