Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
Keith Urban and Dolly Parton were both named members of the 2026 class of the Musicians Hall of Fame
Keith Urban is showing deep admiration for Dolly Parton.
The four-time Grammy Award winner, whose upcoming album Flow State is set for release on June 12, spoke to PEOPLE on the red carpet at the 2026 Musicians Hall of Fame induction in Nashville, sharing high praise for his fellow inductee.
“She’s fearless, a true trailblazer, and completely one of a kind,” said Urban, 58, about the 80-year-old country icon. “She keeps reminding artists that what really matters is expression, staying true to your creative path, and having courage in it.”
He added that Parton constantly explores new creative ground. “I don’t see her as pushing boundaries as much as I see her refusing to be limited by them,” he said.
Urban and Parton share a long professional history, and when asked about his favorite moments with her, he responded with a laugh, saying he has “many.”
In a 2022 appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Urban recalled his first meeting with Parton, describing it as surreal since he grew up listening to her music in rural Australia. He also joked that as a child, before his voice changed, he could easily sing in her range.
Parton has also frequently praised Urban. In a 2022 Good Morning America interview, when asked about a dream duet partner, she named him without hesitation, calling him highly talented and charming.
Both artists were part of the 2026 Musicians Hall of Fame induction class, alongside George Thorogood & The Destroyers, John Boylan, Leland Sklar, the late Nicky Hopkins, and collaborators Dann Huff and Michael McDonald of The Doobie Brothers.
Although Parton did not attend in person, she appeared in a recorded video message expressing gratitude for the honor, saying songwriting remains her greatest passion and emphasizing how learning instruments early helped her bring her music to life.