One of my fondest memories is cruising around in my mom’s Bronco, windows wide open, belting out “Islands in the Stream.” The wind tousled her hair, an eclectic mix of Flock of Seagulls and a classic Southern charm, while she confidently navigated the streets of Nashville, one hand gripping a TAB soda and the other applying a splash of L’Oreal’s Frosted Coral lipstick. I was just five years old. She was in her 30s. Dolly was dazzling.
My admiration for Dolly Parton sprouted early. Growing up in Tennessee, I visited Silver Dollar City, the precursor to Dollywood, long before I even knew about Disney World. Christmas didn’t feel complete until we watched Dolly battle a witch and find love in A Smoky Mountain Christmas, where she portrayed the ghost of a country singer with an untimely fate.
And let’s talk about the Memphis bridge, which I confidently called the “Dolly Parton Bridge” for years, thanks to my dad’s playful influence. It wasn’t until sixth grade that I learned it had a more mundane name. I even dressed as a “realistic” Dolly for Halloween in kindergarten, which raised more than a few eyebrows, especially since I was living in Bolivia at the time with few Americans around. My first risqué joke revolved around Dolly Parton hiding behind a tree, and the nostalgia just keeps piling up.
As an adult, I still admire Dolly, even if I’m not a fan of the commercialization of Appalachian culture. I recognize her over-the-top glam—her breast enhancements, extravagant makeup, and towering hairstyles are not something I hope my four-year-old daughter will emulate. Still, here’s why I want her to forge her own connection with Dolly.
1. Dolly’s Intelligence
One of my favorite Dolly quotes is, “It costs a lot of money to look this cheap.” She understands the business of branding and sells her persona with finesse. From a theme park to a record label, she’s a savvy entrepreneur who knows how to make her mark without pretending to be a corporate mogul—though I’m sure she has a few smart minds on her team.
2. Dolly’s Confidence
Dolly’s signature style—size EFG (Extra Friggin’ Grande) breasts and dazzling sequined outfits—has never been the standard of Vogue. Hollywood in the ’80s wasn’t exactly a welcoming place for a Southern woman from the hills, yet she embraced her uniqueness, teased her hair sky-high, and opened her own theme park instead of conforming.
3. Dolly’s Pride in Her Roots
Continuing from my second point, Dolly invests in her hometown, Sevier County, and the broader East Tennessee area. Her Imagination Library ensures that every preschooler receives a carefully selected book each month until they start school, a testament to her commitment to education and community.
4. Dolly’s Diverse Audience
Have you ever attended a Dolly Parton concert? If you think it’s just a gathering of country fans, you’re mistaken. People of all backgrounds—men, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and families—come together to sing along to “Jolene.” She spreads kindness and is embraced by everyone in attendance.
5. Dolly’s Authenticity
Why listen to songs about superficial themes when you can enjoy Dolly’s narratives about real-life struggles and triumphs? Songs like “Coat of Many Colors” teach that character matters more than appearance, while “9 to 5” resonates with the working woman’s daily grind.
In summary, Dolly Parton is more than just a music icon; she embodies intelligence, confidence, pride in her heritage, inclusivity, and authenticity—qualities I hope my daughter will appreciate and embody as she grows.
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