Several rock and metal musicians, including Gene Simmons, Mötley Crüe, and Maynard James Keenan, recently reacted to the passing of music icon Dolly Parton, sharing their tributes on Instagram.
Parton died on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer. A country music legend with six decades of hit-making, songwriting, and philanthropy, she also crossed into rock through her 2023 album Rockstar, her 2022 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, and collaborations such as “Home Sweet Home” with Mötley Crüe.
The musicians paid emotional tributes to Parton, highlighting her legacy, kindness, and collaborations.
Former Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora expressed his admiration for Parton, calling her a close friend and musical partner.
“Dolly, Thee Undisputed Queen of country music. My Shero! I am very proud to call her, my friend and musical partner. She will live on in our hearts forever. All my love… Richie,” Sambora wrote.
Tool frontman Maynard James Keenan shared a humorous and reflective message about Parton’s wisdom.
“Dolly Parton, the wisest of all the angels once said, and I quote, ‘The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.’ Now, I have reached a turning point in my life, a new level of acceptance, if you will, where I can freely admit that I do not have a f*ckin clue what she’s on about,” Keenan wrote. “And within that new moment of clarity, this acceptance of my chronic cluelessness, I had a bit of an unexpected epiphany. That no matter where I go, there I am. And usually the Where of the There is back in county for another round of repeat offender rehabilitation. I am the Physical Manifestation of Parole Violator. Now before my Chauffeurs arrive to Escort me to my inevitable Spa Appt, I will leave you with one more quote from that Angel of Wisdom. Dolly says, ‘I am not offended by all of the dumb blonde jokes because I know I am not dumb… and I also know that I am not blonde.’ Right? But here’s the thing. I, however, am both.”
Ted Nugent also offered a brief message of respect. “RIP Dolly Parton. A life well lived!” Nugent wrote. KISS bassist Gene Simmons recalled his personal interactions with Parton, praising her character. “Very, very sad. She was a sweet and kind soul and I’m proud to say I knew her. And I witnessed she always took time to stop and greet anyone around her. There will never be another Dolly,” Simmons said.
Former Journey singer Steve Perry, who collaborated with Parton on her Rockstar album, expressed his sadness. “I just heard the very sad news about Dolly Parton. I so very much enjoyed working with her on her ‘Rockstar’ record and talking with her. A true timeless legend he will always be. With love, Steve Perry,” Perry wrote.
Kid Rock paid tribute by calling Parton one of the greatest of all time. “Quite simply The G.O.A.T. Thanks for the songs, the laughs, the humility and grace. Without a doubt a woman who God truly has his hands on. Rock on Dolly, baby rock on,” Kid Rock said.
Mötley Crüe released a joint statement reflecting on their collaboration with Parton on “Home Sweet Home.”
“Dolly Parton was not only one of the greatest songwriters of all time, but a bright, shining star who helped change the world for the better. Working with Dolly on ‘Home Sweet Home’ was one of the true highlights of our career. We can still hear her voice saying, ‘Well, how about that, Dolly and Mötley at # 1?’ Thank you for the music, the laughter, the kindness and the inspiration, Dolly. Our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and fans around the world. With love and respect, Mötley Crüe,” the band stated.
These tributes reflect the widespread respect Parton commanded across diverse musical genres.
