Dolly Parton has spoken out about the loss of her close friend and singing partner Kenny Rogers, as celebrities from around the world come together to remember the late country star.
Sharing a tearful video on social media Dolly, 74, spoke of her love for Kenny after it was revealed that the mutiple Grammy winner had died on March 20 at the age of 81.
“You never know how much you love somebody until they’re gone. I’ve had so many wonderful years and wonderful times with my friend Kenny, but above all the music and the success I loved him as a wonderful man and a true friend,” the Jolene superstar captioned her post.
In the video that she recorded alongside the touching caption, Dolly revealed that she couldn’t believe it when she heard the news this morning.
“I know that Kenny is in a better place than we are today,” she went on to say as she fought back tears.
In a nod to the coronavirus currently spreading around the world, the legendary singer then said: “I’m pretty sure he’s going to be talking to God… and he’s going to be asking him to spread some lightness on this dark.”
At one point referring to themselves as 'special friends,' Dolly and Kenny shared a lifelong friendship as well as a flourishing singing journey ever since they released their first duet Islands in the Stream in 1983.
There has also been an outpouring of touching tributes from other stars as the world reflects upon the music and talents of Kenny.
Among other country stars to pay their respects to the late talent, William Lee Golden took to Twitter in the early hours of this morning to share his thoughts on the country music world's loss.
“So sad, Rest In Peace @_KennyRogers thanks for all the friendship, & wonderful memories. Until we meet again Sir. God bless.”
British legend Boy George also reflected on the time when he played Islands in the Stream for George Michael.
“Thanks Kenny Rogers. R.I.P. I played this 45 in the chill out room at a rave called Pushca and George Michael was swinging to it. Fond memories!” he wrote whilst linking to the famous tune.
British comedian Matt Lucas also wrote a simple message as he reflected on Kenny’s ‘beautiful’ music.
“Thank you Kenny Rogers for your beautiful music” he shared with his 1 million followers.
The sometimes outspoken TV presenter Piers Morgan also led tributes this morning to the late singer.
“RIP Kenny Rogers, 81. What incredibly sad news. One of the all-time great country music stars & an utterly charming man,” he recounted.
Kenny and his music touched the lives of listeners around the globe during a music career that spanned over six decades.
As tributes continue to pour in for him and his family, fans will be - as written on the GRAMMYs official page - “forever grateful to the three-time GRAMMY Award winner for everything he gave music.”
