My Favorite Female Vocalists: 7. Dolly Parton

So much more than just a singer...

Disclaimer: this countdown isn’t meant to be an all-time definitive list. These are simply my favorites.

My family is responsible for a considerable amount of my musical tastes. My mom introduced me to the Beatles, the Carpenters, and lots of “oldies.” My aunts exposed me to bands like Fleetwood Mac and the Doobie Brothers.

What I remember my dad listening to when I was little were two 8-tracks: Dolly Parton’s greatest hits and an old album of Porter Waggoner and Dolly Parton.

The Dolly Parton song that I first really fell in love with was “Here You Come Again,” and just a couple of years after that, I saw her onscreen in 9 to 5. It was clear that Dolly was more than just a singer.

She has made a name for herself as a theme park mogul and a philanthropist, and she continues to make great music to this day, all the while cultivating her unique image and staying true to herself.

She’s a national treasure.

Photo: RCA Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons