How Dolly Parton Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

How the contributions of Dolly Parton continue to shape the world today.

Dolly Parton is a celebrated American singer, songwriter, musician, actress, and philanthropist, prominently known for her contributions to country music. Her career began in 1967 with the release of her debut album, "Hello, I'm Dolly," and has since spanned 60 years and 49 studio albums. Parton's forty-ninth solo studio album, "Rockstar" (2023), marked a significant achievement, reaching number three on the Billboard 200, her highest charting album to date.

Sections (5)

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

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 (10731) Dollyparton, formerly known as 1998 BL3, was discovered.

April 14, 2004: Living Legend Medal from the 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.

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.

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 of contributions to the arts. Carrie Underwood performed "Islands in the Stream" with Rogers, Krauss performed "Jolene" and duetted "Coat of Many Colors" with Twain, and McEntire and Reese Witherspoon also paid tribute.

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2015: Lichen Species Named in Honor of Dolly Parton

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.

2017: Net Worth Estimation

As of 2017, Dolly Parton's net worth is estimated at $500 million.

2020: Inspiration from Family and Community

In her 2020 book, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics, Dolly Parton credits much of her inspiration to her family and community, particularly her mother and Aunt Dorothy Jo.