On February 8, 2019, pop superstar Miley Cyrus took the stage at the MusiCares Person of the Year gala in Los Angeles to pay tribute to her beloved mentor, the iconic country music legend Dolly Parton.
Parton, who has been a long-time friend and collaborator of Cyrus’ family, was honored by the Recording Academy’s charitable foundation for her remarkable contributions to the music industry and her unwavering commitment to philanthropy.
As Cyrus stepped up to the microphone, the packed audience erupted in thunderous applause, eagerly anticipating the young artist’s heartfelt homage to the woman who has profoundly shaped her own musical journey.
“Dolly Parton has not only been a role model for me my entire life, but she is the reason I am the artist I am today,” Cyrus told the crowd, her voice brimming with admiration and reverence. “From the first time I heard her voice on ‘Jolene’ to getting to sing with her on ‘Islands in the Stream,’ Dolly has been a constant source of inspiration and guidance.”
The 26-year-old singer went on to recount the countless ways in which Parton had nurtured her talent and encouraged her to embrace her authentic self, even during the most tumultuous periods of her career.
“Dolly has always been there for me, not just as a mentor in the music industry, but as a friend and confidante,” Cyrus said, her eyes shining with emotion. “She has taught me the importance of staying true to who you are, no matter what anyone else says.”
As Cyrus performed a stirring rendition of Parton’s iconic hit “Jolene,” the audience was captivated by the palpable chemistry and mutual adoration between the two artists. Parton, beaming with pride, enthusiastically sang and clappedaong, underscoring the deep, familial bond that has endured between them over the years.
In the aftermath of the electrifying performance, social media was abuzz with praise for Cyrus’ heartfelt tribute, with fans commending the young star’s unwavering respect and admiration for her musical idol.
“Miley’s tribute to Dolly was absolutely stunning,” one fan gushed. “You could feel the love and admiration radiating from every note. It was a true celebration of two incredible women who have inspired so many.”
Another commenter echoed this sentiment, writing, “Miley has always been so open about the impact Dolly has had on her life and career. Seeing them perform together was truly magical – a true passing of the torch from one legend to the next.”
As the MusiCares Person of the Year gala came to a close, Cyrus’ moving homage to Parton stood as a poignant reminder of the power of mentorship, the enduring influence of icons, and the transformative impact that music can have on the human spirit.
