Miley Cyrus has broken her silence following the loss of the woman she lovingly called “Aunt Dolly” — and one detail about their final conversations is especially emotional.

Dolly Parton wasn’t simply another legendary singer Miley admired.

She was Miley’s godmother, mentor, collaborator and a presence in her life from childhood.

In an emotional tribute, Miley explained that some of the most meaningful moments she shared with Dolly will remain private. She described those memories as sacred—moments that existed away from the cameras, stages and glamour that surrounded both of their careers.

But Miley did reveal one detail.

One of her last conversations with Dolly was about music and metamorphosis.

Those words carry even more weight now.

Miley said she knows what Dolly would want her to do with the pain she’s feeling: feel it, turn those emotions into a song, keep moving forward and remain strong.

It’s a message that seems perfectly suited to the relationship they shared.

Over the years, Dolly watched Miley transform from the young star of Hannah Montana into an artist with an identity completely her own. Dolly appeared as “Aunt Dolly” on the Disney series, and their relationship eventually produced memorable performances together, including “Jolene,” “Wrecking Ball” and “I Will Always Love You.”

But behind those performances was something much more personal.

Miley made clear that there were conversations and memories the public will never hear about—and she intends to keep them that way.

She ended her tribute with a promise that may be the most touching part of all: she will continue loving Dolly and trying to make her proud.

Miley also described Dolly as an “angel by my side.”

For fans who watched the two of them laugh, sing and share the stage over the years, knowing that one of their final conversations came back to music feels remarkably fitting.

Dolly spent a lifetime turning emotions into songs.

And now, the goddaughter she loved may do exactly the same.