Inducted:
2022
Category:
Performer
Inducted By:
P!NK
Dolly Parton’s impact extends beyond music into the culture-at-large. A consummate songwriter, she never shies away from risk, imbuing her songs with novelistic detail and timeless melody. Crossing over to multiple genres and media, she remains authentic, defying boundaries and opening doors for others. A formidable businesswoman, she set new standards for artistic control, and as a philanthropist, she is legendary.
Induction
Impact
Signature Sound
With a shimmering soprano, Dolly Parton tapped into her Tennessee mountain roots and penned some of country music’s most iconic songs. A master storyteller, accomplished musician, and captivating performer, she crossed over to polished pop, with forays into disco, gospel, bluegrass, and rock, imprinting all with her indelible charm and unmistakable voice.
One of Dolly’s first controversial ballads, this song raised some eyebrows due to its unflinching look at gender double standards.
From the Museum
Heartbreak,Confidence,Gratitude
In 1973, after a seven-year stint as TV star Porter Wagoner’s duet partner, Dolly Parton ended their partnership. Her parting gift was “I Will Always Love You,” a bittersweet ballad brimming with heartbreak, gratitude, and simmering confidence.
Appearing on the ‘74 album Jolene, it followed the title track to No. 1. This ‘82 version took it to the top once more. Whitney Houston’s record-breaking ’92 cover would do it yet again.
From the Museum
Heartbreak,Confidence,Gratitude
In 1973, after a seven-year stint as TV star Porter Wagoner’s duet partner, Dolly Parton ended their partnership. Her parting gift was “I Will Always Love You,” a bittersweet ballad brimming with heartbreak, gratitude, and simmering confidence.
Appearing on the ‘74 album Jolene, it followed the title track to No. 1. This ‘82 version took it to the top once more. Whitney Houston’s record-breaking ’92 cover would do it yet again.
She writes about things that others would prefer to be swept under the rug; she gives a voice to the voiceless.
P!NK
2022 Hall of Fame Essay
“Parton has deftly engaged her vast talent, unique persona, and sheer determination to forge a near-unparalleled career.”
Holly George-Warren
Check It OutInfluence
Influences
Carl & Pearl Butler
Rose Maddox
The Carter Family
Kitty Wells
Loretta Lynn
Dolly Parton
Influenced
Kacey Musgraves
Emmylou Harris
Jack White
Lainey Wilson
P!NK
Taylor Swift
Lucinda Williams
Alison Krauss
sealed with a signature
This is the signature that appears on the inductee’s plaque at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to officially commemorate their induction.
More from
the Hall
