Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton (1946–2026) was an American singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist whose music carried East Tennessee storytelling into country, pop, bluegrass, gospel, and rock. After moving to Nashville in 1964, she first gained attention as a songwriter and through her partnership with Porter Wagoner before establishing a major solo career. Her catalog includes “Jolene,” “I Will Always Love You,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “9 to 5,” and “Here You Come Again,” alongside acclaimed collaborations with Kenny Rogers, Emmylou Harris, Linda Ronstadt, and others. Parton also created Dollywood and founded the Imagination Library literacy program. Her 2023 album Rockstar expanded her musical reach, while her songwriting remained the foundation of a seven-decade career. She died in Nashville on August 25, 2026, aged 80.

Origin

Locust Ridge, Tennessee, U.S.

Active

1956–2026