13 Times Iconic Black Entertainers Shared the Spotlight With Dolly Parton

There’s no denying country legend Dolly Parton wrote “I Will Always Love You,” which Whitney Houston turned into a generation-defining hit, and Beyoncé brought Parton into her hit album “Cowboy Carter.” But those weren’t the only times Parton’s career intersected with some of our most iconic Black superstars. As flags continue to fly at half-staff in her honor following her death, the world is still recounting just how far her influence went.

From music legends to Hollywood heavyweights, Parton built meaningful connections with Black entertainers across decades and genres. Here are 13 iconic Black artists and celebrities who rubbed shoulders with one of country music’s most enduring singers.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé brought Dolly Parton into “Cowboy Carter,” featuring her on the “Dolly P” interlude and the song “Tyrant.” She also reimagined Parton’s classic “Jolene,” creating a full-circle moment between two generations of female music icons.

Whitney Houston

@primarywave

We will always love you Dolly and Whitney #dollyparton #whitneyhouston #iwillalwaysloveyou

♬ original sound – Primary Wave – Primary Wave

Whitney Houston recorded Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” for “The Bodyguard” soundtrack in 1992. Her powerhouse rendition became one of the best-selling singles of all time and introduced the country artist’s songwriting to a new audience.

Related: 11 Reasons Why Black Folks Will Always Love Dolly Parton

Dionne Warwick

@dollypartonfanaccount1

Stream the Duet ”Peace Like a River” with Dionne Warwick and Dolly Parton now! #dollyparton #dollywood #icon #countrymusic #gospel #duet #newsong #dionnewarwick #soul #fyp #singersongwriter #musicvideo

♬ Peace Like A River – Dionne Warwick & Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton and Dionne Warwick teamed up for the gospel song “Peace Like a River” in 2023. Parton wrote the song, and the collaboration brought together two legendary voices from country and R&B.

Smokey Robinson

Parton recorded “I Know You by Heart” with Motown legend Smokey Robinson for her 1987 pop album, “Rainbow.” The duet brought Parton’s country sound together with one of R&B and soul music’s most defining voices. The track, released as a single, peaked at number 22 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.

James Ingram

Dolly Parton teamed up with R&B singer James Ingram on “The Day I Fall in Love,” written for the 1993 family comedy film “Beethoven’s 2nd.” The song earned the pair an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.

Patti LaBelle

@theperfectmagazine

Forever Dolly Parton & Patti LaBelle Turn Acrylic Nails Into Musical Instruments (1987) #DollyParton

♬ original sound – The Perfect Magazine

Patti LaBelle appeared on Parton’s 1987 variety series titled “Dolly,” where the two performed together. Their playful performance of “Shortnin’ Bread”—where the two bonded over their famously oversized acrylic nails—remains one of the show’s most memorable moments. They harmonized flawlessly on the spot. LaBelle even took it away with a little solo. “Play it, Patti,” the country artist told her. 

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah co-starred alongside Parton in the 2012 musical comedy “Joyful Noise,” playing women determined to save their small-town church choir. The two also performed together on the film’s soundtrack, giving audiences a Dolly-Latifah musical pairing to go along with their on-screen chemistry.

Keke Palmer

@mariahdarey

Dolly Parton wearing a fitted robe in Joyful Noise #dollyparton #kekepalmer #queenlatifah

♬ original sound – Mat

Keke Palmer also appeared alongside Parton in “Joyful Noise” as Olivia Hill, belting out a cover of a song by the beloved Michael Jackson. Palmer also contributed vocals to the film’s soundtrack, making her another part of Parton’s gospel-meets-Hollywood collabs. Never sacrificing style, folks on TikTok pointed out that in this scene, Parton was the only one to wear a fitted robe (lol).

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

@theladysmithblackmambazo

Ladysmith Black Mambazo would like to take a moment to reflect on the recent and deeply sorrowful passing of the legendary Dolly Parton, a figure whose influence and legacy have transcended genres, cultures, and generations. Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the acclaimed South African vocal group known for their rich harmonies and uplifting spirit, recently expressed their condolences with a simple yet profound message: “Rest in Peace, Dolly Parton.” This heartfelt tribute is a testament to Dolly’s global impact—a reminder of how her music and humanitarian efforts have resonated far beyond the borders of American country music. Dolly Parton was more than just an iconic singer and songwriter. She was a cultural ambassador and philanthropist who touched countless lives worldwide. Her songs, filled with warmth, storytelling, and honesty, reached diverse audiences and connected with people of varying backgrounds. It’s no coincidence that Ladysmith Black Mambazo, who embody unity and peace through their vocal artistry, found common ground and mutual respect in her work. Importantly, Dolly’s connection with Ladysmith Black Mambazo dates back to their collaboration on the 1995 rendition of “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door.” This remarkable partnership brought together two unique musical worlds, blending her heartfelt country music with the group’s unmistakable South African harmonies to create a timeless piece that continues to inspire. Furthermore, in 1996, the group appeared on Dolly Parton’s album Treasures, collaborating on a cover of Cat Stevens’ “Peace Train.” They joined Parton for an appearance on a US network television special in November 1996 to perform the song—an event that showcased the powerful fusion of their talents and shared commitment to music with a message of peace. The passing of Dolly Parton undeniably marks the end of an era. Yet, her legacy is immortal—living on through her unforgettable songs and her extensive humanitarian initiatives that have bettered lives globally. As we remember Dolly, let us honor her extraordinary contributions to music and society and continue to cherish the joy and inspiration she brought to millions of people around the world.

♬ original sound – Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Dolly Parton collaborated with the South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo on a rendition of “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door.” When the country star heard the voices of the choir, she had to get them on the record, noting her desire to bring people together. “When we met, I thought ‘What a special man,’” Parton said of the lead singer.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey also appeared as a guest on Parton’s 1987 ABC variety show, giving the two powerhouses a chance to share the spotlight while singing “This Little Light of Mine.” Years later, the pair reunited on “Oprah” in 2010, where they reminisced on the appearance and enjoyed the classic clip together.

Gladys Knight

The “Queen of Country” paid tribute to one of our biggest soul legends, Gladys Knight, by performing Knight’s classic “Midnight Train to Georgia” on her television special in the 1970s. Knight later remembered Parton as an “ultimate role model” for women in and outside the music industry.

Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X put his own spin on “Jolene” in 2021, giving the country classic a distinctly hip-hop-era makeover. Parton later shared a photo with the rapper and celebrated him publicly – showing the mutual respect between two artists who challenged traditional ideas about genre.

Charley Pride

Dolly Parton and country music pioneer Charley Pride joined forces on “God’s Coloring Book,” a gospel song featured on Pride’s 2006 album “Pride and Joy.” The collaboration brought together two country legends who both used their music to draw from their faith and Southern roots.