Opinion: Remembering Dolly Parton
This tribute reflects on the life and legacy of country music icon Dolly Parton following her recent passing. It highlights her humble beginnings, her massive success in entertainment, and her extensive philanthropic efforts.
Why it matters
Dolly Parton was a significant cultural figure whose influence spanned music, film, and humanitarian work, making her death a major cultural milestone.
Dolly Parton was brilliant, melodic, and trailblazing. Her lifetime art was to be both spangly and utterly genuine.
When Dolly died this week, I thought I could see her bright, wide smile shining down from the sky, with the clouds billowing into her signature blond curls.
Dolly Parton was lauded and loved. Tributes poured in as they would for a head of state—more, I daresay, than many heads of state. American flags were lowered to half-staff, the top of the Empire State building sparkled in pink, and the royal guards at Buckingham Palace played "9 to 5" in tribute.
Dolly Parton sold more than 100 million records. She delighted, amused, and moved millions more, starring in movies and appearing on TV. She was charming, and she was savvy.
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