(August 27, 2026) DETROIT, Mich. — The National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame Foundation joins people around the world in mourning the passing of Dolly Parton, the legendary singer, songwriter, entertainer and humanitarian who died peacefully in Nashville on August 25, 2026. She was 80.
Founder and Chairman LaMont “ShowBoat” Robinson extended heartfelt condolences to Parton’s family, friends and millions of admirers on behalf of the Hall of Fame’s Board of Trustees and the worldwide R&B community.
“I have admired Dolly Parton since I was a kid,” Robinson said. “No matter how famous she became, she always appeared genuine, humble and connected to everyday people. Dolly did not build walls between musical genres—she built bridges.”
Parton’s influence reached far beyond country music. She wrote and first recorded “I Will Always Love You,” which Whitney Houston transformed into one of the defining vocal recordings of the modern era. In 2024, Beyoncé reimagined Parton’s classic “Jolene” for the album Cowboy Carter, showing how powerfully Parton’s storytelling crossed generations and genres. She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999 and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
Robinson and the Board of Trustees announced that Dolly Parton will be posthumously inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2027, honoring her as a songwriter, cultural bridge-builder and humanitarian.
“This honor does not take Dolly away from country music—it recognizes all of Dolly,” Robinson said. “When Whitney Houston sang her words and Beyoncé reimagined her story, the world saw how far Dolly’s music could travel. That cultural influence belongs in the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame.”
The Hall of Fame also salutes Parton’s extraordinary service through children’s literacy, education, health care and support for communities in need. The date, location and tribute plans for the 2027 induction ceremony will be announced later.
“Dolly Parton gave the world more than songs,” Robinson concluded. “She gave us courage, compassion and a beautiful example of how to use success to help others. Her voice may be silent, but her words will keep singing through generations. We will always love you, Dolly.”
