Dolly Parton has revealed she is stepping away from music as she grieves the death of her beloved husband, Carl Dean.
The country music icon shared the devastating update during an appearance on the Khloe in Wonderland podcast with Khloe Kardashian, saying she “just can’t do it right now” when it comes to finishing the songs she’s been working on.
In March, Parton announced that Dean – her partner of nearly 60 years – had died aged 82.
“I got so many other things that I can’t afford the luxury of, you know, of getting emotional right now,” she said, her voice full of sorrow.
Despite saying she’s been “coming up with such wonderful and beautiful ideas”, Parton admitted she doesn’t currently have the emotional capacity to follow through on them.
Following Dean’s death, Parton released a tribute song in his honour titled If You Hadn’t Been There. She announced the release in a heartfelt Instagram post featuring a photo of her embracing Dean.
“I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old,” she wrote. “We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together. Like all great love stories, they never end.
“They live on in memory and song. He will always be the star of my life story, and I dedicate this song to him.”
While she admits her grief has “stalled” her creatively, Parton hasn’t ruled out writing again someday. “I would happily write something else though if it comes,” she added.
News of Dean’s death was first shared in a statement from Parton’s team on Instagram, which included a touching quote from the singer:
“Carl and I spent many wonderful years together,” she said. “Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.”
Images: Instagram
