History of Dolly Parton in Timeline
Dolly Parton is a multifaceted American entertainer, known for her success as a singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman, and philanthropist. Her career launched in 1967 with her debut album and has spanned over six decades, resulting in 50 studio albums. Widely recognized as the "Queen of Country," Parton has received numerous awards, including eleven Grammy Awards and three Emmy Awards, alongside nominations for Academy, Golden Globe, and Tony Awards.
1921: Robert Lee Parton Sr. Birth
In 1921, Dolly Parton's father, Robert Lee Parton Sr., was born.
1923: Avie Lee Caroline Birth
In 1923, Dolly Parton's mother, Avie Lee Caroline, was born.
July 20, 1942: Carl Thomas Dean's Birth
On July 20, 1942, Carl Thomas Dean, who would later become Dolly Parton's husband, was born.
1942: David Wilburn Parton Birth
In 1942, Dolly Parton's brother David Wilburn Parton was born.
1953: Randle Huston "Randy" Parton Birth
In 1953, Dolly Parton's brother Randle Huston "Randy" Parton was born.
1955: Larry Gerald Parton Birth
In 1955, Dolly Parton's brother Larry Gerald Parton was born.
1957: Twins Frieda Estelle and Floyd Estel Parton Birth
In 1957, Dolly Parton's twin brothers Frieda Estelle and Floyd Estel Parton were born.
May 30, 1966: Dolly Parton and Carl Thomas Dean's Wedding
On May 30, 1966, Dolly Parton married Carl Thomas Dean in Ringgold, Georgia. She does not professionally use his surname, but her passport reads "Dolly Parton Dean".
1968: Release of First RCA Album
In 1968, Dolly Parton's first RCA album was released, which featured the song "Just Because I'm a Woman" as its title song.
1969: Induction into the Grand Ole Opry
In 1969, Dolly Parton was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.
1970: Construction of Brentwood Home Begins
In 1970, Dolly Parton's uncle, Dot Watson, and her husband, Carl Dean, began constructing their home in Brentwood, Tennessee. Parton's brothers Denver and Randy also assisted with the construction.
1971: Here I Am Song
In 1971, Dolly Parton released the song "Here I Am".
1971: Brentwood Home Construction Completed
In 1971, the construction of Dolly Parton and Carl Dean's home in Brentwood, Tennessee, was completed after beginning the previous year.
1972: Move to Brentwood Home
In 1972, Dolly Parton and Carl Dean moved into their current home on 75 acres in Brentwood, Tennessee, while retaining ownership of their prior home in Antioch for several years.
1975: "I Will Always Love You" covered by Linda Ronstadt
In 1975, Linda Ronstadt covered "I Will Always Love You" on the album Prisoner In Disguise
1976: Dolly! TV Show
In 1976, Dolly Parton's first attempt at a television variety show, Dolly!, aired. It had high ratings, but lasted only one season.
1977: Barbara Walters Special Interview
In 1977, Dolly Parton gave a highly publicized candid interview on a Barbara Walters Special, coinciding with the release of her album Here You Come Again.
October 1978: Playboy Cover Appearance
In October 1978, Dolly Parton appeared on the cover of Playboy magazine wearing a Playboy bunny outfit. The issue included an extensive interview with Parton.
1978: Grammy Award for Here You Come Again album
In 1978, Dolly Parton won a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance for her album Here You Come Again. She also made appearances on Cher's ABC television special in 1978.
1978: CMA Entertainer of the Year
In 1978, Dolly Parton won the Country Music Association's highest honor, Entertainer of the Year.
1979: Continued Chart Success
In 1979, Dolly Parton continued her chart success with "Baby I'm Burning" and "You're the Only One", and she hosted The Seventies: An Explosion of Country Music. However, "Sweet Summer Lovin'" became the first Parton single in two years to not top the country chart.
1979: Hosted NBC Special
In 1979, Dolly Parton hosted the NBC special "The Seventies: An Explosion of Country Music", which was performed live at the Ford Theatre in Washington, D.C.
1979: Emmy Nomination for Cher Special
In 1979, Dolly Parton received an Emmy award nomination as "Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Variety Program" for her guest appearance in a Cher special.
1980: Inclusion of Song on Album
In 1980, "Old Flames Can't Hold a Candle to You" was included on Dolly Parton's album Dolly, Dolly, Dolly.
1980: Inspiration for "9 to 5" Beat
In 1980, Dolly Parton derived the beat for her song "9 to 5" from clacking her nails together while backstage on the set of the film 9 to 5.
