… country music icon dies at 80
For music icon, singer and songwriter, Dolly Parton, the curtain has fallen.
The jolly good songbird has died at the age of 80, as announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, in a video shared on her social media accounts on Tuesday, noting that she died in Nashville, Tennessee.
The cause of death was not disclosed.
Parton enjoyed a career spanning more than six decades, becoming one of the most successful figures in country music.
She was known for hit songs including “Jolene”, “9 to 5”, “I Will Always Love You” and “Coat of Many Colors”.
Parton sold more than 100 million records worldwide and received 11 Grammy Awards, while also earning numerous other honours during her career.
Beyond music, Parton established herself as an actress, businesswoman and philanthropist, appearing in films such as 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias.
She also founded the Dollywood theme park in Tennessee and established the Imagination Library, a literacy initiative that provided millions of books to children.
Parton was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and remained active in entertainment and philanthropy until her later years.
Her death came shortly after she had spoken publicly about health challenges that affected some of her recent activities.
Parton had cancelled a planned Las Vegas residency and missed some public appearances because of her health, although she continued working on several projects.
The music icon rose from humble beginnings to become an internationally acclaimed entertainer whose influence extended beyond country music.
Her songwriting and performances earned her global audience, while her philanthropic activities cemented her reputation as one of the entertainment industry’s most influential figures.
Parton survived by her siblings and other family members.
