Dolly Parton is a true icon who is undoubtedly one of the most successful country music stars ever. From humble beginnings in rural Tennessee, she has risen to become a beloved songwriter, actress, and philanthropist. Her career spans over six decades, during which she has produced countless hits and won numerous awards, including Grammys, Emmys, and Golden Globes.
But it's not just Dolly's talent that sets her apart. She is known for her infectious personality, signature style, and unwavering commitment to giving back to her community. Whether through her Imagination Library literacy program, or her many charitable donations, she has touched the lives of millions. Here are some historical pictures documenting her extraordinary and inspiring life over the years.
"9 to 5," FEMINIST, HUMOUROUS, AND EMPOWERING
This black and white snap captures a moment from Dolly Parton's breakout role in the 1980 comedy film "9 to 5," where she starred alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. The movie was a massive success, becoming an iconic feminist film, grossing over $103.9 million.
She also released the song "9 to 5" to promote the film, and it quickly became one of her most successful singles.
Next: We see Dolly in the early '80s when she transitioned to pop music.
PARTON IN THE EARLY '80S
Dolly Parton's iconic pink satin dress, which she wore during New York's premiere of "9 to 5," resembles the princess-style outfits popularized in the '80s. The decade would mark a pivotal transition for Dolly as she moved away from her country roots and became a prominent figure in the pop music scene.
Despite this shift, her singles continued dominating the national charts, with 12 Top-10 hits between 1981 and 1985.
Next: Dolly crosses paths with Hollywood A-lister Sylvester Stallone.
DOLLY AND ROCKY
This black and white snapshot of Sylvester Stallone and Dolly Parton, taken at the premiere of their film "Rhinestone," is a nostalgic reminder of a time when musical comedies were trending in Hollywood. Released in 1984, "Rhinestone" was a musical comedy showcasing Sylvester's incredible singing and dancing talents.
Although the film did not do well commercially, this photograph still captures the chemistry and charm of these two legendary stars.
Next: We see Dolly making yet another headline-making career change.
THE RIVER UNBROKEN SINGLE COVER
This stunning snapshot of Dolly Parton was for the cover of her 1987 single "The River Unbroken" from her well-received pop album Rainbow. While the album was not one of her most successful, it marked her last foray into the pop genre before returning to her roots in country music.
However, her career extended beyond music. She began her philanthropic work during this time with the launch of her Dollywood Foundation.
Next: We discover how Dolly met her manager.
AN ICONIC DUO: DOLLY AND SANDY
In 1976, Dolly Parton appeared on "The Mac Davis Show," and it was during the appearance that she met her future manager, Sandy Gallin. This photograph, captured then, has become notable and is often referenced when discussing Dolly's early career.
Speaking about Sandy, Dolly once stated that he was like a father, a brother, and a friend all rolled into one and was one of the smartest people she'd met.
Next: Dolly returns to Hollywood for another project.
THE FILM STRAIGHT TALK
Here, we see Dolly Parton beaming while promoting her film "Straight Talk" in 1992. In the movie, Dolly plays a woman who moves to Chicago to pursue her dream of becoming a radio talk show host.
Barnet Kellman directed the film, and it also starred James Woods. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, "Straight Talk" was a moderate success at the box office, grossing over $21 million worldwide.
Next: We take a look at Dolly's iconic pink dress.
"9 TO 5" NEW YORK PREMIERE
Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda are photographed at the New York premiere of "9 to 5" in 1980. The classic feminist comedy follows three women as they plot revenge against their s*xist boss. The film's title track, which Dolly also sang, became a significant hit, receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.
Tomlin and Fonda are long-time activists, with the former supporting LGBT rights and environmental issues. In 2019, Fonda gained attention for her weekly protests against climate change in Washington, D.C., called Fire Drill Fridays.
Next: A sparkling Dolly dazzles.
ANOTHER COUNTRY ALBUM
Dolly Parton's unapologetic love of sparkly attire is one of the defining features of her look, and her glittering jumpsuit on the" White Limozeen" album cover is no exception. The country music legend has always been drawn to glitz and glamor, often wearing bedazzled costumes and high-shine accessories.
She has stated that she believes in creating an image larger than life, and her love of sparkles is a crucial part of that.
Next: Time magazine interviews Dolly in the 1970s.
