With a career spanning over six decades, Dolly Parton has earned her title as the “Queen of Country.” However, the 78-year-old music icon recently admitted she sometimes wonders if her fans still consider her a country artist.
“I do so many things, sometimes I wonder if I’m still considered a country artist,” Parton said during an interview on CBS Mornings. “Although I’m a country girl… I’ve had the chance to do things like my rock album… movies… I wasn’t sure.”
Billboard Honors Dolly as the Greatest Country Artist
Parton’s reflection comes after Billboard ranked her the “number one country artist of all time.” The accolade left the singer “shocked,” as she hadn’t realized such a category existed or that she’d be voted for it.
“I was surprised, but I was in company with Willie [Nelson], Johnny Cash… Loretta Lynn and all those wonderful people,” she said. Despite her initial disbelief, Parton added that she feels “very proud and honored more than anything.”
Host Gayle King encouraged her to embrace the title, saying, “At this stage in your [career]… you know you’re a bada–… There is no other choice when it comes to that particular ranking.”
Dolly on Crossing Genres
During the interview, Parton drew a parallel between her career and Billboard naming Beyoncé the greatest pop artist of the 21st century, with Taylor Swift taking the second spot.
“To me, it could’ve gone either way,” Parton remarked, acknowledging Swift as a close friend and Beyoncé as a deserving icon. She also praised Beyoncé’s country album Cowboy Carter, which includes a cover of Parton’s own classic, “Jolene.”
When asked about non-country artists performing country music and vice versa, Parton was enthusiastic. “If I can do a rock album… others can do country music,” she said. “If you’re an artist and you have a desire to cover the whole spectrum of music and art, you should have the opportunity.”
Parton sees this genre-blending as a compliment and encourages artists to explore country music, just as she’s ventured into other genres.
Wrestling Fame and Family
Parton also spoke about balancing her personal and professional life, admitting it’s been a challenge.
“I love family… especially being home for the holidays,” she said. “To my knowledge, I’ve never missed a Christmas. But I’ve missed Thanksgiving and a lot of other holidays.” Despite the sacrifices, she emphasized the importance of prioritizing family when possible.
A Legacy That Transcends Genres
As Parton continues to break barriers and inspire generations of artists, her humility and openness to change reaffirm her timeless appeal. Whether celebrated as a country icon, a genre-crossing pioneer, or a holiday-loving family woman, Dolly Parton remains a legend whose star shines brighter than ever.
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