Jack White Honors Dolly Parton with Emotional Performance of ‘Jolene’ at London Show

Jack White paid heartfelt homage to late icon Dolly Parton by performing a powerful rendition of her classic song ‘Jolene’ during his concert at the Eventim Apollo in London. The performance, which marked the first time he had played the track since 2007, came shortly after news of Parton’s death at age 80. White’s cover of the 1973 hit, previously featured on The White Stripes’ 2000 B-side ‘Hello Operator,’ resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. The tribute extended beyond music, as White shared a black-and-white photo of Parton on Instagram, calling him ‘Instant Sainthood.’ His label, Third Man Records, also released a joint tribute highlighting Parton’s legacy as an artist and philanthropist, noting her work through initiatives like the Imagination Library. Tributes poured in from global stars including Elton John, Taylor Swift, and Miley Cyrus (Parton’s goddaughter), while Glastonbury organizer Emily Eavis recalled her 2014 performance at the festival. Parton’s family emphasized her enduring impact as a unifying force, with her final public appearance in March 2026 marking a recovery from personal struggles. The article underscores how White’s tribute encapsulated both her musical and humanitarian legacy.