TIME MAGAZINE INTERVIEW
This photograph of Dolly Parton leaning against a van with a Tennessee license plate, taken by Henry Horenstein for Time Magazine in 1978, is a significant image that captures Dolly's rural roots and humble beginnings. She's standing outside her childhood home in Locust Ridge, Tennessee, where she grew up in poverty in a large family.
This portrait showcases her natural beauty and down-to-earth personality, which have been at the core of her appeal for decades.
Next: Dolly crosses paths with Hollywood icon Burt Reynolds.
DOLLY AT A PROMOTIONAL EVENT
This photograph, taken at a promotional event for "The Best Little Wh*rehouse in Texas" in 1988, features Dolly Parton wearing a dress with oversized, puffy sleeves. The film was an adaptation of a successful Broadway musical and starred Dolly alongside Burt Reynolds.
Despite reportedly having difficulty working with Burt, her dedication to her craft and fans was evident. She even famously pushed for a romantic angle between the leading characters.
Next: Dolly channels her inner hippie in the 1970s.
1977 - DOLLY'S BREAKOUT YEAR
Captured in 1977, Dolly Parton is all smiles in this colored photo. Her outfit is notably more relaxed than the flamboyant ensembles she would later become known for in the '80s. Her soft curls frame her face while she pairs double denim with a Woodstock-inspired flower headband.
It was a pivotal year for her, as 1977 saw the release of her album "Here You Come Again," which became her first million-seller.
Next: A fresh-faced Dolly sports a popular 1960s hairstyle.
ALREADY A PROLIFIC SONGWRITER AT AGE 20
In 1966, Dolly Parton posed for an iconic black-and-white photograph in Nashville, Tennessee. With a beehive hairstyle and side-swept bangs, Dolly wore minimal makeup in the photo. During this period, she worked hard to establish herself as a singer-songwriter, performing at local bars and clubs.
Her single "Put It Off Until Tomorrow," featuring previously uncredited harmony vocals for Bill Phillips' recording, reached number six, further cementing her reputation as a rising star.
Next: Dolly's fabulous hair gets even bigger.
THE HIGHER THE HAIR, THE CLOSER TO HEAVEN
Dolly Parton's hair has become an iconic part of her signature style, and in the '60s, her hairstyles were no exception. She often wore her blonde locks in elaborate, towering updos with maximum volume. She has famously said that the higher the hair, the closer to heaven.
Her big hair was not only a fashion statement but also a symbol of her confidence and individuality.
Next: Discover how Dolly caught the eye of Porter Wagoner and got her big break.
WAGONER AND PARTON
In the late '60s, Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner became a dynamic duo on "The Porter Wagoner Show," the most popular syndicated show in America. With each 30-minute episode, the two performers and a special guest captivated audiences with their palpable on-screen chemistry.
Though the network originally filmed the show in black and white, it was converted to technicolor when Dolly joined, giving viewers a vivid glimpse of the pair's performances. However, the fan-favorite duo would soon part ways.
Next: Dolly’s most iconic hit.
I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU
After seven years of working together on ''The Porter Wagoner Show,'' Dolly Parton decided to leave the show and pursue a solo career. To bid farewell to her long-time collaborator and friend, she penned the heartfelt ballad "I Will Always Love You."
What a heartfelt way to say goodbye! The emotional tune showcasing Dolly's signature vocals and sincere lyrics became a chart-topping hit and became even more popular when Whitney Houston recorded it.
Next: See one of Dolly's rarest photos.
DOLLY WITHOUT A WIG
Here's a rare shot from the '60s. Interestingly, Dolly Parton's natural look here bears a striking resemblance to her goddaughter Miley Cyrus. The country crooner always remained true to her roots, and her hit song "My Tennessee Mountain Home" celebrates the simple life she enjoys with her family.
It's a glimpse into a side of her we rarely see, highlighting what she probably looks like in her everyday life.
Next: How Dolly met her future husband.
DOLLY MEETS HER HUSBAND AT A LAUNDROMAT
Dolly Parton met her husband, Carl Dean, at a laundromat in Nashville, Tennessee, when she was just 18 years old. The two were instantly smitten with each other and soon began dating. Despite her fame and success, she has always been fiercely private about her relationship with Dean.
Many fans have never even seen a photograph of him. However, Dolly has often spoken publicly about her love for her husband, describing him as her rock and soulmate.
Next: Dolly looks angelic in pink.
GORGEOUS FIGURE; IS IT ALL NATURAL?
