Not being a country music fan doesn't prevent you from being a Dolly Parton fan.
Oh this is sad. So she passed away. Another genuine cultural icon, in music, and beyond, that is no more. Very sad. I was never a fan of country music, and I've never had any particular interest in her or her work, but I certainly noticed her somewhat omni-and-ever-presence, and even more so her amazing persona. She was one of few people in showbusiness that attract beyond political or "style" considerations. There is a clear difference between "The Nuge" (Ted Nugent) and Lemmy (Kilmister) - not every Motörhead fan will happily admit he also likes "The Nuge", or at least he/she will have some reservations regarding his political views. Kid Rock has clearly chosen a certain direction regarding his image, and, for example, Rage Against The Machine are representing another position. Their fanbases don't mix too well.
To enjoy Dolly Parton's presence, these kinds of considerations were not required. Somewhat disguised by her near-comical perfect-blonde-bombshell country-girl appearance, was a smart, funny, witty, charming and considerate female that very ironically and very self-aware, actually checks all the boxes she so playfully represents publicly. In a sense, she was your actual dream girl, your never-aging Barbie with brains.
Regardless of social or political position, regardless of visual appearance, a nice person is a nice person. On first sight, one might be quick to judge her by her hairstyle. In her case, one couldn't be more right, and more wrong at the same time. And maybe most importantly, it doesn't matter. She played in a league of her own.
Thanks, Dolly. :-)
Here's a nice interview & song from Johnny Carson's Tonight Show (1979):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7TL0E-U4vY
Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean (Jan. 19, 1946 - Aug. 25, 2026)
R. I. P.
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