(NewsNation) — For those wondering why Dolly Parton has been in the background, there is good reason.

The country music icon told Khloe Kardashian on the latter’s “Khloé in Wonder Land” podcast that she is taking a backseat from songwriting following the death of her husband Carl Dean.

The pair married in 1966 and remained together until Dean’s death March 3 at the age of 82.

“My husband passed away three months ago. … Several things I’ve wanted to start, but I can’t do it,” Parton said of how grief has affected her creative process.

“I will later, but I’m just coming up with such wonderful, beautiful ideas. But I think I won’t finish it.”

The 79-year-old admitted she “can’t afford the luxury of getting that emotional right now” as she continues to deal with the death of her husband.

“Everything begins with a story or a song. … I think that’s one of the reasons I love to write, because I feel like I’m so connected to God right then,” Parton added.

Kardashian posted a photo of herself and Parton on her Instagram, expressing gratitude for the songstress.

“Dolly, you are even more magical in person! (if that’s even possible) I still feel like I’m dreaming!” she said.

“Thank you for allowing me to come out and have a dream like [sic] conversation with you. This was definitely a ‘pinch me’ moment.”