A Legend Remembered

Dolly Parton was known as one of the most influential figures in American culture. She rose from poverty to become a singer-songwriter with over 100 million records sold worldwide, earning countless awards. Various awards include Grammys, CMA Honors and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Beyond her musical achievements, Dolly has made an incredible mark as a businesswoman, actress, author, and philanthropist who created thousands of jobs and opportunities in her home state. She was also able to distribute over 200 million free books to children worldwide with her Imagination Library, while donating $1 million to help fund the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, which demonstrated her commitment to education and public health. 

• Dolly Rebecca Parton was born January 19, 1946, in Locust Ridge, Tennessee. 

• She wrote her first song at five, "Little Tiny Tasseltop."

• She started performing regularly on "The Cas Walker Show" in 1956.

• In 1959 at 13, she recorded her first single titled  "Puppy love" and made her debut at The Grand Ole Opry.

• After she graduated in 1964, Dolly moved to Nashville.

• She released her debut solo album, “Hello, I’m Dolly,” in 1967 and joined the Porter Wagner show as a co-host and performer.

• In 1971 she released her autobiographical hit single, "Coat Of Many Colors."

• In 1974, she left Porter Wagoner's show to pursue a solo career and reached No 1. with “I Will Always Love You”, which was track 6 off her "Jolene" album.

• On February 15, 1979, Dolly won her first Grammy for the category Best Female Country Vocal Performance for her hit song, “Here You Come Again.”