How Dolly Parton wrote the story of a changing America

Photo: Dolly Parton reads to children in the Library of Congress Great Hall in 2018. Photo credit: Shawn Miller via Wikimedia Commons. Public Domain. Article by Ann Powers. NPR – August 26, 2026.

Until her passing on Tuesday, Dolly Parton may have been the only living person truly worthy of that old-fashioned designation, “America’s Sweetheart.” Her immense musical talent guaranteed her top-tier standing in country music and propelled her into a level of mainstream success that only a handful of her peers would match. Her charm, depth, beauty, sense of humor and radiant goodness made her a star across seven turbulent decades. […]

Click here to view original web page at www.npr.org

Related articles:

I got the chance to speak to Dolly Parton, and she was full of great life lessons. These are my favorites. – Business Insider

How the ‘backwoods Barbie’ Dolly Parton turned self‑aware artifice into authentic artistry – The Conversation

Dolly Parton, music star, actor and beloved figure who spanned generations, dies at 80 of cancer – AP News

GOP lawmakers quietly slash funds for Dolly Parton children’s book charity – Raw Story

Dolly Parton thanked Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce for $2 million gift weeks before her death – KMBC

Remembering Dolly Parton, country superstar and savvy businesswoman – ASBN Small Business Network

Dolly Parton’s Final Song Locked Away Until 2046 At Tennessee Resort – Business News 97.5 FM