At 77, Dolly Parton remains a powerhouse in the entertainment world, and the rumors swirling about her have been confirmed: she is set to release her first-ever rock album, Rockstar. Dolly’s remarkable journey in the music industry, which spans decades, has largely focused on country music. With this new venture into rock, she proves yet again that she is not one to rest on her laurels, showing a willingness to challenge herself and explore new genres. This decision comes after her induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, an honor that initially left her feeling somewhat undeserving.
Reflecting on her feelings at the time, Dolly admitted, “I just didn’t feel like I had earned it.” This humility is part of what has endeared her to so many fans worldwide. Despite her initial reservations, the fans and voters insisted that she belonged in the Hall of Fame, recognizing her contributions to music as a whole, not just country. After much deliberation, Dolly accepted the honor, but not without a promise: she would release a rock album to validate her inclusion in the Hall of Fame.
This move was bold for someone who has been known as a country music legend for over 60 years. Dolly has always been a pioneer, from her early days with Porter Wagoner to becoming a solo sensation, producing hits like “Jolene” and “9 to 5.” Now, at 77, she’s proving that it’s never too late to take on new challenges and embrace opportunities that push the boundaries of her comfort zone.
Rockstar – A Star-Studded Project
The album, titled Rockstar, is set to release on November 17 and will include a whopping 30 tracks. Nine of these tracks are original songs, while the remaining 21 are covers or collaborations with some of the most iconic names in rock music. These collaborations are not only a testament to Dolly’s musical versatility but also a reflection of her stature in the music world. For example, one of the standout tracks on the album is a cover of “Every Breath You Take,” where she teams up with Sting. Dolly’s goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, joins her for a new take on the hit song “Wrecking Ball.”
Some of the other big names featured on the album include Sir Elton John, Paul McCartney, and Stevie Nicks. This impressive lineup is a dream for music lovers across generations, showcasing how Dolly has transcended genre boundaries to create something that appeals to fans of all ages.
Reflecting on this monumental project, Dolly expressed, “I am very honored and privileged to have worked with some of the greatest iconic singers and musicians of all time, and to be able to sing all the iconic songs throughout the album was a joy beyond measure.” This statement encapsulates the gratitude and excitement she feels about venturing into this new genre. Her collaborators have similarly expressed admiration for her, noting her professionalism, work ethic, and unyielding passion for music.
A Legacy That Defies Age
Dolly’s decision to create a rock album at 77 is a reminder that age is merely a number. She has always been an artist who defies expectations, and her continued creativity and drive are proof that the passion for one’s craft doesn’t diminish with time. The creation of Rockstar not only cements her legacy as one of the most versatile performers in the music industry but also serves as an inspiration to people everywhere who may feel that certain dreams are out of reach due to age.
Her induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was a turning point that challenged her to rise to the occasion. Dolly explained on The View that she wasn’t entirely sure she deserved the honor when it was first announced, but she made a vow to earn her place. “But if I’m gonna be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, I’m gonna have to do something to earn it,” she said. And she certainly has.
While country music has always been her forte, Dolly has shown an impressive ability to adapt to the ever-changing music landscape. From her collaborations with artists outside of her traditional genre to the creation of Dollywood and her philanthropic efforts, she continues to broaden her influence in ways that few artists can match.
The Tracklist – A Journey Through Rock History
The album Rockstar offers something for everyone, with both classic rock lovers and newer music fans finding common ground. The extensive tracklist includes famous covers like “Purple Rain,” originally by Prince, “Heart of Glass” featuring Debbie Harry, and a collaboration with Elton John on “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.” Each of these songs will offer a fresh take, uniquely influenced by Dolly’s signature style.
Other highlights include “I Hate Myself for Loving You” featuring Joan Jett, “Night Moves” with Chris Stapleton, and “Stairway to Heaven” with Lizzo and Sasha Flute. These collaborations span generations and genres, creating a melting pot of musical excellence that is sure to captivate listeners.
Dolly has always been a bridge between generations, and this album is no different. By including modern-day artists like Miley Cyrus and Lizzo, she ensures that Rockstar appeals not only to her longtime fans but also to a younger audience that might be less familiar with her earlier work.
Conclusion – A Courageous Step Forward
At a time when many artists of her age are content to rest on their laurels, Dolly Parton is still pushing the envelope. Her decision to release a rock album at 77 is not just a testament to her talent, but also to her unrelenting drive to grow as an artist. With Rockstar, she is proving that no matter where you are in life, it’s never too late to reinvent yourself and pursue new passions.
Fans around the world eagerly await the release of this album, and given Dolly’s track record, it’s safe to say that she will not disappoint. Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or a rock enthusiast, there’s no denying that Rockstar will be one of the most talked-about albums of the year.