Dec. 31, 2004
Hi Duane & Matt,
      First of all, I want to thank all of the Dolly fans who submitted photos of Dolly from her latest tour. She is wonderful and beautiful, as always. I did see her myself in Sacto, and she was just Awesome! I can't rave enough about how magnificent Dolly was that night, and how many prayers were answered to see her again after more than 15 years! :) I love the Dolly merchandise I bought, too. More than worth the money I spent!!
      I have a question. I am hearing on other Dolly fan sites that our baby girl will be touring again next year. Is this true? Is it official? Would anyone know the dates and places she is supposed to be performing? If she is touring and comes around this way, I am definitely gonna make sure I get much better tickets. Front row, I hope. Even if I go alone, which I have done before. And some extra $$$ for Dolly things and a better camera.
      Seeing Dolly this last time was an early Christmas gift from Dolly herself. Thank you, Dolly, for such a most wonderful and unforgettable Christmas gift! I will always love you, sweetheart. You really are an Angel.
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
Thanks for your letter. While Dolly said prior to the tour's start that she does plan to continue the tour into 2005, those dates have yet to be scheduled or announced, so it is possible they might not happen. Keep watching the news page for the latest developments.

Dec. 31, 2004
I'd like to know which Dolly CD contains the duet version (with Kenny Rogers) of "Real Love." I have the Dolly "Essential Volume One/I Will Always Love You" CD, but it contains Dolly's solo version of the song, not the duet version. On which original album does her solo version appear? (By the way, I'm disappointed that my favorite Dolly song, the 12-inch disco dance mix of "Baby I'm Burning" has never been released on CD! Remember the pink vinyl record it was released on?)
      I drove four hours each way to see Dolly in Portland and was very impressed by her spectacular show. I couldn't believe my luck when I got a free ticket to the show thanks to sponsoring radio station KUPL (who had a giveaway booth set up right outside the Rose Garden) and a very kind lady who gave me the ticket she had just won and didn't want because she already had tickets. (If you're reading this, I'd like to thank you once again for the ticket.) The show was wonderful! I had expected a mostly acoustic bluegrass set, but was very pleased to hear her perform a variety of styles -- something for everybody! (Is "I Dreamed About Elvis" available on CD? Two weeks after the show, I still can't get that song out of my head!)
      This is the second time I've seen Dolly perform for free. She gave a free lunch time concert on the steps of City Hall in New York City back in the summer of 1978. (She was promoting her crossover to pop music and concert that night at the Palladium.) Dolly put on a great show! All too soon, then Mayor Ed Koch reminded city workers that it was time to get back to work!
      Can't wait to see Dolly in concert again. Hope she adds more shows in 2005.
John
Grants Pass, Ore.
Thanks, John, for your letter. What luck to get in to see Dolly for free! To answer your questions, the solo version of "Real Love" was included on Essential Vol. 1 as a bonus track. The duet version with Kenny appears on the original out-of-print album Real Love from 1985 and the few other compilations that include it, which are mostly imports such as Legendary (which also includes the only CD version of the original recording of "Two Doors Down," which was replaced by the single version on later pressings of Here You Come Again and all other compilations) and Love Songs. As for the disco mix of "Baby I'm Burning," it was included on a now out-of-print compilation released several years ago in association with Australia's annual gay Mardi Gras celebration and was available as an import in the U.S. for some time but is now almost impossible to find. "I Dreamed About Elvis" is slated to appear on Dolly's upcoming CD Blue Smoke, which should be released sometime in early 2005. The album is also scheduled to include her covers of "Imagine" and "Me And Bobby McGee" in addition to the title track, all of which were performed in the concert. In addition, there's supposedly a recording of "Blowin' In The Wind" which may end up on it and another Cat Stevens cover as well. Guest vocalists for the project include Keith Urban, Ronnie McDowell, Joni Mitchell and Judy Collins. Finally, you can see the tour answer in the above question.

