Following the death of country music legend Dolly Parton at age 80, Canadian singer-songwriter Shania Twain has shared a heartfelt tribute to her longtime mentor and hero. Twain posted a video clip from a 2003 appearance on the Oprah Winfrey Show where the two artists performed together, describing Parton as “pure light sent from heaven” and acknowledging the significant impact she had on her career and personal life.
The 2003 television special marked a significant moment for Twain, who grew up in Timmins, Ontario, and admired Parton’s pioneering role in the music industry. During that performance, the two collaborated on Parton’s 1971 classic “Coat of Many Colors,” a duet Twain had long dreamed of performing. At the time, Twain expressed her deep admiration, calling Parton her musical and personal hero and someone she had always aspired to emulate.
In her recent social media tribute, Twain reflected on Parton’s influence as both a songwriting teacher and role model of grace and humility. She emphasized that despite the loss, memories of Parton’s warmth and smile would continue to inspire her throughout her life. The special Oprah episode that featured their duet also showcased performances from other female artists influenced by Parton, including Melissa Etheridge and Alison Krauss.
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
About the Author
