“She’s always said this to me: ‘You do you, and I’ll do me, and together we’ll be us,’” said Cyrus in a new interview.
Miley Cyrus’ performance of “Flowers” at the 2024 Grammy Awards was a spectacular hit, but what most people don’t know is that it was nearly shelved if not for some sage advice from the legendary Dolly Parton.
In a candid chat on Netflix’s My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman, the 31-year-old pop sensation shared a heartfelt moment with Parton, whom she affectionately calls her godmother.
Dolly Advice or Dolly-icous?
Facing a dilemma about performing at the upcoming Grammys, Cyrus turned to the 78-year-old queen of country for guidance. With her signature blend of charm and wisdom, Parton didn’t just nudge but practically catapulted Miley into the spotlight.
Parton’s golden words? “Well of course you’re going to do the Grammys, and you’re not just going to show up but you’re going to show off. And you’re going to be everything that you are sitting right here in front of me.” Well, talk about a pep talk!
This wasn’t just any random advice. Parton reminded Cyrus to embrace every facet of her being, and yes, that includes the glitz, the glam, and the perfectly coiffed hair.
Remembering their first encounter, Cyrus reflected, “I don’t remember our first meeting, I was so young. My dad and her worked together in the ’90s. They had music together and I think my dad even toured with her.”
Parton isn’t just a godmother in title; she carried the role onto Hannah Montana, too. Cyrus recalls how the show’s character seeped into her real life. “Parts of me are that character, including a little bit of my relationship with Dolly.”
And invoke the spirit of Hannah she did! “Hannah Montana is famous for wearing a blonde wig… that’s something that Dolly has been doing pretty much her entire life.” So, touché to intertwining lives and personas!
A Glimpse Behind the Glitz
Adding a dash of real-life humor to the conversation, Cyrus revealed Dolly Parton’s love for Dollywood food. Yes, you read that right! The country legend enjoys her theme park’s culinary delights.