1980: Commercial Success with Chart-Topping Hits
In 1980, Dolly Parton experienced significant commercial success with three consecutive country chart number-one hits: "Starting Over Again", "Old Flames Can't Hold a Candle to You", and "9 to 5".
1980: 9 to 5 Film Release
In 1980, Dolly Parton portrayed a secretary in a leading role with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin in the comedy film 9 to 5. Parton also wrote and recorded the title song.
1980: Release of 9 to 5 movie
In 1980, Dolly Parton released the movie 9 to 5.
1980: Starred in Feature Film
In 1980, Dolly Parton starred in the feature film 9 to 5 with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, which also featured a theme song that she performed.
February 1981: Triple Number One Hit
In February 1981, the theme song to the 1980 feature film 9 to 5, starring Dolly Parton, reached number one on the country, pop, and adult-contemporary charts, giving her a triple number-one hit.
1981: Top Female Box Office Star
In 1981, Dolly Parton was named Top Female Box Office Star by the Motion Picture Herald due to the success of the film 9 to 5.
1981: Chart Success and Lawsuit Settlement
In early 1981, "9 to 5" topped both the country and pop charts. Dolly Parton also had another Top 10 single that year with "Making Plans" from her 1980 album with Porter Wagoner, which was released as part of a lawsuit settlement between them.
1981: The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas Filming
In late 1981, Dolly Parton began filming her second film, the musical film The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.
1982: Release of second version of 'I Will Always Love You' for 'The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas'
In 1982, Dolly Parton recorded a second version of "I Will Always Love You" for The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. The second version was a number one country hit and also reached number 53 on the pop charts.
1982: Top Female Box Office Star
In 1982, Dolly Parton was named Top Female Box Office Star by the Motion Picture Herald due to the success of the film 9 to 5.
1982: The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas Release
In 1982, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas was released. The film earned her a second nomination for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.
1982: Top 50 Hit with Re-recorded Version
In 1982, a re-recorded version of Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You", from the film The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, reached the Top 50.
1983: Alvin and the Chipmunks Voice Work
In 1983, Dolly Parton did voice work for the television series Alvin and the Chipmunks, playing herself in the episode "Urban Chipmunk".
1983: Number One Hit with Kenny Rogers
In 1983, Dolly Parton's duet with Kenny Rogers, "Islands in the Stream", written by the Bee Gees and produced by Barry Gibb, spent two weeks at number one.
1984: Top 10 Country Hits
In 1984, Dolly Parton had songs like "God Won't Get You" reach the country Top 10.
1984: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
In 1984, Dolly Parton was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her music, located at 6712 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California.
1984: Rhinestone Release
In 1984, Dolly Parton was teamed with Sylvester Stallone for Rhinestone, a comedy film about a country music star's efforts to mold an unknown into a music sensation.
1985: Continued Top 10 Success
Between 1981 and 1985, Dolly Parton had twelve Top 10 hits on the country charts, with half of them reaching number one, as well as making inroads on the pop charts.
1986: Columbia Records Signing
Despite some chart success, RCA Records did not renew Dolly Parton's contract after it expired in 1986, and she subsequently signed with Columbia Records in 1987.
1986: A Smoky Mountain Christmas
In 1986, Dolly Parton starred in the television movie A Smoky Mountain Christmas.
1986: Inductions into Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame
In 1986, Dolly Parton was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and was named one of Ms. Magazine's Women of the Year.
1987: Release of Trio Album and Pop Attempt
In 1987, Dolly Parton released "Trio" with Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt, which revitalized her music career. She also attempted pop success with the album "Rainbow".
1987: Signs with Columbia Records
In 1987, Dolly Parton signed with Columbia Records.
1987: Dolly TV Show Second Attempt
In 1987, Dolly Parton tried a second television variety show, also titled Dolly; it too lasted only one season.
1989: Steel Magnolias Release
In 1989, Dolly Parton returned to film acting in Steel Magnolias, based on the play Steel Magnolias by Robert Harling.
1989: Brief Career Revival
In 1989, Dolly Parton's album White Limozeen produced two number-one hits in "Why'd You Come in Here Lookin' Like That" and "Yellow Roses", marking a brief revival in her career.
1990: Designing Women Guest Appearance
In 1990, Dolly Parton guest-starred in an episode of Designing Women as herself, the guardian movie star of Charlene's baby.
1990: Honorary Doctorate from Carson-Newman College
In 1990, Dolly Parton received an honorary doctorate degree from Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tennessee.
