Dolly Parton’s reported death at 80 prompted widespread tributes from fellow musicians and public figures, with artists choosing to honour her through performances of her songs. The response reflects Parton’s exceptional influence as a country musician, songwriter and philanthropist, as well as the affection she inspired across generations.

Tributes included Harry Styles playing “I Will Always Love You” at Madison Square Garden, Jack White performing a rock version of “Jolene” in London, and John Mayer offering an instrumental guitar rendition of Parton’s signature ballad. Katy Perry praised Parton’s talent and enduring kindness, while Jon Batiste performed the song on piano and Kesha sang “Old Flames (Can’t Hold a Candle To You)”, co-written by her mother; “I Will Always Love You” was originally a 1974 country hit before Whitney Houston’s version spent 14 weeks at No. 1 in the US.