What a Way to Make a Living: Dolly Parton Works More Than '9 to 5'

 By Jami Morain

    Dolly Parton has more than earned being called a "national treasure." Parton has had her own Netflix series, Heartstrings, songwriter, library owner and business woman. 

    A Rolling Stone columnist wrote this about Parton, "Operating since the Sixties, she’s continued to find new success in every decade — as a country singer, pop performer, film star, songwriter, and entrepreneur, to name a few. In doing so, she’s had a lasting influence on multiple generations of entertainers." Performers from Reba McEntire to Miley Cyrus thinking highly of Parton and have been inspired by her. 

    In 2022, Parton was nominated to be induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. However, she took to her social media platforms and announced she would like to "respectfully bow out." As a country music artist, she felt she had not earned the place. The Rock Hall disregarded her request by stating rock has roots in country music and that its not defined by a genre. They continued on with the fact that Parton has inspired generations and fellow artists. Parton was voted to be inducted. How did she respond?.

    She made a rock album. Rockstar is a 30 track album featuring multiple special guests. Nine of the songs are originals and the twenty-one others are covers of "iconic tracks." I have the utmost respect for Parton and think its classy. Instead of being upset that they went against her wishes, she stepped up to the challenge to earn her place amongst the legends of rock. Not to imply Parton isn't a legend, but usually people don't associate Dolly Parton with Queen, until now. 

    On top of repeatedly proving she can hold her own as a musician, she is a philanthropist. Her Imagination Library has gifted over two million books to kids across the globe. Children even call her the "book lady." She owns and founded Dollyworld. A theme park, water park and resorts. Her Netflix series Heartstrings plays out the stories, memories or inspirations behind her songs. She was the executive producer for the show and acted in it. She's the author of an autobiography and children's books. 

    Is there anything Dolly can't do?