1991: Number One Hit with Ricky Van Shelton
In 1991, Dolly Parton's duet with Ricky Van Shelton, "Rockin' Years", reached number one.
1992: Straight Talk
In 1992, Dolly Parton starred with James Woods in Straight Talk, which received mixed reviews and grossed a mild $21 million at the box office.
1992: "I Will Always Love You" Success
In 1992, Whitney Houston's recording of Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You" for the soundtrack of The Bodyguard became a massive commercial success.
1993: The Beverly Hillbillies Cameo
In 1993, Dolly Parton made a cameo appearance as herself in The Beverly Hillbillies, an adaptation of the long-running TV sitcom.
1993: Critical Acclaim for Slow Dancing with the Moon and Collaborative Projects
In 1993, Dolly Parton released the album "Slow Dancing with the Moon" to critical acclaim and also recorded "The Day I Fall in Love" with James Ingram for the film Beethoven's 2nd. She also released Honky Tonk Angels with Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette.
1994: Contribution to AIDS Benefit Album and Live Acoustic Album Release
In 1994, Dolly Parton contributed the song "You Gotta Be My Baby" to the AIDS benefit album Red Hot + Country and released a live acoustic album, Heartsongs: Live from Home.
1994: The Magic School Bus Voice Work
In 1994, Dolly Parton did voice work for The Magic School Bus, playing the character Katrina Eloise "Murph" Murphy in the episode "The Family Holiday Special".
1995: Vocal Event of the Year Award
In 1995, Dolly Parton's re-recording of "I Will Always Love You" with Vince Gill won the Country Music Association's Vocal Event of the Year Award.
1996: Unlikely Angel
In 1996, Dolly Parton starred in the television movie Unlikely Angel, portraying an angel sent back to earth after a deadly car crash.
1996: "I Will Always Love You" covered by Kenny Rogers
In 1996, Kenny Rogers covered "I Will Always Love You" on the album Vote for Love.
1997: "I Will Always Love You" covered by LeAnn Rimes
In 1997, LeAnn Rimes covered "I Will Always Love You" on the album Unchained Melody: The Early Years.
1998: Release of Country-Rock Album
In 1998, Dolly Parton released her country-rock album Hungry Again, which was made up entirely of her own compositions.
1998: Wealthiest Country Music Star
In 1998, Nashville Business ranked Dolly Parton the wealthiest country music star.
1998: Discovery of Asteroid (10731) Dollyparton
In 1998, the asteroid now known as (10731) Dollyparton was discovered and initially designated 1998 BL3.
1999: The Simpsons Guest Appearance
In 1999, Dolly Parton made a guest appearance on The Simpsons in the episode "Sunday, Cruddy Sunday".
1999: Induction into Country Music Hall of Fame
In 1999, Dolly Parton received country music's highest honor with an induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
1999: Blue Valley Songbird
In 1999, Dolly Parton starred in the television movie Blue Valley Songbird, where her character lives through her music.
1999: Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album
In 1999, Dolly Parton won a Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album for The Grass Is Blue.
1999: Grammy Award and Hall of Fame Induction
In early 1999, Dolly Parton won a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for her cover of Neil Young's "After the Gold Rush" with Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt, and she was also inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999.
1999: False Claims about Brentwood Home Purchase
Since the 2010s, many clickbait articles and videos incorrectly claim that in 1999 Dean and Parton purchased their current home in Brentwood.
2000: Bette Guest Appearance
In 2000, Dolly Parton appeared as herself on the Halloween episode of Bette Midler's short-lived sitcom Bette.
2000: Association of American Publishers Honors Award
In 2000, Dolly Parton received the Association of American Publishers Honors Award for her work in literacy.
2000: Robert Lee Parton Sr. Death
In 2000, Dolly Parton's father, Robert Lee Parton Sr., passed away.
2001: Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval
In 2001, Dolly Parton was awarded the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval, marking the first time it had been awarded to a person.
2001: Induction into National Academy of Popular Music/Songwriters Hall of Fame
In 2001, Dolly Parton was inducted into the National Academy of Popular Music/Songwriters Hall of Fame.
2001: Induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame
In 2001, Dolly Parton was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
2001: Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance
In 2001, Dolly Parton won a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance for her cover of Collective Soul's "Shine" from Little Sparrow.
2002: Frank McKlusky, C.I. Appearance
In 2002, Dolly Parton appeared as an overprotective mother in the comedy Frank McKlusky, C.I..
