Country music queen Dolly Parton dies at 80
Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Dolly Parton, a celebrated country music star known for hits like "Jolene" and "9 to 5," has reportedly died at the age of 80.
- The acclaimed singer-songwriter, who won 11 Grammy Awards, never performed a concert in France despite her popularity there.
- Her international fame included a significant following among LGBTQ+ fans and as an inspiration to artists like Taylor Swift.
Dolly Parton, the undisputed queen of country music, has reportedly passed away at the age of 80. The beloved singer-songwriter, renowned for timeless hits such as "Jolene" and "9 to 5," leaves behind a legacy of 11 Grammy Awards, including a prize for her lifetime achievement.
Despite her immense popularity in France, where fans and the LGBTQ+ community alike embraced her as an icon on par with Cher and Madonna, Parton never graced the country with a live concert. Her European performances were rare and primarily confined to English-speaking nations like Sweden, Ireland, and Great Britain.
Parton's influence extended beyond her own chart-topping songs, which also include "I Will Always Love You" and "Yellow Roses." She served as a significant role model for younger artists, notably Taylor Swift, who recognized Parton's impact on her own career. The iconic opening lines of "Jolene" remain instantly recognizable worldwide, a testament to her enduring musical impact.
Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.