Country music icon Dolly Parton is no stranger to new ventures. From philanthropy to acting, to theme parks, her decades-long career has been far from static. At 77 years old, she is showing no signs of slowing down, even announcing the release of a brand-new album. But this time a rock album. I’m so impressed that she is still making music and performing at her age, but genre switching too!? Incredible. Fans worldwide celebrated the beginning of a new chapter for this blonde bombshell.
what prompted the switch From Country To Rock?
While this transition may come as a shock to some, it’s actually a well-timed career move. Dolly was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. Soon after, in January of 2023, she announced a brand-new album: Rockstar. The record is a collection of thirty songs, comprised of originals and iconic rock covers. The release is set for November 17th.
WHAT CAN WE EXPECT?
Dolly has already unveiled the track list. With features ranging from Stevie Nicks to Elton John to Miley Cyrus, it’s safe to say Rockstar seems like the musical conglomerate we’ve all been waiting for.
The thirty songs, along with an equally impressive star-studded album, have generated lots of anticipation among fans. Dolly herself has fueled the excitement:
“I am very honored to 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. I hope everyone enjoys the album just as much as I’ve enjoyed putting it together!”
Dolly has recently been releasing tracks here and there to offer fans a sneak peek of just what’s hiding underneath her sequined sleeve. “World on Fire”, “Bygones” featuring Judas Priest’s Rob Halford, “Magic Man” featuring Heart’s Ann Wilson, and “We Are The Champions” are the three that have been unveiled so far. Despite the contrast between rock and country, Dolly’s iconic Southern twang is the best of both worlds.
New versions of old classics
Rockstar’s most recent release is one of the most extensive collaborations on her album, with four rock music legends. “Let It Be,” her cover of the iconic Beatles song, features Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney, of course. Accompanying the two are Peter Frampton (on guitar) and Mick Fleetwood (on percussion).
The emotional ballad combines the talents of every featured player to produce a refreshing yet evocative take. Starr’s drumming is classic. Frampton’s electric guitar adds to the passion of the lyrics. The cherry on top of this dreamy rock music sundae? McCartney’s powerful vocals with an equally powerful Dolly. The combination of their two distinct vocals completes this stunning rendition of the song we know and love.
If the rest of Rockstar is just as powerful and magical as “Let It Be,” it sounds like there’s a bright future ahead for Dolly Parton’s newfound rock music endeavors.
How To Listen
Have the singles piqued your interest? Don’t want to wait three months for your Dolly Parton fix? If you haven’t yet found yourself listening to her, I highly recommend you check out some of her biggest hits here. Just be prepared to invest in some blonde hair dye and sequins.
From her iconic you’ve-definitely-heard-these to older, more hidden gems, there’s a little bit of everything in Dolly’s impressive laundry list of albums and singles.
Need a song after you’re worried a redhead might steal your man? “Jolene” may be up your alley. Want to lament a grueling workday? Listen to “9 to 5.” One of my personal favorites is “Dumb Blonde,” for all the times you’ve wondered if blondes really do have more fun.
You can pre-save Rockstar here for its November 17th release, set to be available on all streaming platforms. Which collaboration are you most looking forward to?