2002: Ranked in CMT's 40 Greatest Women of Country Music
In 2002, Dolly Parton ranked No. 4 in CMT's 40 Greatest Women of Country Music.
2002: American Association of School Administrators – Galaxy Award
In 2002, Dolly Parton received the American Association of School Administrators – Galaxy Award for her contributions to literacy.
2002: Bluegrass Version of Stairway to Heaven
In 2002, Dolly Parton's album Halos & Horns included a bluegrass version of the Led Zeppelin song "Stairway to Heaven".
November 4, 2003: BMI Icon Award
On November 4, 2003, Dolly Parton was honored as a BMI Icon at the 2003 BMI Country Awards.
2003: Discussion of Cosmetic Surgery on The Oprah Winfrey Show
In 2003, Dolly Parton discussed her cosmetic surgery experiences on The Oprah Winfrey Show, stating it was imperative in keeping with her image.
2003: Partnership Award from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
In 2003, Dolly Parton earned the Partnership Award from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for her efforts to preserve the bald eagle through the American Eagle Foundation's sanctuary at Dollywood.
2003: Parents as Teachers National Center – Child and Family Advocacy Award
In 2003, Dolly Parton received the Parents as Teachers National Center – Child and Family Advocacy Award.
2003: Tribute Album Release
In 2003, Dolly Parton was honored with a tribute album called "Just Because I'm a Woman: Songs of Dolly Parton", featuring various artists recording versions of her songs. Dolly Parton also contributed a re-recording of the title song.
2003: Avie Lee Caroline Death
In 2003, Dolly Parton's mother, Avie Lee Caroline, passed away.
April 14, 2004: Living Legend Medal from U.S. Library of Congress
On April 14, 2004, Dolly Parton was awarded the Living Legend Medal by the U.S. Library of Congress for her contributions to the cultural heritage of the United States. She is also the focus of a Library of Congress collection exploring the influences of country music on her life and career.
2004: "AFI's 100 Years...100 Songs"
In 2004, Parton's song "9 to 5" was no. 78 on the "AFI's 100 Years...100 Songs" list released by the American Film Institute.
October 29, 2005: Composing Songs for 9 to 5: The Musical
According to the public-radio program Studio 360, in October 2005, Dolly Parton was in the midst of composing songs for a Broadway musical theater adaptation of the film 9 to 5.
2005: Academy Award Nomination and Death Threats
In 2005, Dolly Parton earned her second Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song for "Travelin' Thru", but also received death threats due to the song's acceptance of a transgender woman. Also in 2005, she returned to number one on the country chart by lending her harmonies to the Brad Paisley ballad, "When I Get Where I'm Going".
2005: Release of Folk-Rock Interpretations Album
In 2005, Dolly Parton released Those Were The Days, consisting of her interpretations of hits from the folk-rock era of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
2005: National Medal of Arts
In 2005, Dolly Parton was honored with the National Medal of Arts, the highest honor given by the U.S. government for excellence in the arts.
2005: Awards and Nominations for "Travelin' Thru"
In 2005, Dolly Parton's "Travelin' Thru" from the film Transamerica won Best Original Song at the 2005 Phoenix Film Critics Society Awards. It was also nominated for both the 2005 Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song and the 2005 Broadcast Film Critics Association Award (also known as the Critics' Choice Awards) for Best Song.
December 3, 2006: Kennedy Center Honors
On December 3, 2006, Dolly Parton received the Kennedy Center Honors from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts for her lifetime contributions to the arts. During the show, many country music stars showed their admiration.
December 2006: Pledge to Hospital and PETA Ad Campaign
In December 2006, Dolly Parton pledged $500,000 toward a proposed hospital and cancer center in Sevierville and announced a benefit concert for additional funds. She and Emmylou Harris also allowed use of their music in a PETA ad campaign encouraging pet owners to keep dogs indoors.
2006: Hannah Montana Appearance
In 2006, Dolly Parton made cameo appearances on the Disney Channel as "Aunt Dolly", visiting Hannah and her family in Miley Cyrus's series Hannah Montana.
2006: Publication of "Dolly's Dixie Fixin's"
In 2006, Dolly Parton published a cookbook titled "Dolly's Dixie Fixin's: Love, Laughter and Lots of Good Food".
June 2007: Industry Presentations of 9 to 5: The Musical
In late June 2007, 9 to 5: The Musical was read for industry presentations. The readings starred Megan Hilty, Allison Janney, Stephanie J. Block, Bebe Neuwirth and Marc Kudisch.
