Dolly Parton, the legendary 77-year-old singer, songwriter, and actress, is a timeless source of inspiration and creativity. As we approach the end of 2023, Dolly is about to bless us with two incredible releases. Her new book, Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones, will hit the shelves on October 17th, followed by her eagerly awaited rock album, Rockstar, on November 17th. It’s safe to say that it’s officially Dolly Parton season, y’all!
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Dolly opened up about her upcoming book and album. She also discussed her distinctive fashion style and how she has always stayed true to herself, even in the face of disapproval from her own family.
Dolly’s unique fashion sense was ignited by a woman she deeply admired in her hometown, whom she affectionately referred to as the “town tramp.” This woman had a dazzling style – bright red lipstick, long red fingernails, and audacious outfits. Dolly was captivated by her beauty and would deliberately seek her out during trips to town with her family.
Despite facing criticism from her father, a sharecropper, and her grandfather, a preacher, for her unconventional attire, Dolly never allowed their disapproval to deter her. She proudly embraced her individuality and expressed herself through her fashion choices, remaining true to who she was and is.
“I was willing to pay for it. I’m very sensitive, I didn’t like being disciplined – it hurt my feelings so bad to be scolded or whipped or whatever. But sometimes there’s just that part of you that’s willing, if you want something bad enough, to go for it,” she revealed to The Guardian. Dolly wanted it bad enough, and she went for it.
Not only did her family express concerns about her style, but even record label executives tried to persuade her to tone it down. However, Dolly remained steadfast in expressing herself authentically. Though she cares about what people think of her, she never allows it to compromise her true self.
Dolly lives by the advice her mother always gave her: “to thine own self be true.” She wholeheartedly believes in the power that comes from staying true to her own understanding and beliefs, whether it’s reflected in her personality, conduct, or business ventures.
Dolly Parton’s Remarkable Success and Influential Parents
Dolly Parton’s extraordinary success as a recording artist spanning 67 years can be attributed, in large part, to her upbringing and the influence of her parents. She credits her remarkable parents for shaping her into the businesswoman and artist she is today, as she feels she inherited the best qualities from both of them.
“I like to think that I got the best of my dad and my mom. It’s kept me as a businesswoman, knowing what I need to do, not just to get out and sing,” Dolly shared, emphasizing the significant impact her parents had on her career. Their profound influence helped her build an empire worth more than $500 million and create a catalog of over 3,000 songs.
Songwriting has been Dolly’s passion since she was just 7 years old. Even though she has retired from touring, she continues to write songs to this day. She understands the importance of capturing ideas as they come, and she makes sure to document them immediately, whether it’s on gum wrappers or restaurant napkins. Dolly knows that great ideas can easily slip away if they’re not recorded promptly.
With her upcoming book and album, Dolly Parton continues to inspire us with her timeless talent, enduring creativity, and unwavering authenticity. Her story reminds us to stay true to ourselves and embrace our uniqueness, no matter what obstacles or doubts we may face. Thank you, Dolly, for being an empowering icon and a shining example for us all.
Let’s celebrate Dolly Parton, the queen of rhinestones!
