Dolly Parton, born on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tennessee, is a legendary American singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist. With a career spanning over 50 years, she is best known for her significant contributions to country music. Parton first gained attention in the 1960s as a successful songwriter before releasing her debut album, Hello, I'm Dolly, in 1967. She became a country music icon with numerous hit albums, including collaborations with Porter Wagoner. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, she achieved massive success, with many of her songs topping the charts.
Parton’s music career includes over 100 million records sold globally, making her one of the best-selling female artists ever. She holds several country music records, including 25 No. 1 singles and 44 Top 10 albums, and has written more than 3,000 songs. Some of her most famous compositions include I Will Always Love You, Jolene, and 9 to 5. Though her 1990s albums had less success, Parton made a strong comeback in the 2000s and continues to release music, often through her own label, Dolly Records.
In addition to music, Parton has built a successful acting career. She starred in popular films like 9 to 5, Steel Magnolias, and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. She received Golden Globe nominations for her acting roles and has won numerous awards, including 11 Grammy Awards, 10 Country Music Association Awards, and 5 Academy of Country Music Awards.
Parton has been recognized for her philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Dollywood Foundation, which supports education and poverty relief in East Tennessee. She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999 and received the National Medal of Arts in 2005. Dolly Parton’s influence extends beyond music, and she remains a beloved figure worldwide, admired for her talent, generosity, and resilience.
