Eminem has paid tribute to Dolly Parton by sharing a personal letter she sent him after his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

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Parton died on Tuesday, August 25, aged 80, with her death announced by her nephew and head of security, Bryan Seaver.

Following the news, Eminem posted the 2022 letter on X and revealed that although the pair never met, her words had stayed with him.

“I’m sorry we never got a chance to meet, but getting this note from Dolly really had a an impact on me,” he wrote. “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.”

The letter was sent after Eminem was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and saw Parton congratulate him on the achievement.

She wrote: “Marshall (Eminem),

“Congratulations on your induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Your performance was amazing and everybody said so. Even though I don’t know a lot about rap music, I’ve come to know that you are the very best at it. 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. 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.

“With love & respect,
Dolly Parton”

Parton’s death was announced in a video shared by Seaver, who said she had asked him years earlier to make the announcement when the time came.

Her team later issued a statement paying tribute to her life, music and charity work.

“A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

“Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”

Countless tributes have flooded social media, including a poignant post of fellow country music star Billy Ray Cyrus, who wrote to his fans: “I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start. Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms.

“In 1992, I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her. In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, ‘Honey, this trash sells records!’

“Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart. I will always love her in the same way ….. with my whole heart … and I always will.”

President Donald Trump also paid tribute following Parton’s death.

He wrote: “Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away.

“This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.”

Trump also announced that US flags would be lowered to half mast for one week.

“In her honour, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”

Our thoughts continue to go out to Parton’s family, friends, and fans at this time.

Featured image credit: Instagram/Eminem/DollyParton (screenshots)