dolly parton biography

Dolly Parton Biography

Full Name: Dolly Rebecca Parton
Born: January 19, 1946
Birthplace: Sevierville, Tennessee, USA
Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Author, Businesswoman, Humanitarian

Early Life

Dolly Parton was born into a poor family in rural Tennessee, the fourth of twelve children. Music was a central part of her upbringing, and she began performing as a child on local radio and TV shows. After graduating from high school in 1964, she moved to Nashville to pursue her dreams of becoming a singer and songwriter.

Music Career

Dolly’s big break came as a songwriter, penning hits for other artists. Her own recording career took off in the late 1960s when she partnered with Porter Wagoner on a series of duet albums and TV appearances. She launched a highly successful solo career in the 1970s with hits like:

• “Jolene” (1973)
• “I Will Always Love You” (1974) – later famously covered by Whitney Houston
• “9 to 5” (1980) – also the theme for the film in which she starred

Over her career, Dolly Parton has released over 50 studio albums and written more than 3,000 songs.

Acting and Other Ventures

Dolly made a successful transition into acting, starring in films such as:

• “9 to 5” (1980)
• “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” (1982)
• “Steel Magnolias” (1989)

She also opened Dollywood, a theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, which celebrates Appalachian culture and draws millions of visitors annually.

Philanthropy

Dolly Parton is renowned for her charitable work. Through her Dollywood Foundation, she launched the Imagination Library, a literacy program that has donated over 200 million books to children worldwide. She has also supported disaster relief and medical research, including a $1 million donation toward COVID-19 vaccine development.

Awards and Recognition

Dolly has received numerous accolades, including:

• 11 Grammy Awards (with over 50 nominations)
• Induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame (1999)
• Presidential Medal of Freedom (offered in 2021, she initially declined)
• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction (2022)