The state of Tennessee has officially designated January 19 as Dolly Parton Day in honour of the legendary country music icon.
Governor Bill Lee announced the special observance as a tribute to Parton’s lifetime of achievements, service, and positive influence, aligning the celebration with her 80th birthday, which also falls on January 19.
In an official proclamation released by the Tennessee Department of State, the governor described Parton as a source of immense pride to the state. “Dolly Parton, born on 19 January, 1946, is a native Tennessean whose extraordinary life and career have brought pride to the State of Tennessee,” the notice stated.
The proclamation highlighted both her professional success and philanthropic efforts, noting her far-reaching impact on the lives of Tennesseans. It praised her as “an acclaimed singer, songwriter, musician, actress, producer, and entrepreneur whose body of work embodies the spirit of Tennessee.”
The statement further acknowledged her influence on American music, describing her as one of the most celebrated and beloved artists in the country’s history. Beyond her artistic legacy, the proclamation also emphasized her dedication to charitable causes, particularly through the Dollywood Foundation and the Imagination Library.
The recognition comes during a landmark year for Dolly Parton, who has achieved 25 number-one hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart over a career spanning four decades.
She recently released a new version of her 1977 classic Light of a Clear Blue Morning, featuring collaborations with Lainey Wilson, Reba McEntire, Queen Latifah, and Miley Cyrus, adding another highlight to an already remarkable career.
