Billy Ray Cyrus reveals precious letter from late legend Dolly Parton
Billy Ray Cyrus reveals a precious handwritten letter from the late Dolly Parton, reflecting on their legendary bond and shared musical history.
In a touching tribute to one of music's greatest icons, singer Billy Ray Cyrus has opened up about his deep bond with the late Dolly Parton. Sharing a piece of history that he considers a "prize possession," Cyrus revealed a handwritten letter sent to him by the legendary singer following their first meeting in 1992.
A treasure kept alongside Johnny Cash
Cyrus took to social media to share the sentimental document, noting that its value is incomparable. He revealed that the letter from Parton holds a place of honor right next to a similar handwritten note from the legendary Johnny Cash.
"To me they go together, Brother Cash and Sister Parton," Cyrus wrote, describing them as the hearts and minds of two of his greatest heroes. He noted that both legends took the time to share their most sincere thoughts with an "ole Kentucky Boy."
The words of an icon
The letter, written just a few weeks after they met in Chicago during the spring of 1992, captures Parton's warmth and encouragement during the early stages of Cyrus's massive fame. At the time, "Achy Breaky Heart" was beginning its meteoric rise, and his album Some Gave All had not yet been released.
In the letter, Parton wrote:
"Billy, I’m glad to be working with you... I’m proud of what’s going on with you. I too think you are special. I wish you even more in the years to come."
She even added a humorous, self-deprecating note about her own nerves during their meeting, stating, "I’m sorry I stammered and blushed when I met you but I’m just like all the other girls these days (just a little older)."
Decades of memories and laughter
The connection between the two spanned over three decades, moving from early collaborations to television specials and even the Hannah Montana era. Cyrus recalled their musical journey, which included performing "Romeo" with Tanya Tucker, Kathy Mattea, and Mary Chapin Carpenter, eventually culminating in their final duet, "Christmas Where We Are."
Beyond the music, Cyrus shared a hilarious anecdote from 1992 regarding the tabloid frenzy of the time. Following rumors of an affair, Cyrus walked into Parton's dressing room to apologize for the gossip. Parton's reaction was quintessentially herself:
- She looked at him, winked, and famously remarked, "Honey, this trash sells records!"
A legacy of joy and integrity
The singer expressed his profound grief following Parton's passing last month after a brief battle with cancer at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Centre in Nashville. He reflected on how she was a constant presence in his life, much like she was for millions of others, appearing in living rooms across the world.
Cyrus concluded his heartfelt tribute by recalling a recent, beautiful message she sent him, expressing her love with her "whole heart." He vowed to hold that same love for her forever, honoring a woman who, according to her representatives, spent her entire career bringing joy, laughter, and hope to everyone she touched.