Miley Cyrus has opened up about her final conversation with her godmother, Dolly Parton, who died at age 80 on August 25. Speaking to Apple Music’s Zane Lowe on September 17, Cyrus recalled discussing her new album with Parton and explained why their differences made their relationship so special.
“She’s known for, I guess, the faux, the fake, the hair, the makeup, the show of it, but there’s a part of her that’s just what I think everyone gravitates toward—how real she is and how authentic she is,” Cyrus said, describing how Parton helped her understand that having a public persona did not mean losing sight of who she really was.
She also remembered Parton’s advice after watching her cry during a performance: “Music is escapism. Let them cry. Get through it.”
Cyrus also reflected on performing with Parton during the 'Miley’s New Year’s Eve Party' TV special in 2023, where they sang 'I Will Always Love You.'
After Parton’s death, Cyrus shared a tribute on Instagram, calling her “Aunt Dolly” and writing that one of their last conversations was about “music and metamorphosis.”
Indeed, Parton’s influence stretched far beyond country music, reaching film, television, philanthropy, and generations of fans. From her 1967 debut album to '9 to 5' (1980), Dollywood, and decades of music, Dolly Parton will forever be one of entertainment’s most beloved figures. Click on to find out more about her life and legacy.