Dolly Parton is known not only for her incredible talent but also for her exaggerated, hourglass figure. In interviews, she has openly admitted to undergoing several plastic surgeries to achieve her iconic look, including breast augmentation and liposuction.
Despite the criticism she has faced for altering her appearance, Dolly has always maintained a positive attitude and a sense of humor about the subject. She has said that she doesn't mind being known for her curves.
Next: She isn't all beauty with no brains.
PARTON IS KNOWN FOR HER WISDOM
Dolly Parton is known for her exaggerated, hourglass figure. In interviews, she has openly admitted to undergoing several plastic surgeries to achieve her iconic look, including breast augmentation and liposuction.
Despite criticism for altering her appearance, Dolly has always maintained a positive attitude and a sense of humor about the subject. She has said that she doesn't mind being known for her curves. However, she isn't a beauty with no brains.
Next: See the other side of this glittering country music diva.
STRUGGLES OF WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE
Here Dolly Parton's pictured using a typewriter in the film "9 to 5." Although women had been working for many years by the '80s, they still faced many challenges, including discrimination, unequal pay, and limited opportunities for advancement.
''9 to 5'' became a cultural phenomenon, helping raise awareness of feminist issues. Dolly's unforgettable portrayal has made her an icon of feminism, inspiring many women to stand up for themselves.
Next: Discover the power of the movie's chart-topping soundtrack.
PARTON'S SINGLE BECOMES A WORKER'S UNION ANTHEM
Dolly Parton's single "9 to 5" became a cultural touchstone and a union anthem. Many labor activists adopted the song as their rallying cry, using its lyrics to draw attention to the issues of workplace inequality and the need for unions.
In 2011, the song played at the Wisconsin Capitol during protests against Governor Scott Walker's proposal to strip collective bargaining rights from public workers. It is a testament to Dolly's powerful lyrics, songwriting skills, and enduring relevance through the decades.
Next: Dolly in her fabulous 30s.
PARTON IN HER EARLY 30S
His sister rediscovered a candid portrait of Dolly Parton taken by photographer Gene Spatz in the '70s or '80s, decades later. The photo captures Dolly in her early thirties as she attempted to expand her music beyond Nashville's country scene.
Gene Spatz was a well-known celebrity photographer and music promoter who photographed iconic celebrities, including Michael Jackson and Bruce Springsteen. Despite his prolific career, much of Spatz's work was lost or forgotten, making his collection's rediscovery a headline-making moment.
Next: Dolly's 20th Studio album.
HEARTBREAKER; DOLLY'S 20TH STUDIO ALBUM
This stunning photograph was taken in Los Angeles in February 1978 as part of the promotional campaign for Dolly Parton's 20th studio album, "Heartbreaker," a treat for pop lovers.
As one of the most popular country music artists of the time, Dolly was well-positioned to capitalize on the popularity of disco and cross over into the pop charts. "Heartbreaker" was a commercial success, spending nine weeks at the top of the Billboard Top Country Albums chart.
Next: Dolly ventures across the pond.
DOLLY'S MUSICAL JOURNEY ACROSS THE POND
Dolly Parton's album release across the Pond in 1975 clearly indicated her global appeal. The Best of Dolly Parton Volume 2, featuring her biggest hits like "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You," achieved massive success in the United Kingdom.
The back cover of the album, sporting a stunning photograph of Dolly in a tight floral jumpsuit, only enhanced the record's allure. This release marked the beginning of Dolly''s successful career in Europe, where she has gained a loyal fanbase and continues to tour regularly.
Next: Dolly hits the Grammys.
1977 GRAMMY AWARDS
In 1977, Dolly Parton's appearance at the Grammy Awards was iconic. Her flamboyant outfit and larger-than-life hair left a lasting impression on audiences. She teased her hair to reach an unprecedented height. According to sources, her stylist used a whole can of hairspray to keep it all in place.
Dolly has managed to maintain her signature look in every decade, all the while keeping it modern. Making shiny outfits classy is no easy task, but not for Dolly, a testament to her fashion icon status.
Next: The A-list star's love for rhinestones.
MORE OF THE RHINESTONE ERA
Here we see Dolly Parton pictured with Sylvester Stallone, head back as she laughs. It's from the release of their film "Rhinestone," the premise was based on Dolly's character teaching Rocky how to sing and dance like a real country star.
