The death of Dolly Parton has hit the Canadian music community hard, with artists remembering the country icon as a mentor, hero and source of comfort.
Parton died Tuesday at 80 after a battle with cancer, her publicist said.
One of the most personal tributes came from Shania Twain, who shared a clip on Instagram of the pair performing Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors” in 2003, saying it’s a moment she’ll “cherish forever.”
Twain called the Tennessee singer-songwriter her “songwriting teacher and hero of grace and humility,” adding “there is a hole in my heart but the joy of just the thought of her smile will continue to fill me with inspiration for as long as I live.”
Céline Dion also honoured Parton on social media, writing that the “9 to 5” singer was “pure light, with a kind heart and a generous spirit.” She thanked Parton for the music, laughter and love she gave the world, closing with a nod to her signature ballad: “We will always love you.”
Canadian country singer Orville Peck got choked up during his London concert on Tuesday while praising Parton for making him feel welcome as a gay man in country music.
“I’m a little bit of a mess right now,” he told the audience. “She really stood for kindness and I think that’s something that is really lacking in the world these days… I feel we can always remember what she stood for.”
He added that he doesn’t use the word “hero” much these days, but Dolly was his.
“I think as a gay man coming into country music and feeling sort of alone, the thing that always felt comforting is, like, just knowing Dolly existed in country… made me feel like maybe I had a friend there.”
Peck then performed a cover of “I Will Always Love You,” saying: “We love Dolly and this is for her.”
Anne Murray also took to Instagram to remember her longtime friend and collaborator.
“We have lost an angel,” Murray wrote. “The world has been blessed to experience her talent, her joy, her kindness and goodness. Dolly was the best! What a legacy she has left!”
Murray appeared as a guest on Parton’s variety television show “Dolly!” in 1976 and remained connected to her over the years.
Earlier this year, Murray recorded a heartfelt birthday message for Parton’s 80th birthday, thanking the “Jolene” singer for her kindness.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 26, 2026.
Alex Nino Gheciu, The Canadian Press
