Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has honored the late American country music legend Dolly Parton. He said her greatness went beyond her music.
Obi shared this on his X handle on Wednesday after Parton passed away at the age of 80.
He explained that Parton’s lasting legacy included not just her music, fame, records, awards, and wealth, but also the person she remained through it all.
"Dolly Parton’s greatness, to me, goes far beyond her extraordinary music. It is in the person she remained despite the fame, wealth, and success," Obi said.
He mentioned that Parton grew up in poverty in rural Tennessee. She came from a big family with very little material wealth but was rich in love, faith, resilience, and family values.
"She never seemed to forget those beginnings. Instead, she carried them into her music and her life," he added.
Obi pointed out that Parton’s songs touched many lives because she sang about love, heartbreak, hardship, loneliness, hope, and the struggles of everyday people.
"Her music gave dignity to people who were often overlooked."
He also highlighted Parton’s kindness and generosity, especially towards children, the less fortunate, and those in need.
"Her compassion seemed to flow naturally from her upbringing. Even at the height of her success, she retained a remarkable warmth, humility, and generosity, particularly toward children, the poor, and those in need," he said.
Obi admired Parton not just for her music but also for staying true to her roots despite her success.
"I admire Dolly Parton not simply because she became a great musician, but because success never made her forget where she came from. She turned her humble beginnings into music (Coat of Many Colors) that comforted millions and a life that continues to inspire."
He described her compassion as her greatest legacy.
"For me, that is her greatest song: the sound of a good heart that never forgot its roots."
"May God Almighty, who made her such a compassionate soul, grant her soul eternal rest," he added.
Parton, who rose from humble beginnings in Tennessee, became one of country music’s most celebrated singer-songwriters. She reportedly died at the age of 80.
Her career lasted over six decades, during which she sold more than 100 million records worldwide. She became known as the "Queen of Country."
She was famous for hits like "Jolene," "9 to 5," and "I Will Always Love You," as well as her charitable work, including the Dollywood Foundation’s Imagination Library, which promotes childhood literacy.
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