Dolly Parton, country music legend, dies at 80
Dolly Parton, the iconic country music singer-songwriter and cultural phenomenon, passed away at the age of 80 on August 25, 2026. Born in poverty in rural Tennessee in 1946, she began performing at the age of ten and made her mark on the Grand Ole Opry at thirteen. Her breakthrough came in 1973 when she penned the hits "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You," establishing her as a formidable songwriter.
Parton's career spanned genres, earning her 25 Billboard country No. 1 singles and appearing on 47 albums in the country Top 10. In 1980, she achieved crossover success with the Oscar-nominated "9 to 5." Beyond her music, Parton was a savvy businesswoman, investing in Dollywood and co-founding Sandollar Productions. Her philanthropic efforts, including the Imagination Library and relief for wildfire victims, demonstrated her commitment to community.
Her enduring legacy is marked by her music, business acumen, and unwavering generosity, leaving an indelible mark on American culture.
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