Early Life and Education of Dolly Parton: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Dolly Parton. From birth to education, explore key events.

Dolly Parton is an American singer, songwriter, musician, actress, and philanthropist, most prominently known for her contributions to country music. Her career began in 1967 with her debut album, Hello, I'm Dolly. Spanning six decades, she has released 49 studio albums. Notably, her 2023 album, Rockstar, achieved significant success, peaking at number three on the Billboard 200 chart, becoming her highest-charting album to date.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1921: Birth of Robert Lee Parton Sr.

In 1921, Robert Lee Parton Sr., Dolly Parton's father, was born.

1923: Birth of Avie Lee Caroline Owens

In 1923, Avie Lee Caroline Owens, Dolly Parton's mother, was born.

January 19, 1946: Dolly Parton Born

On January 19, 1946, Dolly Rebecca Parton was born in Tennessee. She would grow up to be a famous singer, songwriter, musician, actress, and philanthropist.

1964: Moved to Nashville

In 1964, Dolly Parton moved to Nashville the day after graduating from Sevier County High School.

October 1978: Playboy Cover Appearance

In October 1978, Dolly Parton appeared on the cover of Playboy magazine wearing a Playboy bunny outfit, accompanied by a candid interview.

2000: Death of Robert Lee Parton Sr.

In 2000, Robert Lee Parton Sr., Dolly Parton's father, passed away.

2003: Death of Avie Lee Caroline Parton

In 2003, Avie Lee Caroline Parton, Dolly Parton's mother, passed away.

2003: Appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show

In 2003, Dolly Parton appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show, discussing her cosmetic surgery and her famous image.

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2012: Dolly Parton Drag Queen Lookalike Contest

In 2012, Dolly Parton mentioned that she had entered a Dolly Parton drag queen lookalike contest and lost.

2019: Brian Johnson: A Life on the Road Episode

In 2019, during an episode of the Sky Arts music series Brian Johnson: A Life on the Road, Dolly Parton revealed that she had composed both "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You" in the same songwriting session.

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2020: Publication of Songteller: My Life in Lyrics

In her 2020 book, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics, Dolly Parton credited her family, particularly her mother and Aunt Dorothy Jo, for her musical inspiration.

Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics

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March 7, 2025: Release of "If You Hadn't Been There"

On March 7, 2025, Dolly Parton released the single "If You Hadn't Been There" as a tribute to her husband, who had died a week prior. The single peaked at number 21 on the sales and downloads chart in the United Kingdom.

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