Throughout her illustrious 60-year career, Dolly Parton has been known as the “Queen of Country.”
However, recently, the “9 to 5” singer wondered whether fans still consider her a country music star.
“I do so many things, sometimes I wonder if I’m still considered a country artist,” Parton, 78, said on “CBS Mornings” on Wednesday. “Even though I’m a country girl … I’ve had the opportunity to do things like rock albums … movies … but I’m not sure.”
DOLLY PARTON’S BROTHER, DAVID WILBURN PARTON, DEAD AT 82
Dolly Parton has been a country music star for decades. (Daniel Boczarski)
Parton’s comments come after Billboard ranked her as the “number one country artist of all time”.
The country star admitted she had no idea there was “such a category” and that she would be “voted for,” but ultimately, Parton was “more proud and honored than anything.”
“I do so many things, sometimes I wonder if I’m still considered a country artist.”
— Dolly Parton
The “Jolene” singer’s initial reaction to her coveted country title was that she was “shocked.”
Dolly Parton, 78, has been dubbed the “Queen of Country.” (Katherine Bomboy/NBC via Getty Images)
“I was surprised, but I was with Willie and Johnny Cash… Loretta Lynn and all those great people.”
DOLLY PARTON GREW UP FOCUSING ON ‘GOD, MUSIC AND FOOD’
Host Gayle King then challenged Parton, asking: “Why are you shocked and surprised? Honestly, at this stage in your life [career]… You know you’re a bada–… There’s no other choice when it comes to that particular ranking.”
Parton later compared her musical career to Beyoncé being named the greatest pop star of the 21st century by Billboard.
Beyoncé released a country album called “Cowboy Carter.” (Getty Images)
“I think it’s well deserved, even though Taylor Swift [who earned the second spot on the list] is a dear friend of mine… for me, it could have gone either way, but you never know, because there are so many other great artists.”
Meanwhile, “Queen of Pop” Beyoncé covered Parton’s iconic song “Jolene” for her country album, “Cowboy Carter.” Parton gave her take on “non-country artists doing country music” and country artists doing pop music.
“Well, I think if I can do a rock album… other people can do country. I think if you’re an artist and you have a desire to express… the whole range of music and art, I really think you should have the opportunity to do that,” Parton explained.
Dolly Parton photographed in 1975, left, and 2023. (Getty Images)
“I always welcome anyone who wants to be a country and I consider it a great compliment to people who want to be a part of our world. I know sometimes I want to be a part of their world… I think it should be accepted as such.”
While the “Billy the Kid Comes Home for Christmas” author has been in the spotlight for much of her life, Parton shared how she has “struggled” with her family’s fame during her highly successful career.
“You always have to do that,” Parton said of the balance in her life.
Dolly Parton says despite her busy career, she always tries to be home for Christmas. (Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame)
“Of course, I love my family… especially I love being home for the holidays. And to my knowledge, I have never missed Christmas. But I have missed Thanksgiving and a lot of other holidays,” she said.
“I try my best to be home for Christmas, but when you’re in showbiz you have to be there [when] they call… But it’s important during the holidays… to be home with family and friends.”
News
Tears Flow as Reba McEntire Delivers Soul-Stirring Performance of ‘You Never Gave Up On Me’ — The Powerful Moment That Left Her Mother and Fans in Tears In an emotionally charged moment that no one saw coming, Reba McEntire took the stage and poured her heart into a stunning rendition of You Never Gave Up On Me. The performance was so raw and powerful, it brought her own mother — and an entire audience — to tears. What was behind the emotion? A deeply personal story, unspoken until now. This isn’t just another performance — it’s a message from Reba’s soul.
Reba McEntire Moves Her Mom to Tears with Emotional Song “You Never Gave Up On Me” In February 2019, Reba McEntire…
Reba McEntire Finally Breaks Her Silence on Romance with Rex Linn — The Truth Behind Their Love Story Is More Surprising Than Anyone Expected! After months of speculation and whispers, Reba McEntire is finally opening up about her relationship with actor Rex Linn — and what she reveals might just change everything you thought you knew. From secret beginnings to heartfelt confessions, the country icon shares details that leave fans stunned and craving more. Could there be more to this love story than meets the eye?
Reba McEntire Shares RARE Insight Into Romance With Boyfriend Rex Linn—What She Reveals Will Surprise You! For decades, Reba McEntire…
Reba McEntire Sparks Frenzy with Mysterious Tease About Long-Awaited ‘The Voice’ Crossover — Is the Ultimate Collaboration Finally Happening Behind the Scenes? Country music queen Reba McEntire just sent fans into a wild spiral after hinting at a thrilling crossover involving The Voice! With cryptic clues and a knowing smile, Reba has everyone wondering: is this the moment we’ve all been waiting for? A legendary collaboration? A surprise return? Or something even bigger?
Reba McEntire Teases ‘The Voice’ Crossover We All Deserve “Queen of Country” isn’t Reba McEntire’s only title. The “Fancy” singer…
Reba McEntire Shockingly Quits ‘The Voice’ — Reveals Jaw-Dropping Reasons Behind Her Departure! Reba McEntire has dropped a bombshell by announcing her departure from The Voice, leaving fans in disbelief! The country legend revealed shocking personal reasons behind her decision, vowing to focus on her own career. Is this the end of an era, or will Reba return? The truth will surprise you!
With The Voice season 26 premiering tonight, fans are gearing up for what looks to be one of the best seasons yet….
Reba McEntire Teases Explosive Sitcom Reboot: ‘It’s Gonna Be Bigger Than Ever!’ Fans Left in Shock as Country Legend Vows to Revive Hit Show with an All-New Twist! Reba McEntire dropped a bombshell recently, revealing that she’s been working tirelessly to bring back the iconic “Reba” sitcom, and it’s set to be more jaw-dropping than ever before! Fans were left in complete shock as McEntire hinted at a reboot that could change the landscape of TV comedy. With new twists, unexpected guest stars, and a whole new level of drama, this reboot is bound to break records! McEntire assured fans that they’re “going to love the surprises” in store, and it will leave everyone begging for more. Get ready for a reboot that could be even better than the original!
“I really want to work with the people that I got to work with during that six and a half…
Reba McEntire Shares Heartfelt Anniversary Snapshot with Boyfriend Rex Linn – The Sweet Moment You Won’t Believe!
Reba McEntire Shares Rare Photo With BF Rex Linn For Anniversary Entertainment gossip and news from Newsweek’s network of…
End of content
No more pages to load