September 2007: Release of First Single from Dolly Records
In September 2007, Dolly Parton released "Better Get to Livin'", the first single from her own record company, Dolly Records.
November 8, 2007: Woodrow Wilson Award for Public Service
On November 8, 2007, Dolly Parton received the Woodrow Wilson Award for Public Service from the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars of the Smithsonian Institution at a ceremony in Nashville.
2007: Hannah Montana Appearance
In 2007, Dolly Parton made cameo appearances on the Disney Channel as "Aunt Dolly", visiting Hannah and her family in Miley Cyrus's series Hannah Montana.
February 26, 2008: Release of Backwoods Barbie Album
On February 26, 2008, Dolly Parton released the studio album Backwoods Barbie, which reached number two on the country chart and produced four additional singles.
2008: American Idol Guest Appearance
In 2008, Dolly Parton appeared on American Idol as a guest.
2008: Filmed Concerts
In 2008, Dolly Parton filmed concerts at London's The O2 Arena.
2008: Release of Backwoods Barbie album
In 2008, Dolly Parton released the Backwoods Barbie album, whose title track was written for the musical's character Doralee.
2008: The Book Lady Documentary
In 2008, Dolly Parton was featured in The Book Lady, a documentary about her campaign for children's literacy.
April 30, 2009: Broadway Opening of 9 to 5: The Musical
On April 30, 2009, 9 to 5: The Musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, opened on Broadway at the Marquis Theatre in New York to mixed reviews.
May 8, 2009: Honorary Doctorate from University of Tennessee
On May 8, 2009, Dolly Parton gave the commencement speech at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from the university.
September 6, 2009: Closing of 9 to 5: The Musical on Broadway
On September 6, 2009, 9 to 5: The Musical closed on Broadway after 24 previews and 148 performances.
October 2009: Live DVD and Album Release
In October 2009, Dolly Parton released her second live DVD and album, Live From London, filmed during her sold-out 2008 concerts at London's The O2 Arena.
October 27, 2009: Release of Four-CD Box Set
On October 27, 2009, Dolly Parton released a four-CD box set, Dolly, which featured 99 songs spanning most of her career.
2009: Hannah Montana: The Movie
In 2009, Dolly Parton expected to reprise her television role as Hannah's godmother in the musical comedy film Hannah Montana: The Movie, but the character was omitted from the screenplay.
2009: Public Support for Same-Sex Marriage
In 2009, Dolly Parton publicly came out in support of same-sex marriage, adding to her long history of openly supporting the gay community.
2009: Songwriting on Larry King Live
In a 2009 interview on CNN's Larry King Live, Dolly Parton said she had written "at least 3,000" songs, having written seriously since the age of seven and continues to write something every day.
August 10, 2010: Release of Album with Billy Ray Cyrus
On August 10, 2010, Dolly Parton released the album Brother Clyde with Billy Ray Cyrus, featuring her on "The Right Time", which she co-wrote.
2010: Hannah Montana Appearance
In 2010, Dolly Parton made cameo appearances on the Disney Channel as "Aunt Dolly", visiting Hannah and her family in Miley Cyrus's series Hannah Montana and was nominated for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series.
January 6, 2011: Announcement of New Album
On January 6, 2011, Dolly Parton announced that her new album would be titled Better Day.
February 2011: Announcement of Better Day World Tour
In February 2011, Dolly Parton announced that she would embark on the Better Day World Tour.
May 23, 2011: Release of Lead-off Single
On May 23, 2011, Dolly Parton released the lead-off single "Together You and I" from her upcoming album Better Day.
June 3, 2011: Dolly Parton Day
On June 3, 2011, the South Carolina General Assembly declared June 3rd as Dolly Parton Day. Parton also appeared for the opening of the Myrtle Beach location becoming Pirates Voyage Fun, Feast and Adventure.
June 28, 2011: Release of Better Day Album
On June 28, 2011, Dolly Parton released her album Better Day.
July 17, 2011: Embarking on Better Day World Tour
On July 17, 2011, Dolly Parton embarked on the Better Day World Tour, with shows in northern Europe and the U.S.
2011: Comments on Marriage
In 2011, Dolly Parton commented on her marriage with Carl Thomas Dean, stating that they are proud and that it is the first and last marriage for both of them.
2011: Lifetime Achievement Grammy
In 2011, Dolly Parton earned a Lifetime Achievement Grammy, adding to her total of 11 Grammy Awards and 55 nominations.
