Home News “She’s a living saint.” — On her 80th birthday, Dolly Parton doesn’t need to step into the spotlight for the entire music world to rise in unison. Instead, it’s the rock gods who step forward — voices roughened by decades of amps and anthems, suddenly softened as they sing her songs back to her. From arena legends to metal rebels, men who built careers on volume and rebellion pause to honor a woman whose music crossed every line they thought existed. They don’t shout. They don’t reinvent her. They simply play. And in that moment, it becomes clear: this isn’t just a tribute. It’s rock royalty kneeling, guitar in hand, to thank the woman who taught them how to feel…. WATCH BELOW 👇👇

“She’s a living saint.” — On her 80th birthday, Dolly Parton doesn’t need to step into the spotlight for the entire music world to rise in unison. Instead, it’s the rock gods who step forward — voices roughened by decades of amps and anthems, suddenly softened as they sing her songs back to her. From arena legends to metal rebels, men who built careers on volume and rebellion pause to honor a woman whose music crossed every line they thought existed. They don’t shout. They don’t reinvent her. They simply play. And in that moment, it becomes clear: this isn’t just a tribute. It’s rock royalty kneeling, guitar in hand, to thank the woman who taught them how to feel…. WATCH BELOW 👇👇

News Admin · January 22, 2026 · Comments off

“She’s a living saint.” — On her 80th birthday, rock gods, metal rebels, and pop legends break their silence about Dolly Parton… and one shared moment has fans wondering if this was a tribute — or a quiet farewell?

Country legend, Dolly Parton, turns 80 today (Monday, January 19). In a new feature at The Telegraph, stars pay tribute to Parton.

Peter Frampton: “I just wanted to wish Dolly the happiest 80th birthday ever, and Bigsby, my dog, does too. We both wanted to say what a thrill it was that you chose one of my songs [“Baby, I Love Your Way”] to put on your rock album, and to sing with you was unbelievable. You actually upped my game, because I had to compete with you. It was so wonderful, so thank you so much again. It was a thrill.”

Blondie’s Debbie Harry: “Dolly, it’s truly an honour that you loved ‘Heart Of Glass’ enough to include it on your Rockstar (2023) album. Wishing you all my love and the happiest of birthdays. Thank you for your endless dedication and love for music – it’s inspired so many of us. P.S. I still want to visit Dollywood! My favourite Dolly song: It is difficult to pick just one favourite, but ‘Jolene’ has always been up there.”

Judas Priest’s Rob Halford: “Dolly is a champion for women, giving voice to empowerment at all levels. I still can’t get over the fact that I, a kid from a council estate, who watched her on Sunday Night at the London Palladium, one day stood by her side singing ‘Jolene’ – then sang ‘Bygones’ with her on her Rockstar (2023) album. In my eyes she’s a living saint who has given her life to us with her music and philanthropic causes. Everything about her is as real as it gets, including tickling my beard! My favourite Dolly song: I have always loved ‘Blue Valley Songbird’ for her powerful lyrics that, in this case, refer to dark experiences.”

Judas Priest's Rob Halford reflects on his 'fanboy' moment with Dolly Parton

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo: “Happy birthday to our Capricorn sister! Still beautiful inside and out – 80 looks good on you! Our favourite Dolly songs: Neil’s is ‘Jolene,’ while Pat’s is ‘I Will Always Love You.’”