Unfortunately, the film was not a commercial success; however, both co-stars told the press that they had a great time on set and thoroughly enjoyed working together.
Next: Dolly gives rap music a shot.
SURPRISE RAP PERFORMANCE
In 2019, Dolly Parton made a surprise appearance at the Newport Folk Festival and performed a rap written initially for Queen Latifah. She donned a sparkly jumpsuit for the performance, which added to the excitement of the already-surprised crowd.
Initially intended for the 1999 film "Steel Magnolias," producers never used the track. Dolly put her own spin on the rap during the performance, making it uniquely hers.
Next: See Dolly with one of her oldest friends, Lily Tomlin.
TALENTED, HUMOUROUS, AND SUPPORTIVE
Dolly Parton and Lily Tomlin have been close friends for several decades. The two actresses first worked together on the 1980 film "9 to 5" and have remained friends ever since. They have collaborated on other projects, including the television adaptation of "9 to 5" and the Netflix original series "Grace and Frankie."
Tomlin is a legendary actress and comedian known for her iconic performances in films like "Nashville," "All of Me," and "Grandma."
Next: Dolly shows off yet another of her skills.
DOLLY PARTON SHINES WITH BEDAZZLED SAXOPHONE
A photo shared by the singer on her Twitter page during her 2016 tour showcases yet another skill: playing the saxophone. The instrument in the picture is not just any old saxophone; the bedazzled masterpiece perfectly encapsulates Dolly's love for all things that sparkle.
Along with her stunning vocal abilities, Dolly is a multi-instrumentalist, playing the guitar, banjo, violin, dulcimer, piano, and autoharp with equal skill.
Next: Dolly poses for another iconic photo to promote her self-named theme park, Dollywood.
PROMOTING DOLLYWOOD
Dolly Parton started Dollywood, her namesake theme park, in 1986 to give back to the community where she grew up. The park is in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and has since become the state's biggest ticketed attraction. In 2016, Dollywood became home to the world's fastest wooden roller coaster, the Lightning Rod.
This photograph was a promotional image for Dollywood in the '80s. It caused controversy then but has since become an iconic photograph of the Tennesse native.
Next: We explore Dolly's humble beginnings.
FROM RAGS TO RICHES
Dolly Parton is pictured here in 1949, around age three. She was born on January 19, 1946, in Sevier County, Tennessee. Her parents were Robert Lee Parton, a farmer and construction worker, and Avie Lee Owens Parton, a homemaker. She was the fourth of 12 children.
Despite growing up in a humble home without electricity or running water, Dolly's parents instilled in her a love of music and a strong work ethic.
Next: See the megastar at the tender age of nine.
DOLLY POSES FOR A PICTURE IN TENNESSEE
Dolly Parton was only nine years old when he posed for this picture in her home state of Tennessee. This photograph also served as a cover for her single "Puppy Love," released in 1959.
The song drew inspiration from her childhood crush on a boy named Johnny in her hometown of Sevierville, Tennessee. While the single did not achieve commercial success, it helped showcase her talent as a songwriter and singer at a young age.
Next: Dolly poses with her family.
A WHOLE LOT OF SIBLINGS
This rare black-and-white photograph of Dolly Parton with her entire family dates back to Christmas Eve in 1960. The picture captures Dolly standing on the top right with her parents and 10 out of her 11 siblings.
Mom and Dad were supportive of her from a young age. Dolly's parents were musically talented and encouraged their children to pursue music. Her family would sing together at home and perform at local events.
Next: We see the singer posing for a high school portrait.
YEARBOOK PORTRAIT
In 1960, Dolly Parton posed for the Sevier County High School yearbook portrait, wearing a collared shirt and a cardigan with a smile on her face. She'd made her ''Grand Ole Opry'' debut in 1959, thanks to her Uncle Billy Owen, a performer on the show. He arranged for her to audition and even drove her to Nashville.
The experience inspired Dolly to pursue a music career, and her uncle gifted the young star her first guitar.
Next: Dolly receives an offer she couldn't refuse.
THE PETER WAGONER SHOW
Dolly Parton is pictured here in 1967 with Peter Wagoner. This snapshot shows the young singer's early days in the music industry. Wagoner became a mentor to Dolly and helped her gain exposure and success in the music industry.
He invited her to join his television show as a regular performer, which helped Dolly gain nationwide exposure. The two would go on to release chart-topping duets and even won a Grammy together.
Next: The accolades start pouring in.
