Miley Cyrus delivered a deeply emotional tribute to her late godmother, Dolly Parton, during her Friday night performance at the Hollywood Bowl.
Before launching into Parton’s country classic “Jolene,” Cyrus became overcome with emotion while sharing a cherished memory of the music icon.
Cyrus told the crowd that the only time she had watched Parton perform live was at the Hollywood Bowl. Although Parton encouraged her to come onstage, Cyrus chose to remain in the audience and take in the show as a fan.
Looking back on that night, Cyrus said she has felt Parton’s presence even more strongly since the singer died in August at age 80.
“Like so many things Dolly did, that I didn’t understand it at the time, sitting here with you all right now, feeling her all around me, knowing that she’s right here beside me everyday, all the time, more than she could be when she was here,” Cyrus told the audience. “I feel her, now more than ever.”
Through tears, she added, “Me and Dolly, we are eternal. Nothing in this life could tear us apart. And I’m gonna see her again.”
The Hollywood Bowl appearance marked Cyrus’ return to the stage after the September release of her 10th studio album, “Bass Persuades.”
When she announced the album and concert, Cyrus said she was thrilled to perform for the first time at the landmark Los Angeles venue.
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“It’s been a while. The Hollywood Bowl is my favorite place to experience music and see my favorite artists,” she wrote on Instagram. “I’ve sat in those seats many times, but I’ve never taken the stage. LA is my heart and I’m bringing it home.”
“Bass Persuades” comes after Cyrus’ 2025 album “Something Beautiful” and her 2023 release “Endless Summer Vacation,” which included the Grammy-winning single “Flowers.”
Earlier this year, Cyrus also marked the 20th anniversary of “Hannah Montana” with a special celebrating the Disney Channel series that helped make her a star.
Her Hollywood Bowl tribute followed a moving message Cyrus posted on social media soon after Parton’s death.
“The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share. Our most sacred moments were private and they’ll stay there behind the stage