2011: Gnomeo & Juliet Voice Role
In 2011, Dolly Parton had a voice role in the comedy family film Gnomeo & Juliet.
January 19, 2012: Water and Snow Park Announcement
On January 19, 2012, Gaylord Opryland and Dollywood announced plans to open a $50 million water and snow park in Nashville.
February 11, 2012: Statement on Whitney Houston's Death
On February 11, 2012, Dolly Parton expressed her sadness and gratitude for Whitney Houston's performance of "I Will Always Love You" after Houston's sudden death.
September 29, 2012: Withdrawal of Support for Nashville Park
On September 29, 2012, Dolly Parton officially withdrew her support for the Nashville park due to the restructuring of Gaylord Entertainment Company after its merger with Marriott International.
October 12, 2012: UK Tour for Dolly Parton's 9 to 5: The Musical
Ambassador Theatre Group announced a 2012 UK tour for Dolly Parton's 9 to 5: The Musical, commencing at Manchester Opera House on October 12, 2012.
2012: Songwriting Achievements
As of 2012, Dolly Parton had written more than 3,000 songs and sold more than 100 million records, solidifying her status as one of the best-selling female artists of all time.
2012: Joyful Noise Co-Starring Role
In 2012, Dolly Parton co-starred with Queen Latifah in the musical film Joyful Noise, playing a choir director's widow.
2012: Dolly Parton Drag Queen Lookalike Contest
In 2012, Dolly Parton said she entered a Dolly Parton drag queen lookalike contest and lost.
2013: Re-recording and Reunion
In 2013, Dolly Parton joined Lulu Roman for a re-recording of "I Will Always Love You" and reunited with Kenny Rogers for the title song of his album You Can't Make Old Friends.
June 29, 2014: Glastonbury Festival Performance
On June 29, 2014, Dolly Parton performed for the first time at the UK Glastonbury Festival, singing songs such as "Jolene", "9 to 5" and "Coat of Many Colors" to a crowd of more than 180,000.
June 12, 2015: Dollywood Company Purchased Lumberjack Feud Dinner Show
On June 12, 2015, it was announced that the Dollywood Company had purchased the Lumberjack Feud Dinner Show in Pigeon Forge.
December 2015: Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors Airs
In December 2015, Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors, a made-for-TV film based on Parton's song "Coat of Many Colors" and featuring narration by Parton, aired on NBC.
2015: Dixie Pixie Productions
In 2015, Dolly Parton announced her new production company would be called Dixie Pixie Productions and produce the movies-of-week in development with NBC Television and Magnolia Hill Productions.
2015: Japewiella dollypartoniana
In 2015, a newly discovered species of lichen found growing in the southern Appalachians was named Japewiella dollypartoniana in honor of Dolly Parton's music and her efforts to bring national and global attention to that region.
March 6, 2016: Announcement of Pure & Simple Tour
On March 6, 2016, Dolly Parton announced that she would be embarking on a tour in support of her new album, Pure & Simple.
May 6, 2016: Vow Renewal Announcement
On May 6, 2016, Dolly Parton announced that she and Carl Thomas Dean would renew their vows in honor of their 50th wedding anniversary later in the month.
November 2016: Coat of Many Colors Sequel
In November 2016, Dolly Parton also had a cameo in the sequel to Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors.
November 2016: Collaborations and Performance on The Voice
In November 2016, Dolly Parton released "Jolene" as a single with Pentatonix and performed on The Voice with Pentatonix and Miley Cyrus.
2016: My People Fund Established
In 2016, Dolly Parton established the "My People Fund" to provide financial relief to victims of the Great Smoky Mountains wildfires.
2016: Great Smoky Mountains Wildfires Relief Efforts
In response to the 2016 Great Smoky Mountains wildfires, Dolly Parton participated in a telethon and hosted her own, raising around $9 million for victims. Her "My People Fund" provided monthly assistance to affected families.
April 2017: Survey on Impact of My People Fund
In April 2017, the University of Tennessee College of Social Work conducted an initial survey of 100 recipients of the "My People Fund" emergency relief funds related to the 2016 wildfires. The survey covered housing, financial impact, health, and support sources.
December 2017: Follow-up Survey on My People Fund Impact
In December 2017, a follow-up survey was conducted on recipients of the "My People Fund" to assess the ongoing impact of the fund's financial relief on the 2016 wildfire victims.
2017: Estimated Net Worth
As of 2017, Dolly Parton's net worth was estimated at $500 million.
