Jewel Kilcher, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, has shared her heartfelt reflections on country music legend Dolly Parton in the wake of the icon’s recent passing. Parton died on August 25 at the age of 80 after a brief struggle with cancer, and Jewel has fondly recalled their collaborative history, as well as personal moments that highlighted the late star’s generosity and character.
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Speaking to PEOPLE, Jewel expressed how deeply touched she was by a letter she received from Parton following her performance of “Jolene” at a 2022 event. In the note, Parton praised Jewel’s ability to captivate an audience and her warm stage presence, noting how proud she felt of the performance. “To have one of your heroes say those kinds of things about you really does a body good,” Jewel said.
In their collaborative past, the two artists first crossed paths several years ago during a local disaster relief event in Nashville. Jewel recounted the excitement she felt, saying, “We were all quietly freaking out because we grew up on Dolly.” In a moment that epitomised Parton’s warm personality, she approached Jewel to ask if she could take a photograph with her family, demonstrating her thoughtfulness and kindness.
Their musical journey together began in earnest with the release of their song “My Father’s Daughter” in 2015, part of Jewel’s album *Picking Up the Pieces*. Jewel explained her desire to collaborate with Parton was rooted in a personal connection to the artist’s humble beginnings. “Dolly’s autobiographical songwriting was a big influence on me,” she revealed, highlighting how Parton’s storytelling resonated with her own experiences growing up in rural Alaska.
Jewel fondly remembered the day Parton arrived to record, describing her as “glamorous,” arriving impeccably dressed and ready to work. The legend encouraged Jewel to take charge as producer, instilling confidence in her colleague while ensuring she had support if needed. “She had thought of everything. She empowered me to do my job, but also had a backup plan,” Jewel recalled.
Another special memory came in 2022 when Jewel was invited to perform “Jolene” at the Bezos Courage and Civility Award presentation, which was bestowed upon Parton. Jewel admitted that she felt a mix of fear and excitement, performing in front of such a revered figure. “Singing one of her most iconic songs with Dolly sitting just a few feet away was incredibly intimidating,” she said, but also expressed immense gratitude for the honour.
After the performance, Parton’s letter bolstered Jewel’s confidence, with the country star praising her talent and presence. Parton’s encouraging words, including how much she enjoyed the performance, left Jewel feeling deeply appreciated and inspired. “She made me feel seen and inspired,” Jewel reflected, expressing her wish to emulate Parton’s blend of wit, grace, and humour.
Parton’s passing has led many, including Jewel, to reflect on her extraordinary contributions both as a musician and as a philanthropic force. Jewel highlighted not just Parton’s music but also her impact through literacy initiatives and her dedication to underserved communities. “She combined tremendous business intelligence and ambition with warmth, humour, and generosity. That is a rare combination,” Jewel stated, capturing the essence of the country icon.
As Jewel remembers her time with Parton, she acknowledges the lasting influence of the late star. “It was an honour to grow up listening to her music… It has been an honour to walk this earth with her still in it. She will be missed,” she concluded, highlighting the deep sense of loss felt not only by those who knew her but also by her countless fans around the world.
Dolly Parton’s remarkable legacy as a trailblazer in both music and philanthropy resonates strongly, and through Jewel’s memories and insights, we are reminded of the profound impact she had on her peers and the generations of artists that will follow.