Miley Cyrus paid tribute to her late godmother and country icon Dolly Parton onstage at the Hollywood Bowl Friday as she performed her first major show in years.
The “Bass Persuades” singer began by sharing memories with Parton, telling the audience she was partly inspired to play the venue because it was where she saw her godmother perform.
“Like so many things Dolly did that I didn’t understand at the time, sitting here with you all right now, feeling her all around me, knowing that she’s right here beside me every day, all the time, more than she could be when she was here, I feel her more than ever,” she said, getting emotional. “And knowing that I get to share this story with you all, it makes that night very worth it. This memory is gold to me. Me and Dolly, we are eternal. Nothing in this life could ever tear us apart. And I’m going to see her again, and I can’t fucking wait because I miss her.”
Cyrus then performed “Jolene,” the classic country song Parton first released in 1974. “Some of the greatest music that we have today was written, produced and performed by my aunt Dolly,” she said. “This is one of those moments.”
Parton died Aug. 25 after a “brief battle” with cancer. The family’s official obituary said, “A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
Following her death, Cyrus shared an emotional tribute to Instagram. “The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share. Our most sacred moments were private and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts,” Cyrus wrote. “What I KNOW is Dolly would want me to feel it, write a song about it, and then continue on and be strong. I have an angel by my side. I always have. One of our last conversations was about music and metamorphosis.”