Dolly Parton celebrated her 78th birthday on January 19th by gifting her fans with new music. The country icon released a deluxe edition of her recent “Rockstar” album, featuring covers of classic rock songs as well as several bonus tracks.
Surprise Song Releases Thrill Fans
Parton surprised fans on her birthday by dropping not just one new track, but nine additional songs as part of a deluxe version of her “Rockstar” album released last year. The bonus tracks include Parton’s spin on hits like “Old Flames Can’t Hold a Candle to You” by Kesha, “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton, “Jolene” by Dolly Parton, and more.
The new releases thrilled fans and dominated entertainment news headlines on January 19th. Outlets like Rolling Stone, Billboard, and NME covered the surprise song drops, noting the Queen of Country is still breaking new ground.
| Song | Original Artist |
|---|---|
| Old Flames Can’t Hold a Candle to You | Kesha |
| 9 to 5 | Dolly Parton |
| Sweet Music Man | Kenny Rogers |
| Jolene | Dolly Parton, featuring Italian band Måneskin |
| Stairway to Heaven | Led Zeppelin |
| Free Bird | Lynyrd Skynyrd |
| Purple Rain | Prince |
| We Will Rock You | Queen |
| The Rose | Bette Midler |
The bonus tracks put a Dolly spin on classics old and new, showing off her talent and range. Highlights include an emotional cover of Bette Midler’s “The Rose” along with a foot-stomping take on Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven.”
But the standout is likely her duet with Italian glam rockers Måneskin on a new version of “Jolene.” Parton trades verses with lead singer Damiano David on her iconic tune, infusing it with a fresh energy.
Star-Studded 78th Birthday Festivities
In addition to making headlines with new music, Parton’s actual birthday was also a newsworthy occasion. Fans, libraries, and fellow stars celebrated Dolly’s special day in style.
The legendary Grand Ole Opry hosted a star-studded bash in Nashville that doubled as a benefit for victims of flooding in Kentucky. Country singers like Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Chris Stapleton showed up to pay tribute with Dolly classics.
Even Parton superfan Jimmy Fallon got in on the action – the late night host traveled to Tennessee to surprise Dolly on stage with a rendition of “9 to 5.” The celebrations emphasized the incredible influence Parton still wields in country music as she approaches her eighth decade.
Meanwhile, libraries across the country hosted their own Dolly Day events aimed at spotlighting her Imagination Library initiative. From Oklahoma to Lawton and beyond, librarians championed early childhood literacy in Dolly’s honor. The events offered story time, crafts, birthday cake and of course, free books for kids.
Parton also received plenty of birthday wishes over social media from celebrities like goddaughter Miley Cyrus, Reese Witherspoon, Kate Hudson and more. Collectively, the various celebrations highlighted the breadth of Dolly’s influence and accolades on her special day.
What’s Next for Country Icon?
Never one to slow down, Parton already has big plans in the works on the heels of her 78th birthday.
For starters, she is still actively promoting her new deluxe “Rockstar” album. She performed lead single “Rockin'” live for the first time at the Opry’s birthday bash for her in Nashville on the 19th. More TV appearances and potential live shows could be in the cards to showcase the rock reinventions.
Parton is also working on multiple film and TV projects in 2024. She is developing a Broadway adaptation of 9 to 5 the musical, executive producing a film about her song “Jolene,” and starring in the movie adaptation of her book “Run Rose Run” alongside Reese Witherspoon.
On top of new acting and music ventures, Parton remains devoted as ever to giving back. She continues expanding access to her Imagination Library early childhood reading initiative across the US and globe.
The program which gifts free books to kids under 5 is near and dear to Dolly’s heart. So central library readings held in her honor align perfectly with her ongoing mission.
As she celebrates 78 years, Dolly Parton shows no signs of slowing down. If the past year serves as any indication, she’ll continue breaking boundaries in country, film, philanthropy and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- Dolly Parton celebrated turning 78 on January 19th with a deluxe “Rockstar” album featuring 9 new covers of classic rock tracks
- Highlights include a show-stopping “Jolene” duet with Italian band Måneskin
- Fellow music stars and fans hosted birthday events across Nashville and libraries nationwide
- Parton has multiple film/TV projects, new music promotion and philanthropic initiatives in the works for 2024
- Approaching 80 years old, the icon proves she can still captivate headlines and take the world by storm
The Queen of Country is still rocking her heart out, dropping new tunes and influencing generations new and old. By gifting fans with surprise song releases on her big day, Parton stole headlines and thrilled listeners. As she celebrates 78 years with no sign of slowing, her birthday served as a reminder of her trailblazing talents and timeless star power.
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