Eminem Reveals Heartfelt Letter From Dolly Parton

Eminem posted a tribute to Dolly Parton following her death on Tuesday at the age of 80. The rapper called the country legend a “superstar in every sense” and also shared a letter she penned him several years ago.

In the letter, written after Eminem was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, Parton congratulated the artist on the honor and praised his performance that night. In her note, Parton also encouraged him to continued creating work that inspires others.

“Even though I don’t know a lot about rap music, I’ve come to know that you are the very best at it,” wrote Parton. “Aside from that I hope what I have to say will not seem weird or strange to you but I have always felt some unexplained connection to you like I know you somehow. I had hoped to meet you at the show but you know how nuts those things are, personally I hate ’em and I missed my chance but maybe someday we’ll meet.”

The country icon continued, “In the meantime, keep doing what you’re doing because you do it so well and no matter how complex your world may be just know you are very special and touch people in ways you don’t even know.”

Alongside the letter posted on social media, Eminem wrote in the caption: “I’m sorry we never got a chance to meet, but getting this note from Dolly really had a an impact on me. She definitely didn’t have to take the time to do it. Even for a kid who mostly listened to rap music, she was an icon. A superstar in every sense. Rest easy Dolly. And thank you for the kind words.”