Five of Dolly Parton's best songs explained
From Jolene to I Will Always Love You, Dolly Parton wrote many classics. Here we explore the stories behind some of her most popular songs.
Dolly Parton, the American musician, actor, author, and philanthropist who passed away at the age of 80, won the 2026 Academy of Country Music Poet's Award in 2025. She accepted the honor virtually due to recent health issues, including dizziness and dehydration. Songwriting, she said, was the most important part of who she was creatively, serving as her therapy, release, and joy. Throughout her career, Parton wrote numerous hit songs that have resonated with audiences worldwide.
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