Empire State Building to light up pink in tribute to Dolly Parton

New York City's iconic Empire State Building will glow pink on Tuesday evening in a special tribute to the legendary country music superstar Dolly Parton. The honor comes as the music world mourns the loss of the beloved singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist, who passed away at the age of 80.

The vibrant pink illumination of the famous skyscraper aims to celebrate Parton's immense contributions to music and culture. It also serves to recognize her enduring philanthropic efforts, particularly through her organization, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. This initiative is dedicated to fostering early literacy by sending free books to children from birth until they begin school.

Parton, known for timeless hits like 'Jolene' and 'I Will Always Love You,' had a career spanning decades. Her multifaceted talents earned her numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards, and extended into film and even a musical inspired by her life. Despite announcing health challenges in the fall of 2025 and canceling some Las Vegas concerts, she reportedly continued working, expressing her dedication in a recent interview.

Her passing was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, via Instagram. Parton is widely regarded as one of the most significant figures in the history of country music. The tribute at the Empire State Building highlights her lasting legacy as both an artist and a humanitarian.