PARTON'S FIRST AWARD
Dolly Parton is posing with Porter Wagoner, Roy Clark, and Merle Haggard at the 1970 Country Music Association Awards. That evening, the pair won the Vocal Duo of the Year award, and in 1968, the duo also won the Vocal Group of the Year.
That same year, they were nominated for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal for their song "Just Someone I Used to Know."
Next: this was just the beginning for Dolly, and her star would only shine brighter.
MORE CHART-TOPPERS
Dolly Parton famously posed for this photo in 1974 when she parted ways with Peter Wagoner over creative differences. In the same year, she released her album "Jolene," which included the hit single of the same name.
The album also included the famous song "I Will Always Love You," which has arguably become one of her most recognizable and beloved hits. That year, she won the Country Music Association's Female Vocalist of the Year award for the first time.
Next: Dolly gets a talk show.
TALK SHOW HOST
In 1976, Dolly Parton hosted her variety show titled "Dolly!" She is pictured here with Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris, and all three are dressed like hippies, reflecting the fashion of the times.
The project lasted only a short time. Some speculate that the show's cancellation was due to the rising popularity of sitcoms during that time, while others attribute it to the high production costs of the variety show format. It wouldn't be Dolly's last attempt at hosting a television show.
Next: Dolly meets Royalty.
SHE MEETS THE QUEEN AND PRINCE PHILLIP
In 1977, Dolly Parton met Queen Elizabeth II during the Queen's Silver Jubilee tour of Scotland. Dolly came to perform at a command performance in Edinburgh, where she had the opportunity to meet the queen and Prince Philip. The meeting took place at the Royal Highland Showground in Edinburgh.
She wore a white dress with a matching cowboy hat and boots, which highly contrasted with the queen's traditional evening attire.
Next: Dolly teams up with the legendary diva Cher.
DOLLY AND CHER
In 1978, Dolly Parton appeared on ABC's "Cher… Special," hosted by Cher. The show was a star-studded event featuring artists like Elton John and Rod Stewart. Dolly and Cher performed a medley of their hit songs, including "Two Doors Down," "Here You Come Again," and "Love Is Like A Butterfly."
Cher's dark hair contrasted sharply with Dolly's blonde locks during their appearance on the show, leaving fans mesmerized.
Next: Our photographic journey continues as Dolly meets the American President.
EMBRACING A PRESIDENT
In 1979, Dolly Parton had the opportunity to meet President Jimmy Carter at the White House. As she greeted him, she famously embraced him, causing a moment of surprise for the President and First Lady Rosalynn Carter. This meeting was not just a casual encounter; Dolly had specially arranged it herself on a mission to promote literacy.
The two discussed her Imagination Library program, which provided free books to children, and the President was supportive of her initiative.
Next: Discover Dolly's award-season victories.
GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINATIONS
Dolly Parton received her first Golden Globe nomination in 1981 for her role in the hit film "9 to 5." Produced by Dolly, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin, it tells the story of three women who take on their chauvinistic boss.
Fans loved Dolly's performance as the sassy and outspoken secretary Doralee Rhodes, and it earned her nominations for Best Supporting Actress and Best Original Song. The film also helped pave the way for more female-led comedies and feminist storylines in Hollywood.
Next: Another look at Dolly's project ''Rhinestones.''
MORE "RHINESTONE" FACTS
Dolly Parton's and Sylvester Stallone's film "Rhinestone" was surprisingly a disappointment. Despite its star power, the film was a critical and commercial flop. It received several negative reviews, with some critics calling it one of the year's worst films.
It landed nominations for several Razzie Awards, including Worst Picture, Worst Actor for Stallone, and Worst Actress for Dolly. The film's lack of success was unexpected, given the popularity of its stars at the time.
Next: Discover how it wasn't all bad news for the pair.
HOLLY WOOD WALK OF FAME
In 1984, Dolly Parton was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, California. It was to recognize her contributions to the music industry and entertainment. Her co-star Stallone, fans, and well-wishers surrounded Dolly as she accepted the honor.
The event was broadcast live on national television, and Dolly gave a heartfelt speech in which she thanked her fans and supporters for their love and encouragement throughout her career.
Next: The country music superstar meets Kenny Rogers.
KENNY ROGERS AND DOLLY PARTON
In August 1984, Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers put on their Santa, and Mrs. Claus suits for a promotional photoshoot for their TV special "Kenny & Dolly: A Christmas to Remember." They were shooting the project in August, and word soon spread, creating anticipation for the upcoming special.
