In a heartfelt tribute to the late Dolly Parton, rising music star Shaboozey shared his reflections on the country legend’s profound influence, particularly on his own family, during the 2026 Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Awards held in New York City.
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Dolly Parton, a titan of country music, passed away at the age of 80 on August 25, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that reached far beyond Nashville. Born Collins Obinna Chibueze, Shaboozey, now 31, recounted how Parton’s music had made a significant impact on his family and others around the globe.
Speaking to PEOPLE at the prestigious awards event on November 2, Shaboozey shared, “She was one of my dad’s favourite country artists.” He noted the surprising connection that his Nigerian father had with Parton’s music, illustrating the worldwide reach of her artistry. “The fact that he knows Dolly Parton just shows you how much of a global impact she had on the entire world, not just Nashville,” he remarked, highlighting Parton’s role in elevating country music to an international audience.
Shaboozey continued to praise Parton’s activism and her vision of country music, emphasizing that she successfully shaped the genre into what it is today. “I think she accomplished that, man. So, Dolly Parton forever,” he expressed with enthusiasm.
In July 2026, Shaboozey released an album titled *The Outlaw Cherie Lee & Other Western Tales*, which showcases his growth as an artist. The album features a single entitled “Cowgirl,” where he pays homage to Parton by referencing her iconic song “9 to 5.” The lyrics include the line, “Meet me on the dance floor, two-step to the left / Girl, you found the right one, Dolly said it best / Treat it like a 9 to 5, we ain’t gettin’ any rest.”
During the awards ceremony, Shaboozey also discussed the recent success of fellow artist Ella Langley’s single “Choosin’ Texas.” The song made headlines by breaking the record for the longest-running No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100, securing 26 weeks at the top. “It’s cool to see Ella Langley getting the longest number one of all time. ‘Choosin’ Texas’ beating me out,” Shaboozey acknowledged, reflecting on his own accomplishment with “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” which had previously tied for the longest-running non-holiday No. 1 song alongside Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road.”
His comments not only highlight the growing trend in country music but also underline the exciting developments within the genre today. “Just seeing country music becoming what it is and fun and everybody enjoying it in just different places, again, it’s what Dolly would’ve wanted as well,” he remarked.
Shaboozey expressed admiration for the current landscape of country music, especially noting the increasing prominence of female artists. “It’s just cool to see women really kicking butt,” he added, suggesting a shift in the industry that encourages diverse voices and perspectives.
As the music world continues to evolve, the enduring legacy of Dolly Parton remains a source of inspiration and admiration for artists like Shaboozey and many others. Her influence transcends borders and generations, solidifying her place as one of the most beloved figures in music history. The heartfelt sentiment expressed by Shaboozey is a testament to Parton’s capacity to connect with listeners from all walks of life, proving that her music will resonate for years to come.
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