Kacey Musgraves Reflects on How Beloved Dolly Parton Was: Like ‘Mister Rogers Wearing Rhinestones’

"I think probably the closest thing we have to American royalty," the star said of the country icon in a new interview. Kacey Musgraves performs onstage at The 61st Academy of Country Music Awards held at MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 17, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Rich Polk / Dick Clark Productions Kacey Musgraves has often spoke of the inspiration she takes from the life and career of late music icon Dolly Parton, and she recently told People about her memories of working with Parton. Explore See latest videos, charts and news “I was lucky to get to be around her several times, and each time I was just like, ‘What do I say?’” Musgraves recalled during an interview with People, whose latest cover Musgraves graces. “She was exactly like you would think that she would be — such humility, so humble, sense of humor, fun, so professional, really warm. You could see someone like that and understand how they could be closed off and jaded, but she was anything but that.” Musgraves and Parton had performed together at the Grammys in 2019. Musgraves, who honored the late icon with a performance of “I Will Always Love You” at the MTV Video Music Awards, also spoke of the depth of loss people felt after Parton’s passing on Aug. 25 at age 80. “I think losing Dolly was a collective grief, and it really showed us how starved we are for a really true matriarch in that sense,” Musgraves said. “And she’s been with us for so long. She’s almost like Mister Rogers, but like, times a billion in a way. Mister Rogers wearing rhinestones. It was amazing to see how beloved she was and I think probably the closest thing we have to American royalty.” “She bridged a lot of worlds for people,” Musgraves continued. “Willie [Nelson] does the same thing. I even think Snoop Dogg does the same thing. You know what I mean? There’s certain people that come along, that are that connector for a lot. It’s common ground for people. And so I think losing her felt extra sad at a time where it feels like a lot of people are at odds.” Musgraves even recalled how she changed one particular habit just for Parton when they met. “I think the only time I’ve probably ever been really, really on time in my life was doing something with Dolly. I was like, ‘I’m not being late for that!’” Musgraves also opened up to People about making her new album Middle of Nowhere and how her personal life inspired it. The set is up for album of the year at the upcoming CMA Awards, where the musician has five total nominations ahead of the Nov. 18 ceremony. Watch Musgraves discuss Dolly, and see her People cover below: Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox Sign Up