Pitbull is remembering the late Dolly Parton with affection, sharing a humorous exchange that captured the country legend’s personality and her connection with the rapper known as Mr. Worldwide.

During a Q&A at Billboard’s Latin Music Week in Miami on Wednesday, October 21, the 45-year-old artist reflected on his career, legacy and memorable encounters with Parton, who died on August 25 at age 80.

“She’s Dolly and I’m dale,” Pitbull said, describing the “9 to 5” singer as someone who was “always happy.”

He also recalled a witty remark Parton once made to him, drawing a playful parallel with his famous nickname.

“Well, hey, you know I’m Miss Worldwide, right?” she joked.

Pitbull Pays Tribute to Dolly Parton After Her Death

Parton’s warmth and support left a lasting impression on Pitbull, who publicly honored her during a concert at New York’s Northwell at Jones Beach Theater on the day she died.

Addressing the crowd, the rapper explained that Parton had believed in him and offered him an opportunity at a time when others had not shown him the same support.

“We’re having a great time, and we’re losing our minds, but there’s someone that was very special to me and showed me love and believed in me when a lot of folks didn’t and gave me an opportunity,” he said. “And her name is Dolly Parton.”

According to her spokesperson, Parton died following a brief battle with cancer.

During his emotional tribute, Pitbull praised the singer’s remarkable life, describing her as hardworking, intelligent, sophisticated, funny, powerful and intimidating. Above all, he emphasized her kindness and generous spirit.

“She lived an amazing life, a hardworking woman, intelligent, sophisticated, funny, powerful, intimidating — but more than anything, a good human being with a good heart,” he said. “And she showed me a lot of love.”

He also dedicated a moment of the performance to the women in the audience, connecting the tribute to their musical collaboration.

“So, to all the powerful women here tonight, this is dedicated to y’all, but more than anything to the legend that will live forever,” Pitbull told the crowd.

A Musical Collaboration That Brought Them Together

Pitbull and Parton joined forces in 2024 on “Powerful Women,” a track featured on his Trackhouse project that samples Parton’s iconic hit “9 to 5.”

The collaboration brought the two artists together in Nashville, where they met in person and posed for a photograph. Their partnership also highlighted the connection between Pitbull’s global pop and Latin music career and Parton’s enduring influence on country music.

For Pitbull, their relationship extended beyond the recording studio. His recent recollections and onstage tribute underscored how much he valued the encouragement and affection Parton showed him.

Pitbull Looks Ahead to 2027

While continuing to celebrate Parton’s legacy, Pitbull is preparing for his next career milestones. During his conversation with Billboard, he revealed that the deluxe edition of his Pitcoin album is scheduled for release in January 2027.

His I’m Back Tour will continue through the end of 2026 before returning to Latin America in February.

As Pitbull moves forward with new music and performances, his memories of Parton remain a meaningful reminder of the support, humor and generosity that defined their connection.

Source: Compiled from various sources