Dec. 31, 2004
Hey everyone I just wanted to let you know that I just bought the cd love rocks from Lambda Rising in Norfolk. The first cd is ok but the second one rocks. The book inside has a pic of the QUEEN DOLLY and also has a quote "I contributed to this CD because I believe love rocks. Love comes in all colors. We are rainbows and should all shine with our own true colors. Rock on!" - Dolly Parton I can't agree more especially having the rainbow flag and not ashamed of the one I love. As far as the duet question its weird how I have a list myself. Tina Turner and Rupaul is a must then Cher along with KISS. And maybe if another tribute album came out ther could be a little twist I would love to see her sing with Lil' Kim or Missy Elliott or even let them remix a Dolly song. I know it is a little far fetched for the Missy and Lil' Kim part but I can wish can't I. And anyways Lil Kim aka Queen Bee has something in common with Dolly. She has started her own organization called Lil Kim Cares http://www.lilkimzone.com/lilkimcares/index.html to help out young kids who are ill. This is something I like since I have a 4 year old nephew with CF. And I know how hard it is. Well thats all I wanted to say. Happy new Years everyone
Jon
Norfolk, Va.
Thanks, Jon, for passing along Dolly's quote from the CD, since I haven't seen an actual copy of it yet :) For those who don't know about the release, Love Rocks is a CD benefiting gay and lesbian advocacy group The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and its initiative to legalize same-sex marriage, which Dolly has said publicly that she supports. For the star-studded project, Dolly contributed her 2002 recording "Sugar Hill." Others participating include The Dixie Chicks, HRC Tennessee Honorary Chairperson Emmylou Harris, Melissa Etheridge, Christina Aguilera, Pink, Cyndi Lauper and Mandy Moore. You may order the CD set here.

Dec. 30, 2004
I really think Dolly should do a duets CD. Have all kinds of people on it. I would love for her and Cher, Madonna, Barbara, Reba, Bette, Mellisa Ethridge (yes they were great on Cross Roads I was there)Cindi Lauper, Garth Brooks, Wynonna/Judds, Elton John (Dont go breakin my heart), Celin Dion, Paul Stanly (from Kiss) Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Kenny Chesney, Michael Bolton, I know there are more but I cant think of them right now. have a great night and Happy New Year.
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
Thanks, Brian, for adding your list -- Bette, Faith and Celine are also ones I'd love to hear her with as well. Happy New Year to you, too!

Dec. 30, 2004
I feel Dolly is the greatest singers in female country music alive or deceased. I also do not feel she is given credit for all the good she does. Everyone thinks of dolly's chest before seeing how wonderful she is as a business woman, an artist, an activist, and most of all a TRUE down to earth human being. I would give anything to see her face to face before I pass away. I am a 33 year old terminally ill man that adores her and has visited her theme park 3 times in the past 10 years. How do I find information on contacting ms. parton personally, or through a real fan club??????????
Leo Ervin Botticher
Northumberland, Penn.
Leo, I agree that she's the best there is but, unfortunately, not everyone sees that because of her image. But, as she has said, she hopes people realize there's a brain beneath the wigs and a heart beneath the boobs. As far as contacting her, while she does not have a fan club, her addresses at home, her Nashville office and Dollywood office are all public record and available from many sources (including the site's Frequently Asked Questions page), so writing one of those is likely the best way for her to see your letter. Best wishes, and you are in my prayers.

Dec. 29, 2004
Hey! I was wondering, is the beauty mark by dolly's mouth a real one? I am really curious, my dad said i may not be able to determine it was her if she was in arkansas, and withouyt all hte stuff liek the heels adn the wigs adn the makeup. I said i would look by her mouth adn he said that might be a fake. Is it? does dolly wear red very often? I think i have only seen her in red once or twice like at the flameworthys. Buti still am not sure. Ohter than that, i have never seen her wear red. Finally, in your opinion, who should dolly do a duet with? I haev dreamed for a long time of her adn Reba McEntire doing a duet! I always thought that would be cool! Thanks, bye!
Michelle Ivey
Benton, Ark.
Thanks, Michelle. Well, I think the beauty mark is real, as it can be seen in almost all of her photos since she was a young teen-ager. It sometimes appears on one side of her mouth in photos and sometimes on another side, but that's due to "flipping" the photo, not the actual spot the mole is in. It has moved a little over the years closer and further from her lip, but that's likely just an effect of her cosmetic surgery. You don't see her wearing red often, so she probably doesn't. She seems to prefer softer tones, such as white and pink, or bolder multi-colored patterns instead of standard red or orange. And, finally, my dream Dolly duets would certainly include Reba, a full duet with Alison Krauss (although she often sings background harmony on Dolly songs), Cher, Barbara Streisand, Elton John, The Eagles and something recorded with Melissa Etheridge (they were amazing together on CMT's "Crossroads"). I also love her real out-of-the-ordinary collaborations such as with Paula Cole, Boy George and Ladysmith Black Mambazo, so I'd like some more in that vein, perhaps something with a hip-hop artist like Tim McGraw's current duet with Nelly (maybe Missy Elliot or Destiny's Child, but I have to admit that a Snoop Dogg duet would be hilarious!), or maybe a song with someone like Madonna or Justin Timberlake.

