Jack White paid tribute to Dolly Parton at his show in London last night by performing a rousing rendition of ‘Jolene’. Watch below.
The singer-songwriter took to the stage at the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith last night (Tuesday August 25), shortly after the news of the country icon’s death, aged 80.
White, who is currently out on a UK and Ireland tour, paid his respects early on in the set with his cover of Parton’s classic 1973 track ‘Jolene’.
According to Setlist.FM, the performance marked the first time the musician had played his version of the song since 2007. His former band The White Stripes frequently covered ‘Jolene’, and released their take as the B-side to their 2000 single ‘Hello Operator’. A live recording of the cover appears on the duo’s 2004 live film Under Blackpool Lights.
Earlier, White shared an old black-and-white photograph of Parton on his Instagram page. “Instant Sainthood,” he wrote in the caption, paying his respects to the legendary artist.
The White Stripes and White’s label, Third Man Records, also posted a joint tribute featuring the duo’s rendition of ‘Jolene’. “Dolly’s legacy goes far beyond the music,” the message read.
“For decades, she’s used her voice, her success, and her heart to make a difference. From the Imagination Library putting millions of books into children’s hands to supporting education, literacy, disaster relief, and communities in need.”
It continued: “An incredible artist, philanthropist, advocate, and human being. Thank you, Dolly, for a lifetime of giving back and making the world a little brighter. Rest in peace 🦋🤍.”
Back in 2016, Parton hinted at a potential collaboration with White, saying: “I love him to death. [The White Stripes] did one of the greatest versions ever of ‘Jolene’ […] I think we would make some beautiful music together.” Speaking to NME in 2019, she told us: “I love Jack White and he’s always running after me to produce a record.”
Parton’s team has confirmed that the singer passed away following “a brief battle with cancer”, saying she was “surrounded by loved ones”.
Tributes to the star have poured in from the music world and beyond. The likes of Elton John, Paul McCartney, Taylor Swift, Mick Jagger, Debbie Harry, Eminem and Miley Cyrus (Parton’s goddaughter) are among the other major artists to have shared messages.
Meanwhile, Glastonbury boss Emily Eavis remembered Parton’s historic Legends Slot performance at the 2014 festival. “There was a vast crowd in the field for her slot, the sun shone, and when she walked out on to the Pyramid Stage she reigned supreme,” she said. “It was just magic. Thank you for it all, Dolly.”
In her family’s statement confirming her death, they wrote: “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.”
In an update published last week, Parton told fans that she was dealing with issues she had neglected while caring for her husband of 58 years, Carl Dean, before his death last year. “Seriously, though, even though I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’,” she said.
This March, the singer made her first public appearance in several months, delivering a keynote speech at Dollywood. “I just kind of got worn down and worn out, grieving over Carl and a lot of other little things going on,” she said.
“I just got myself kind of where I needed to build myself back up spiritually, emotionally, and physically. But, all is good. It didn’t slow me down.”
The NME obituary for Parton concludes: “As we all reel from Dolly Parton’s death, that glorious 2014 Glastonbury set may prove a balm. Introducing ‘Coat Of Many Colors’, her 1971 country hit about a patchwork coat sewn by her mother, this humble ‘farmer’s daughter’ paid tribute to her family’s love and resilience. Resplendent in her rhinestone suit, she embodied both qualities as a unifying icon. The world has become more divided since that set, but everyone will always love Dolly.”
In other news, Jack White is offering students discounted tickets to his current UK and Ireland tour. He is out on the road in support of his latest solo album, ‘Frozen Charlotte’, which was released last month. Find any remaining tickets here.
