Dolly Parton, queen of country music, dies at 80

Nashville, Tenn. (AP) — Dolly Parton, the celebrated country music icon whose powerful vocals, heartfelt songwriting and distinctive fashion defined her rise from a humble log cabin in the Tennessee hills to international stardom, has passed away at the age of 80 in her hometown. Her publicist, Marcel Pariseau, announced her death, stating that she bravely battled a brief illness but departed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

Parton, renowned for her resonant vibrato, theatrical performances and quirky costumes, rose from her roots as a poor Tennessee family to become one of the most beloved figures in music and beyond, captivating generations across borders and political divides. She penned over 100 million-selling songs, including timeless classics such as "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," and the anthem "I Will Always Love You."

Her musical journey began in the church where her grandfather, a preacher, served as her religious mentor, and by the age of 10, she was already learning the guitar and performing on local TV shows. At 13, she graced the Grand Ole Opry stage, where Johnny Cash introduced her as a young girl from East Tennessee.

With that suitcase of songs, she moved to Nashville in 1964, following her songwriter uncle Bill Owens. Fred Foster, a producer known for his work with Roy Orbison and Willie Nelson, recognized her talent and secured her a record deal with RCA. Parton's partnership with country star Porter Wagoner became a pivotal moment in her career, as he championed her to achieve a record deal and introduced her to a new style blending country and pop.

Their duets, including the hit "The Last Thing on My Mind," brought her numerous radio hits, while her solo work gradually gained recognition.

The breakthrough came with "Jolene" in 1973, a song that became a country standard and a crossover hit, propelling Parton to new heights. Its powerful message of protecting one's love resonated widely, and the song's success led to international recognition. Parton's solo success continued with hits like "I Will Always Love You," which won her two consecutive Country Music Association awards for Female Vocalist in 1975 and 1976.

Beyond her music, Parton was a dedicated philanthropist and entrepreneur. She founded the Imagination Library, a literacy initiative that mailed free books to children in Tennessee, stemming from her father's struggles with illiteracy. Her ventures included a theme park in the Smoky Mountains, further showcasing her creative flair and generosity.

Dolly Parton's influence transcended music, making her a cherished figure in popular culture. Her ability to blend genres, her generosity, and her enduring appeal cemented her legacy as a true icon of American entertainment.