January 19, 19** – Miss Dolly Rebecca Parton , simply known as Dolly Parton, American singer & songwriter is @)_!. Happy Birthday Miss

Early Life

Dolly Parton is born on January 19, 1946, in Locust Ridge, Tennessee, in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

She grows up in a one-room cabin as the fourth of twelve children in a large, impoverished family.

Her father is a farmer and sharecropper, while her mother is a homemaker.

Music becomes a significant part of her early life, introduced through the Pentecostal church where she begins singing.

Early Musical Career

Dolly starts writing songs at seven and receives her first guitar at eight, fueling her passion for music.

By the age of ten, she performs on local TV and radio shows, and at 13, she records her first single, “Puppy Love”.

In 1960, she makes her Grand Ole Opry debut, where Johnny Cash encourages her to follow her instincts.

Move to Nashville

After graduating high school in 1964, Dolly moves to Nashville to pursue her music career.

On her first day in the city, she meets Carl Dean, her future husband.

She signs with Monument Records, where her label initially pushes her toward pop music instead of country.

Marriage to Carl Dean

Dolly marries Carl Dean in 1966 in a private ceremony.

Carl, a private individual who owns an asphalt paving business, avoids the public spotlight.

Their marriage, spanning over 50 years, thrives on mutual respect and independence.

Breakthrough in Country Music

Her big break comes in 1966 when Bill Phillips includes her harmony vocals on a hit track.

Her solo success begins with “Dumb Blonde” in 1967, signaling her arrival on the country scene.

Later that year, she joins *The Porter Wagoner Show*, gaining national exposure.

Signature Songs: “Coat of Many Colors” and “Jolene”

During her time with Porter Wagoner, Dolly writes “Coat of Many Colors,” a poignant song inspired by her childhood.

In 1973, she releases “Jolene,” inspired by a flirtatious bank clerk, which becomes a defining hit in her career.

Solo Career and Departure from Porter Wagoner

By 1974, Dolly decides to leave *The Porter Wagoner Show* to focus on her solo career, sparking conflict with Wagoner.

She writes “I Will Always Love You” as a farewell to him, which becomes one of her most enduring songs.

Despite tensions, she maintains a familial bond with Wagoner.

Crossing Over to Pop

Her 1977 album *Here You Come Again* marks her transition to pop, earning her a Grammy and broadening her audience.

Her ability to blend country roots with pop appeal secures her status as a crossover success.

Television, Film, and Broadway

Dolly expands into television with her variety show, *Dolly*, in 1976.

Her film debut in *9 to 5* (1980) showcases her acting talent and includes the Oscar-nominated title song.

She also writes music for the Broadway adaptation of *9 to 5*, earning critical acclaim.

Business Ventures

Dolly establishes herself as a businesswoman with ventures like Dollywood, her Tennessee theme park that employs thousands.

Her company, Dolly Parton Enterprises, manages her diverse interests, including production and real estate.

Dollywood becomes a significant cultural and economic presence in her community.

Philanthropy: The Imagination Library

In 1996, Dolly launches The Imagination Library, providing free books to children worldwide.

Inspired by her father’s struggles with literacy, the program has distributed over 100 million books.

Her philanthropic efforts highlight her commitment to education and community support.

Musical Collaborations

Dolly collaborates with Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris, forming a celebrated trio known for their harmonies and love of mountain music.

Their albums, released in 1986 and 1999, showcase their shared musical roots and camaraderie.

Her relationship with Miley Cyrus, her goddaughter, reflects her mentorship of younger artists.

Musical Style and Image

Dolly’s music combines storytelling, emotional resonance, and authenticity rooted in her Appalachian heritage.

Her signature look—big wigs, glamorous outfits, and bold makeup—is inspired by the “town tramp” from her childhood.

She famously quips, “It costs a lot of money to look this cheap.”

Later Career and Legacy

Dolly continues to release music, including her 2023 rock album *Rockstar*.

She performs at major events like Glastonbury Festival, remaining a beloved cultural icon.

With over 100 million records sold and numerous accolades, Dolly Parton cements her legacy as the “Queen of Country” and an enduring inspiration worldwide.