Yesterday, the music world lost an icon, Dolly Parton passed away at the age of 80-years old after a brief battle with cancer.
The news quickly traveled around the world and some of the biggest names in the music industry from every genre shared what Dolly meant to them and here are a few we wanted to share with you...
Kevin Cronin, formerly of REO Speedwagon
Hi Friends, we all lost a National Treasure today. I lost a supporter, a collaborator, and a kindred spirit. I am so sad to hear of Dolly Parton’s passing. Rest in peace sweet Dolly. … kc#keeponlovingyou @DollyParton pic.twitter.com/ErZdDaMgNL
— Kevin Cronin Band (@KevinCroninREO) August 25, 2026
Billy Joel
Today we have lost a legend.
Dolly Parton has transcended time and become one of those iconic artists who is known for just being Dolly, beyond a specific song or moment in time. I was one of the lucky ones whose music she covered.
Our family visited Dollywood last year. Our children looked up to her and knew her music. The love for Dolly spanned generations. Her work in acknowledging endometriosis before most people knew what it was, and her philanthropic efforts have been inspirational to our family and our foundation.
We will miss her and her presence on this earth, but we will reap all the rewards of her life dedicated to making it a better place.
Love,
The Joel Family
Ann Wilson of Heart
Paul McCartney
“She was so bubbly and full of life, it is difficult to take in the news that she has passed,” he said. “Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly.”
Steve Perry
