Dolly Parton (who is Dolly Parton?)
Dolly Parton is a highly celebrated singer, songwriter, actress, philanthropist, and businesswoman. Best known for her work in country music, Parton's entertainment career has spanned over five decades, and she is revered not only for her vocal talent but also for her songwriting abilities, with a catalog of thousands of songs.
Early Life and Career Beginnings: - Born on January 19, 1946, in Sevierville, Tennessee, Dolly Rebecca Parton grew up in a poor family as one of twelve children. - She began performing as a child, singing on local radio and television programs in East Tennessee. - After graduating high school in 1964, she moved to Nashville to pursue her career in music.
Music Career: - Parton's big break came in 1967 when she was featured on Porter Wagoner's television show, leading to a successful partnership that included a series of duet albums. - She achieved commercial success as a solo artist with hits like "Jolene," "9 to 5," and "I Will Always Love You," which Whitney Houston famously covered for the soundtrack of "The Bodyguard" (1992). - Her work has earned her numerous awards, including several Grammy Awards, a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame, and she has been nominated for the Academy Awards for her music in films.
Acting Career: - Parton made her film debut in the 1980 successful comedy "9 to 5," alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. - Her other notable film appearances include "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" (1982), "Steel Magnolias" (1989), and "Joyful Noise" (2012). - She has also been involved in television, with appearances and roles in various series and television movies, including her own variety shows. Parton starred in the NBC television specials based on her childhood, "Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors" (2015) and "Dolly Parton's Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love" (2016).
Business Ventures and Philanthropy: - Parton is the owner of the Dollywood Company, which operates the Dollywood theme park, the Splash Country waterpark, and other businesses in East Tennessee. - Her philanthropic efforts include the Dollywood Foundation, which has promoted childhood literacy since 1988 through the Imagination Library, sending free books to children from birth until they start school.
Recognition and Legacy: - Parton has been recognized for her cultural contributions in many ways, including multiple honors from the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, Country Music Hall of Fame, and the National Medal of Arts. - She was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011.
Recent Years: - Parton has remained active in recent years, releasing new music, collaborating with contemporary artists, and engaging in philanthropic work. - In 2020, it was revealed that she had contributed to the funding of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine research, further solidifying her place as a beloved public figure.
Discography and Filmography: - Parton's discography is vast, with over 50 studio albums, numerous compilation and live albums, and hundreds of singles. - Her filmography includes both her cinematic releases and television work.
Throughout her career, Parton has maintained a distinct image known for her blonde hair, sequined outfits, and charismatic personality. She's also celebrated for her straightforward and charming demeanor, quick wit, and openness regarding her life and work. Despite her fame, she has kept her personal life relatively private.
For more detailed information, her official website (Dolly Parton's Official Website) and resources such as IMDb (Dolly Parton - IMDb) offer comprehensive overviews of her career and achievements.