Shinedown frontman Brent Smith has joined musicians from over the world in honoring the late country music icon and actress Dolly Parton. In an interview Brent Smith talked about Dolly Partons deep worldwide legacy how Dolly Parton inspired his early music and the lasting mark Dolly Parton left on the world.
Dolly Partons death has led to tributes from musicians of all styles such as messages from Kelly Osbourne, Joan Jett and a live tribute from Jack White.. The news also caused disagreement in the rock community, which ended with Bad Wolves guitarist AJ Rebollo quitting after a planned cover was released.
Brent Smith Reflects on Dolly Partons Legacy and Country Roots
During an interview posted on August 27 on the Australian Musician YouTube channel Brent Smith talked about his country music roots and his respect for Dolly Parton. Born in Tennessee Brent Smith remembered how his grandmother raised him by playing classic country stars from that time such as Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Lucinda Williams.
Brent Smith said Dolly Parton has a reach calling Dolly Parton a person "beloved by the entire planet" whose influence will be honored for many years. He also mentioned the death of actor Tim Curry, who also died at age 80 around the same time.
Brent Smiths remarks came after a tribute posted by Shinedown guitarist Zach Myers on the bands social media. Shinedown had earlier shown their country influence when they first played their country-rock song "Searchlight" from the 2026 album Ei8ht at the Grand Ole Opry in October 2025.
Global Tributes Across the Music Community
The death of Dolly Parton was officially announced by PR firm True Public Relations, which included a video message from Dolly Partons nephew, Bryan Seaver. Dolly Parton is well known for songs like "I Will Love You" and movies such as 9 to 5 and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Dolly Parton was remembered fondly by artists:
Bad Wolves Controversy Leads to AJ Rebollos Exit
During the tributes a disagreement grew inside the rock band Wolves. An August 28 press release said Bad Wolves would release their cover of "Jolene" on August 31. That song was first planned to include Dolly Partons voice before Dolly Parton died.
AJ Rebollo, the guitarist announced that he is quitting the group. He said he was upset by the record labels decisions even though the other band members disagreed. AJ Rebollo said that the band did not want to release the song after Dolly Parton died, to avoid looking like they were using Dolly Partons death, for profit. That made AJ Rebollo decide to leave.
Dolly Partons amazing career and bright spirit leave a legacy that will keep inspiring musicians of all ages and all styles.
