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Remembering Dolly Parton - 7th September 2026

Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80. The American singer-songwriter was called 'the Queen of Country Music'.

Parton was born into a poor family. She was the fourth of 12 children. They lived in the countryside in Tennessee.

Dolly was only 6 when she wrote her first song. She was employed to sing on TV when she was 10. By 16, Parton had become a professional songwriter.

To begin with, Parton wrote songs for other musicians. Her first album, which was called 'Hello, I'm Dolly', started her singing career.

Later, Parton became an actor too. Her first part was in the film '9 to 5'.

Parton wasn't just a successful musician. She was also a skilled businesswoman who owned the copyright to most of her songs. She set up her own record label in 1993.

Her money created opportunities for others. Parton established a film and TV company. She also built a theme park, which she named Dollywood.

Parton gave large amounts to charity. Her biggest project was the 'Imagination Library'. Dolly's father couldn't read, so she sent books to children around the world every month. It's an incredible support, says Aynsley Broom.

Aynsley Broom: "She really, you know, championed a lot of people to read and was incredible in like, allow - making sure that every child had a book to read. And that's something that I think is very important. As someone who really loves our local libraries, she was supportive of that and her Imagination Library is something that is truly incredible."