Dolly Parton Remembers Meeting Queen Elizabeth II

In 1977, country music legend Dolly Parton performed for Queen Elizabeth II, a meeting that brought together country royalty with the actual kind. Despite her fame, Parton admitted to feeling a bit nervous before meeting the queen.

Reflecting on the experience, Parton shared her childhood fascination with royalty and the opulence associated with kings and queens. “I remember being captivated by all their extravagant clothing and the idea of living in a world filled with riches,” she said. But when it came time to meet the queen, she found Elizabeth to be “very sweet.”

Parton also noted that the queen seemed relaxed about the formalities. “It was clear that she didn’t mind if things went awry,” she recalled. “I was terrified that I might not curtsy properly, but she was warm and gracious.” The encounter left her in awe, describing it as “amazing” to meet a queen.

After Parton’s recent passing, British broadcaster Helena Chard drew a parallel between her legacy and that of the late queen, calling both women “strong and resilient.” Chard remarked that Parton’s influence shone in the royal family, noting how her music brought comfort to them, even saying in a light-hearted tone that “King Charles is probably enjoying a dance in her memory.”

Parton’s performance was part of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebration in Glasgow, Scotland, marking 25 years of Elizabeth’s reign. During this event, she sang “You Are,” from her 1977 album. Chard described this as one of Parton’s most magical moments, emphasizing the mutual admiration between Parton and the queen.

Interestingly, Parton had no idea she was set to perform for the queen until she was already on her way to Scotland. Her excitement was palpable when she found out, recalling how she jumped up and down with joy on the plane.

Following the queen’s death, Parton honored her in a heartfelt message, acknowledging the grace and strength Elizabeth carried throughout her life. Additionally, the royal family paid tribute to Parton this week by having the Band of the Coldstream Guards play “9 to 5” during their Changing of the Guard ceremony.