Paul McCartney Honors ‘Magnificent Star’ Dolly Parton

The former Beatle said there was "no greater honor" than working with the country legend on her cover of "Let It Be"

Paul McCartney paid tribute to Dolly Parton and her “unrivaled” songwriting, singing, and philanthropic efforts in a tribute to the late country legend on Instagram.

The post featured some photos from the time McCartney and his family met Parton and her old performing partner Porter Wagoner during a trip to the Grand Ole Opry in the mid-Seventies. At the time, Parton was already a budding star with Wagoner, about to launch her solo career, and, as McCartney remembered her, “so bubbly and full of life.” 

“The magnificent star Dolly Parton has died and it is so sad,” McCartney wrote, adding, “Her songwriting, her singing, and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly. She was a very clever business woman who understood the value of music and, most importantly, the effect that she had on the people of the world.” 

Along with their mid-Seventies meeting, McCartney and Parton crossed paths again when the she recorded the Beatles’ “Let It Be” for her 2023 album, Rockstar. Both McCartney and Ringo Starr featured on the track, too, as did Peter Frampton and Mick Fleetwood.

“There was no greater honor for me than to have her sing my song ‘Let It Be’ and, even though I only made a small contribution to it, I am so honored that she did it,” McCartney wrote of the collaboration. “I am so proud to have known her and admire her unique talents.”

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McCartney closed writing, “Thanks Dolly for the beautiful music you gave me and the whole world. We will always love you, god bless and rest in peace. You were the best.”

Parton died Tuesday, Aug. 25, at the age 80. An official cause of death has not yet been revealed, but Parton had been dealing with a series of health issues over the past several months. Along with McCartney, tributes to Parton have poured in from her innumerable peers and admirers, including Kacey Musgraves, Reba McEntire, Maren Morris, Jack White, Sheryl Crow, and Maggie Rogers.