Dolly Parton was “honored and flattered” that Lil Nas X covered her hit song “Jolene” during a recent radio performance.
The “Montero” rapper delivered his own take on the signature 1973 track for BBC Radio One’s “Live Lounge,” telling NME: “I chose this because I feel like this song is kind of beautifully sad. I like the little country twang, so I was like, ‘Let me try this out’.”
Now, Dolly has responded to the performance, insisting she was thrilled with his interpretation of the classic tune.
I was so excited when someone told me that Lil Nas X had done my song #Jolene. I had to find it and listen to it immediately…and it's really good. Of course, I love him anyway. I was surprised and I'm honored and flattered. I hope he does good for both of us. Thank you @LilNasX https://t.co/w7vJWGypOp
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) September 29, 2021
“I was so excited when someone told me that Lil Nas X had done my song ‘Jolene’. I had to find it and listen to it immediately… and it’s really, really good,” Dolly wrote on Instagram, alongside a picture of herself and the Old Town Road star posing backstage at an event.
“Of course, I love him anyway. I was surprised and I’m honored and flattered. I hope he does good for both of us. Thank you @lilnasx.”
Lil Nas X then re-posted Dolly’s message on his Instagram page, writing: “H########.”