“Thank You, Dolly”: Jack White Honors Dolly Parton With a Powerful Rendition of “Jolene” on Stage in London

Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger, Elton John and other music legends are joining fans around the world in honoring the late country music icon Dolly Parton.

Jack White paid tribute to country music legend Dolly Parton during his concert at London’s Eventim Apollo on August 25, performing her beloved 1973 hit “Jolene” in honor of the late singer.

The song has a special connection to White’s musical history. The White Stripes recorded their version of “Jolene” in 2000, initially releasing it as a B-side before issuing a live version as a single in 2004. According to Setlist FM, however, White had not performed the song onstage since 2007.

Parton’s death in Nashville, Tennessee, was announced only hours before White’s performance in London. White, who also calls Nashville home, acknowledged the loss before the concert by sharing a photograph of Parton on Instagram with the simple caption, “Instant Sainthood.”

White’s record label, Third Man Records, also remembered Parton in a heartfelt social media tribute, highlighting the lasting impact she made beyond her music.

The label praised Parton for using her fame and influence to support important causes, including childhood literacy, education, disaster recovery and communities facing hardship.

Third Man described her as an extraordinary musician, philanthropist, advocate and person, while expressing gratitude for the many ways she spent her life helping others and bringing positivity to the world.