This promotional photo of this adorable pair in costume remains a classic image of the duo's long-lasting friendship and creative collaborations.
Next: Dolly proves she's the ultimate maestro of Hollywood teamwork.
QUEEN OF COLLABORATIONS
In this photo, Dolly Parton poses with Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris. Their first collaboration was in 1987 with the release of their album “Trio,” which received critical acclaim and commercial success, earning a Grammy Award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
The trio released their second successful album in 1999. Both albums showcased their vocal harmonies and diverse musical styles, including country, folk, and bluegrass.
Next: Dolly gives hosting a television show another shot.
BACK TO TELEVISION
Dolly Parton made her second attempt at television with "Dolly" in 1987, a variety program that saw her entertain some of the biggest celebrities in the world. While the show featured a host of famous guests, in reality, her parents made a lasting impression.
During a special Thanksgiving episode, Dolly reunited with her family outside the one-room hut where she spent her childhood. Despite its star-studded lineup, the show only lasted one year with 22 episodes.
Next: See the star at Dollywood.
DOLLY VISITS DOLLYWOOD
In 1988, Dolly Parton made a special visit to Dollywood, the theme park she had opened in her hometown of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, just a few years earlier. The visit was part of a promotional tour for her album ''White Limozeen.''
During her visit, she performed at the park and greeted fans. Dolly also donated many prized items, including a replica of her childhood home, several personal memorabilia, and her first bedazzled guitar.
Next: Hollywood comes calling again.
STEEL MAGNOLIAS
This rare historical photo dates from 1989 with Dolly Parton and the cast of the movie "Steel Magnolias." The photograph captured a moment where Dolly and her co-stars Olympia Dukakis, Shirley MacLaine, Sally Field, Daryl Hannah, and Julia Roberts gathered for a promotional group shot.
The film explores the relationships of a group of Southern women, and Dolly's character, Truvy Jones, is the town's charismatic hairdresser with a heart of gold.
Next: Dolly hits a bump in the road.
TOUGH TIMES
During the '90s, Dolly Parton's albums failed to achieve the same commercial success as her previous records. Despite releasing several albums during this decade, including "White Limozeen" and "Eagle When She Flies," none achieved the same chart-topping success as her earlier works.
Critics pointed out that her music style had not evolved with the audience's changing tastes, and her brand of traditional country music did not resonate with younger listeners.
Next: Discover how Dolly achieved success in the new millennium.
SUCCESS IN THE '00S
This vintage photograph of Dolly Parton is from 1977 at the Fourth Annual American Music Awards in Santa Monica, California. Despite the '90s not being her best decade, she achieved more success in the '00s.
Her album "Halos & Horns," released in 2002, received a Grammy nomination for Best Country Album, and she won two Grammy Awards for her bluegrass albums "The Grass Is Blue" from 2000 and "Little Sparrow" released in 2001. She also earned a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy in 2011.
Next: A young and carefree Dolly dazzles the camera.
DOLLY AT 24
Dolly Parton looks as stunning as ever in the photograph taken when she was only 24. She moved to Nashville at 18 to pursue her music career and had already scored hits with songs like "Dumb Blonde" and "Just Because I'm a Woman."
In 1967, she released her debut album, "Hello, I'm Dolly," which contained the hit song "Dumb Blonde." She was also a regular performer on "The Porter Wagoner Show," a popular TV program in those days.
Next: Discover just how multi-talented this country music superstar really is.
MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST
Here, we see Dolly Parton playing the Banjo, one of the many instruments she plays. She is also dazzling in her signature style, which includes a sparkly jumpsuit and big hair.
Her unique fashion sense is not just for show but also for her to express herself and connect with her audience. Dolly has candidly shared that her style reflects her personality, her roots in rural Tennessee, and her love for glamour and showmanship.
Next: Celebrating a true living legend.
A TRUE ICON
From her early years as a budding artist to iconic fashion statements and memorable performances, these images capture the essence of Dolly's unique persona and enduring legacy. As one of the most celebrated musicians of our time, her photos showcase Dolly's unwavering spirit, boundless talent, and dedication to her craft.
Whether it's a rare snapshot or a mass-produced promotional image, these historical Polaroid moments serve as a testament to Dolly's remarkable journey and her impact on generations of fans worldwide.