Tennessee pride was on full display through the special connection between two iconic acts from the state: the late Dolly Parton and Three 6 Mafia. During a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, hosted by Nashville native Jelly Roll, Juicy J and Project Pat looked back on the heartfelt letter Parton sent them after they defeated her at the 2006 Oscars.
Dolly Parton and Three 6 Mafia were both nominated for Best Original Song, with Parton receiving a nod for “Travelin’ Thru” from Transamerica and the Memphis rap group earning theirs for “It’s Hard Out Here For A Pimp” from Hustle & Flow. Three 6 Mafia made history that night as the first hip-hop group to win an Academy Award and also became the first to perform at the ceremony. The country legend was seen proudly cheering them on from the audience.
During the Jimmy Kimmel Live! conversation, Jelly Roll brought up Parton’s passing, leading everyone to honor her legacy while revisiting the unforgettable Oscars moment. Showing the clip from the ceremony, Jelly pointed out, “My favorite part of that clip is that the only person who was almost as excited as y’all were was Dolly Parton.”
He then asked Juicy J and Project Pat whether they ever heard from Parton after the historic win. Juicy recalled that the group received a thoughtful message from the country icon shortly afterward.
“We didn’t hear from her ’til, like, a week later,” he shared. “She sent us a letter. And she signed it and said, ‘Congratulations’ and ‘I’m glad somebody from Tennessee won the Oscar.'”
“Amazing,” Project Pat added.
Juicy J also revealed that he had the chance to meet Dolly before Three 6 Mafia took the stage for their performance. As the music world continues to remember Parton’s impact, stories like this highlight the kindness and encouragement she shared with artists across generations.
More tributes honoring Dolly Parton have continued to pour in, including a heartfelt message from Beyoncé. “I’m honored that I had the privilege to work with you,” she wrote. “Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully.”
Eminem also shared his appreciation for the music icon, revealing that Parton once congratulated him on his Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame induction through a personal note.
