Dolly Parton Diving Into Her Family Heritage in New Album & Documentary Series
Dolly Parton is shining a light on the legacy of her family. As many fans know, Parton grew up in a one-room cabin in rural Tennessee with eleven brothers and sisters. At a young age, Parton’s Uncle Bill Owens noticed her talent, helped her develop her musical abilities and encouraged her to move to Nashville to pursue her dreams of becoming a star. Of course, the rest is history as Parton not only became a successful musician but an entrepreneur with her very own theme park in Tennessee.
Dolly Parton/Owepar Entertainment
Even after becoming famous, Parton never forgot her roots and has always stayed humble. Now, she is looking into her family’s storied history in a new album and four-part docuseries called Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith & Fables. While the album won’t be released until November 15, 2024, fans can pre-order the album and get the first two tracks on June 21, plus see the full tracklist.
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Parton shared about the projects, “I cannot believe that it has been 60 years this month since I graduated from Sevier County High School and moved to Nashville to pursue my dreams. My Uncle Bill Owens was by my side for many years helping me develop my music. I owe so much to him and all the family members past and present who have inspired me along this journey. I am honored to spotlight our families’ musical legacy that is my Smoky Mountain DNA.”
Remind The album and documentary will showcase Parton’s family history, including the Partons and her mother’s family, the Owens. It traces their history from the United Kingdom in the 1600s all the way to their home in the Great Smoky Mountains, paying tribute to the music and culture of Appalachia. The album was truly a family affair as it was produced by her cousin, Richie Owens and many of her family members, even voices of those who have passed away, appear in the tracks of the album.
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The docuseries will be a companion to the album and look at her family’s history, with interviews from several family members, with a focus on her grandfather, Reverend Jake Owens. Parton credits her grandpa for giving her a love of music and storytelling and respect for faith and family. The docuseries will also contain concert performances at Knoxville’s historic Bijou Theater. For any Dolly fans who love learning about her past, this sounds like a dream come true. Stay tuned for more details on when and where the docuseries will premiere.
Queens of Country
November 2019
Get your toes-tapping as we give a nod to the queens of classic country music.
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