Country music icon Dolly Parton recently reflected on a highlight of her early career: performing for Queen Elizabeth II at the Royal Variety Show in Glasgow, Scotland, during the monarch’s 1977 Silver Jubilee. In a 2023 interview, Parton said she was a child fascinated by royalty, but meeting the Queen proved to be a “very sweet” and “warm” experience.
Royal Variety Show, 1977
The Royal Variety Show, a long‑standing tradition that showcases entertainers before the British monarch, featured Parton alongside the Jackson 5, Scottish singer Sydney Devine, and English comedian Frankie Howerd. Parton described the performance as “one of the biggest thrills of my life,” noting that despite the strict protocol—bowing, curtsying, and formalities—the Queen’s demeanor was relaxed and forgiving of any missteps.
Parton’s memories of the Queen
“I was scared to death that I was not going to know how to curtsy, that I wasn’t going to bend right,” Parton recalled. “She was just very warm, very sweet, and I could tell she was a very giving person. Meeting a queen was amazing.” The singer emphasized that the Queen’s kindness left a lasting impression, shaping Parton’s view of royalty as approachable rather than distant.
Tributes after the Queen’s passing
When Queen Elizabeth II died in 2022, Parton posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, writing, “I had the honor of meeting and performing for Queen Elizabeth II on my trip to London in 1977. She carried herself with grace and strength her entire life. May she Rest in Peace. My thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time.” The post underscored Parton’s respect for the late monarch and highlighted the enduring impact of that 1977 encounter.
Recent UK visit and royal invitation
Three years ago, Parton traveled to the United Kingdom to promote her album Rockstar. While there, she was invited to tea with Catherine, Princess of Wales. Parton said she felt “so bad” about declining, noting the invitation was “very sweet and nice” and expressing hope to accept a future royal invitation.
Legacy of the 1977 performance
Parton’s recollection adds a personal dimension to the historic Silver Jubilee celebrations, reminding fans that even global icons share humble moments of gratitude and faith. Her story illustrates how a brief encounter with a world leader can become a treasured memory, reinforcing the timeless appeal of music, humility, and respectful cross‑cultural exchange.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
