Elle King Says She Had ‘One Shot Too Many’ Before Drunken Performance at Dolly Parton Tribute

Elle King Discloses Having Consumed Excess Alcohol Before Memorable Dolly Parton Show

American singer-songwriter, Elle King, recently shared her candid experience of what transpired before her notable performance at the Grand Ole Opry in tribute to Dolly Parton. The 36-year-old artist revealed on the Dumb Blonde podcast hosted by Bunnie XO that she was going through a challenging period in her life on January 19, 2024, when she took the stage to commemorate Dolly Parton’s 78th birthday. “I played two shows that day. It was perfect. But I hadn’t eaten… I hadn’t slept in days. Had such bad anxiety,” recounted the “High Road” artist.

Elle King confessed that prior to the performance, she had consumed one shot too many at a bar where she had encountered celebratory vibes. Mixing drinks, she found herself in a blackout state after taking a shot of tequila on top of a martini, feeling vulnerable in her reduced stature. Her onstage behaviour was marred with slurred words, profanity, and a confrontation with the audience, leading to an unrehearsed rendition of Dolly Parton’s “Marry Me.”

Reflecting on the incident, Elle King expressed deep regret and shame for her behaviour, highlighting her subsequent remorse and the lessons learnt from the experience. Despite receiving a call from Dolly Parton in a bid to console her, King admitted her disappointment that the interaction was clouded by the outcome of her performance. Parton, empathetically addressing the situation, emphasised King’s valued artistry and the personal struggles she was facing amidst turbulent times.

Following the controversial show, the Grand Ole Opry acknowledged and apologised for the performance, although assuring King that she was not banned from future appearances. Elle King acknowledged the growth she experienced from the episode, underscoring her resilience and determination to learn from past mistakes and evolve as an individual and artist moving forward. The singer’s candid narrative resonates with many facing personal struggles and seeking redemption in the face of adversity.

The intimate disclosure from Elle King about her vulnerable state before the Dolly Parton tribute at the Grand Ole Opry sheds light on the emotional turmoil and challenges artists may encounter behind the glamour of the spotlight. The transparency in King’s account serves as a reminder of the complexities of fame and the human stories that often lie beneath the surface. Her journey towards self-reflection and growth post-incident reflects a narrative of resilience and determination to overcome setbacks in pursuit of personal and professional development.

The aftermath of Elle King’s inebriated performance at the Grand Ole Opry serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility and imperfections that define the human experience, even in the realm of show business. By sharing her raw and unfiltered experience, King offers a glimpse into the vulnerability and self-awareness required to navigate the highs and lows of a public career. Her journey towards redemption and self-acceptance stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of perseverance in the face of adversity, resonating with audiences beyond the realm of music.

In conclusion, Elle King’s heartfelt account of her intoxicated performance at the Dolly Parton tribute highlights the universal themes of resilience, redemption, and self-discovery that transcend the boundaries of fame and fortune. Through her candid narrative, King invites introspection and empathy, underscoring the importance of owning one’s mistakes, seeking growth, and embracing vulnerability as part of the journey towards personal and artistic fulfilment. The lessons gleaned from King’s transformative experience serve as a poignant reminder of the power of authenticity and self-reflection in an industry often marred by superficiality and glamour.