Country Singer Dolly Parton Dies at 80
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Iconic American country singer Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80.
- Parton was known for worldwide hits such as "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You."
- Her family announced her passing, remembering her as someone who opened doors for musicians and dreamers.
Dolly Parton, the celebrated American country music singer, has passed away at the age of 80. Her family confirmed the news, remembering her as an artist who not only inspired generations of musicians but also "opened doors for dreamers from all walks of life."
Born in Tennessee in 1946 into a musical family, Parton rose to global fame with enduring hits like "Jolene" and the ballad "I Will Always Love You." Revered as the "Queen of Country Music," she amassed eleven Grammy Awards, including a lifetime achievement award. Throughout her career, she released nearly 50 studio albums and sold over 100 million records worldwide.
his aunt opened doors not only for generations of musicians but also for 'dreamers from all walks of life.'
Parton's influence extended beyond music. Over her more than 60-year career, she hosted a television show, acted in films, and founded Dollywood, a popular theme park in her native Tennessee. In recent times, Parton had canceled a series of concerts in Las Vegas due to health issues in the spring and fall of the previous year.
In her 2020 book, "Dolly Parton, Songteller," she reflected on her connection to spirituality, writing, "I feel closest to God when I'm writing." Her passing marks the end of an era for country music and leaves a void in the entertainment world.
I feel closest to God when I'm writing.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.