The Band of the Coldstream Guards performed a rendition of "9 to 5" outside Buckingham Palace on Wednesday as a tribute to Dolly Parton.
The performance marks a rare musical departure for the traditional Changing the Guard ceremony. It highlights the global reach of Parton's influence and the esteem in which she was held by international institutions.
Parton died on Aug. 25, 2026 [1], at the age of 80 [1]. Her death followed a brief battle with cancer [5]. The tribute took place the morning after her death during the regular Changing the Guard ceremony in London [2, 3].
While some reports refer to the performers generally as the King's Guard [4], the unit was specifically identified as the Band of the Coldstream Guards [1]. A video of the performance, lasting approximately one minute, shows the band playing the upbeat anthem in front of the palace façade [7].
The Royal Family issued an official statement regarding the loss of the U.S. singer. “Remembering the late, great Dolly, who brought joy, comfort, and inspiration to so many,” the statement said [6].
Parton was a prolific songwriter and philanthropist whose career spanned several decades. The selection of "9 to 5" for the royal tribute reflects the song's status as a cultural touchstone for workers worldwide. The event drew crowds of tourists and mourners to the palace gates on Aug. 26, 2026 [2].
““Remembering the late, great Dolly, who brought joy, comfort, and inspiration to so many,””
The inclusion of a contemporary American pop-country song in the highly choreographed and traditional Changing the Guard ceremony is an unusual gesture. It signals a willingness by the British monarchy to adapt its rigid protocols to recognize global cultural figures who possess significant cross-continental appeal.
