Dolly Parton Dies: Iconic “Jolene” Singer-Songwriter, ‘9 To 5’ Star & 11-Time Grammy Winner Was 80

Dolly Parton, the legendary singer-songwriter and 11-time Grammy winner behind such memorable hits as “Jolene,” “I Will Always Love You,” “9 to 5” and “Here You Come Again” who also was an an actor, producer, playwright, philanthropist and theme park founder, died Tuesday in Nashville. She was 80. Parton had been dealing with health issues for the past year and was forced to postpone a planned Las Vegas residency in September before canceling the shows in May. Her family said in a statement: “A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.” Watch on Deadline Born on January 19, 1946, in Sevier County, Tennessee,Parton had been a beloved figure since launching a country music career in the mid-1960s. She inked her first record deal with Monument Records that led to her debut studio album, Hello, I’m Dolly. Fueled by singles “Dumb Blonde” and “Something Fishy,” the LP’s success led to an invitation to join The Porter Wagoner Show in 1967, and she and host Porter Wagoner would become one of country music’s leading duos, recording a dozen studio albums which would produce countless top 10 hit singles through 1974. She made her solo Grand Old Opry in 1969 and landed her first No. 1 country single with “Joshua” in 1971. MORE TO COME…