2017: Rainbow Album Appearance
In 2017, Dolly Parton appeared on Kesha's Rainbow album, performing a duet of "Old Flames Can't Hold a Candle to You".
February 2018: Donation of 100 Millionth Book
In February 2018, Dolly Parton donated her 100 millionth free book, a copy of Parton's children's picture book "Coat of Many Colors", to the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. She was honored by the Library of Congress for her charity sending out its 100 millionth book.
June 2018: Netflix Series Announcement
In June 2018, Dolly Parton announced an eight-part Netflix series, featuring her music career, where she is the executive producer and co-star.
2018: Hollywood Walk of Fame and Guinness World Records
In 2018, Dolly Parton received a second star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, inducted alongside Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris and was recognized in the Guinness World Records 2018 Edition.
2018: Twins Frieda Estelle and Floyd Estel Parton Death
In 2018, Dolly Parton's twin brothers Frieda Estelle and Floyd Estel Parton passed away.
2018: FBI Honors Parton for Wildfire Aid Work
In 2018, the FBI honored Dolly Parton with the 2018 Director's Community Leadership Award for her wildfire aid work, presented at FBI Headquarters in Washington.
July 2019: Appearance at Newport Folk Festival
In July 2019, Dolly Parton made a surprise appearance at the Newport Folk Festival in Rhode Island. She performed several songs alongside The Highwomen and Linda Perry during the festival in July 2019.
November 2019: Dolly Parton's Heartstrings Airs
In November 2019, Dolly Parton's Heartstrings aired on Netflix.
December 2019: Here I Am Documentary on Netflix
In December 2019, the biographical documentary Here I Am was added to the catalog of the Netflix streaming service.
April 10, 2020: Re-release of Classic Albums
On April 10, 2020, Dolly Parton re-released 93 songs from six of her classic albums: Little Sparrow, Halos & Horns, For God and Country, Better Day, Those Were The Days and Live and Well.
May 27, 2020: Release of "When Life Is Good Again"
On May 27, 2020, Dolly Parton released a new song called "When Life Is Good Again" to uplift spirits during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.
May 28, 2020: Premiere of "When Life Is Good Again" Music Video
On May 28, 2020, the music video for Dolly Parton's song "When Life Is Good Again" premiered on Time 100 talks.
October 2020: Release of "Pink" Single and 'A Holly Dolly Christmas' Album
In October 2020, Dolly Parton was featured on the single "Pink" alongside Monica, Jordin Sparks, Sara Evans, and Rita Wilson, released to support Breast Cancer Research. Also in October 2020, Parton released her album 'A Holly Dolly Christmas'.
November 2020: Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square Release
In November 2020, Dolly Parton produced and starred in the Netflix musical film Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square, which won her a Primetime Emmy Award.
2020: Grammy Award for "God Only Knows"
In 2020, Dolly Parton received a Grammy award for her collaboration with For King & Country on their song, "God Only Knows".
2020: Publication of 'Songteller: My Life in Lyrics'
In her 2020 book, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics, Dolly Parton wrote about her family and community influences, highlighting her mother's folk songs and her Aunt Dorothy Jo's musical talents.
March 2021: COVID-19 Vaccination
In March 2021, Dolly Parton was vaccinated against COVID-19 at Vanderbilt University, labeling it "Dolly gets a dose of her own medicine" and encouraging others to get vaccinated. Parton performed a song celebrating her vaccination, set to the tune of her song "Jolene".
November 2021: Grace and Frankie Guest Appearance
In November 2021, Dolly Parton was confirmed to be appearing in the final season of Grace and Frankie in a guest-starring role, reuniting with her 9 to 5 co-stars Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda.
2021: Chart Appearances Across Seven Decades
As of 2021, Dolly Parton had appeared on the country music charts in each of seven decades, which is the most of any artist.
2021: Rejection of Statue Proposal
In 2021, Dolly Parton requested the Tennessee legislature to remove a bill from consideration that proposed erecting a statue of her, stating that it was not appropriate at the time.
2021: Time 100
In 2021, Dolly Parton was included on the Time 100, Time's annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
2021: Randle Huston "Randy" Parton Death
In 2021, Dolly Parton's brother Randle Huston "Randy" Parton passed away.
2021: Release of "Does He Love You" Duet
In 2021, a duet version of the song "Does He Love You" with singer Reba McEntire was released.
July 2022: The Orville Appearance
In July 2022, Dolly Parton appeared as a simulation of herself on the sci-fi show The Orville in the episode "Midnight Blue".
October 2022: Announcement of No More Tours
In October 2022, Dolly Parton announced in an interview that she would no longer tour but would continue to play live shows occasionally.
November 5, 2022: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
On November 5, 2022, Dolly Parton was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
2022: Asteroid Named After Dolly Parton
In 2022, Asteroid (10731) Dollyparton, was named in honor of Dolly Parton.
2022: Courage and Civility Award
In late 2022, Dolly Parton received a $100-million Courage and Civility Award from Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, due to her charity work improving children's literacy.
December 31, 2022: Co-hosting Miley's New Year's Eve Party
On December 31, 2022, Dolly Parton co-hosted NBC's New Year's special, Miley's New Year's Eve Party.
January 17, 2023: Announcement of Rock Album 'Rockstar'
On January 17, 2023, Dolly Parton announced during an interview on The View that she would release her first rock album, titled 'Rockstar', later that year.
January 20, 2023: Release of "Gonna Be You" Soundtrack Single
On January 20, 2023, the soundtrack single "Gonna Be You" from the movie 80 for Brady was released. The song was written by Diane Warren and performed by Dolly Parton, Belinda Carlisle, Cyndi Lauper, Debbie Harry and Gloria Estefan.
May 11, 2023: Release of "World on Fire"
On May 11, 2023, Dolly Parton released "World on Fire" as the lead single from her upcoming rock album, and it quickly rose to number one a week later.
November 17, 2023: Release of "Rockstar" Album
On November 17, 2023, Dolly Parton released her rock album "Rockstar", featuring collaborations with Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Sting, Elton John, Sheryl Crow, Miley Cyrus and Lizzo, among others. The album received generally positive reviews.
2023: American Library Association Honorary Membership
In 2023, Dolly Parton was awarded American Library Association Honorary Membership.
2023: Rolling Stone's 200 Greatest Singers of All Time
In 2023, Dolly Parton was ranked at No. 27 on Rolling Stone's list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time.
2023: NFL Halftime Performance
On Thanksgiving 2023, Dolly Parton performed songs during halftime at the Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys NFL football game.
January 2024: New Humanist Magazine Interview
In January 2024, Dolly Parton discussed her liberal approach to faith in the January 2024 issue of New Humanist magazine, stating that she wouldn't even say she's religious, though she grew up with that background.
June 2024: Autobiographical Musical Announcement
In June 2024, Dolly Parton announced an autobiographical musical about her life and career. The musical was initially titled Hello, I'm Dolly and was scheduled to open on Broadway in 2026.
2024: Donation to Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
In 2024, Dolly Parton announced a donation of $2 million to relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, with $1 million coming personally and another $1 million through her businesses and the Dollywood Foundation.
2024: David Wilburn Parton Death
In 2024, Dolly Parton's brother David Wilburn Parton passed away.
February 14, 2025: Feature on Sabrina Carpenter's "Please Please Please"
On February 14, 2025, Dolly Parton was featured on Sabrina Carpenter's song "Please Please Please" on the deluxe edition of her album Short n' Sweet and its accompanying music video.
February 2025: Indiana Governor Declines Funding for Imagination Library
In February 2025, Indiana Governor Mike Braun declined to support a state 50% match for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. The Dollywood Foundation expressed hope that the funding would be restored.
March 3, 2025: Death of Carl Thomas Dean
Carl Thomas Dean, husband of Dolly Parton, passed away on March 3, 2025.
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 before in the United Kingdom.
June 23, 2025: Announcement of Las Vegas Residency
On June 23, 2025, it was announced that Dolly Parton would be embarking on a six-date Las Vegas residency, Dolly: Live in Las Vegas, at Caesars Palace.
October 2025: Opening of SongTeller Hotel and Museum Announcement
In October 2025, Dolly Parton announced that she would be opening her new SongTeller Hotel in downtown Nashville in partnership with the firm Herschend. Parton also will be opening her new Dolly's Life of Many Colors Museum.
October 29, 2025: Advance Tickets for Dolly's Life of Many Colors Museum
Advance tickets for Dolly Parton's Life of Many Colors Museum's opening in June 2026 went on sale on October 29, 2025.
December 2025: Postponement of Las Vegas Residency
Originally set for December 2025, Dolly Parton postponed her Las Vegas residency, Dolly: Live in Las Vegas, until September 2026 due to health procedures she would be undergoing.
September 2026: Rescheduled Las Vegas Residency
Dolly Parton's Las Vegas residency, Dolly: Live in Las Vegas, was rescheduled and set to begin in September 2026, after being postponed from December 2025.
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