Dec. 27, 2004
Hey Duane! My husband and I traveled to catch Dolly's show in Las Vegas and I just have to say that it was one of the best performances I have ever seen her do! Being from East Tennessee, we have seen her many times at Dollywood(we have season tickets), as well at other places, but this show was just special. It was so neat to see everyone's reaction to her and how she had them mesmerized by her "southern charm". After the show I heard lots of comments by a lot of young people that it was the best show they had ever seen! They had no idea that she could play all those instruments and write all those songs. I even heard one say that she just wanted to see her because she loved Steel Magnolias! She said she had no idea that she was the creator of all those great songs! Personally, I think Dolly is blowing the minds of these "new fans" by her being able to actually play all the different instruments and showcasing her songwriting skills. I know being from East Tennesse, we may sometimes take her for granted, because we know that she knows we love her no matter what, but after seeing her in Vegas, you realize what a truly "BIG STAR" she is. Thank you Duane for your wonderful site and keeping us all informed of the latest happenings and to Dolly, if you happen to read this, Thank You for making us East Tennesseans PROUD!!!
Diane
Riceville, Tenn.
Thanks, Diane, for sharing your thoughts from the show. I went in Biloxi, myself, and just loved it!

Dec. 25, 2004
Dear Duane, I just wanted to wish you a MERRY CHRISTMAS. Also a Merry Christmas to Dolly's fans and Dolly herself. I really like your website and appreciate what you do to keep us informed on what's going on with our beloved Dolly. I am a big fan of hers, I have most of her movies and a few cds and tapes. Although I haven't seen her in concert yet but I hope to one day. Keep up the good work and once again have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Amy
Wichita, Kan.
Well, thank you, Amy! And a most joyous of holidays to you and your family as well!

Dec. 25, 2004
Hi Duane! I wanted to tell you to have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, !! I love your website,!! I use your website as my homepage, so when I start up my internet, I see your website, first thing!! I hope Dolly does do a "Hello I'm Dolly" concert, as part of the Grand Opening, because this will be the first time in 34 years of being a fan of hers, that I WILL be able to see her and her theme park! I got plane ticket and a season's pass, too!! I can't wait! I am so nerous about it, because this will the first time I will be going to the US,and by myself , too!! Take Care,
Leesa
Thunder Bay, Ont., Canada
Thank you, Leesa! I hope you have a wonderful Christmas as well! While Dolly hasn't made her plans known yet for her appearances at Dollywood's season opening, even if she doesn't perform you'll usually get three or four chances to see her around over the weekend. And be sure you've booked your travel for the first weekend in April. While the park is open for season passholders to get a "sneak peek" the last weekend of March and the park will be open to the public for the first time this year for the last week of March, the official season opening festivities with Dolly are still scheduled for the first weekend of April.

Dec. 25, 2004
was wandering if dollys opry appearance has anything to do with the umcoming cd "blue smoke"? have you heard anything on the release date? seems like everyone is very excited about this cd and about the title track!!also maybe you could urge folks to call and request "baby its cold outside" maybe we could make it number 1 next week!!! Thanks
Chad
Georgetown, Ohio
Thanks, Chad. I bet you've got tons of snow up there after this week's storm, so stay warm! There have been rumors floating around for a few weeks that Dolly's CD would be out in February, but when I spoke with my contact at the record label earlier this month, I was told that nothing had been set yet. The Opry appearance is scheduled for the weekend prior to The Grascals' debut CD release date, and she does appear on its first single, so it may be it's mainly to promote their album, but it could be for hers as well. And, yes, by all means, all readers call and request "Baby It's Cold Outside" from your local radio stations and hopefully it'll get to No. 1!

Dec. 25, 2004
Hello there, Just wanted to coment on the letter from the lady that wants Dolly to come to her sons 3rd B-Day. Back in the early 90s I was in a car accident (2-5% chance to live) and with out me konwing my grandma called Dollys office in TN and talked to her people to see if she would beable to come to my 18th B-Day. Well they ended up calling my grandma back to let her know that Dolly would have loved to come but she was filming the movie Strait Talk and wasnt able to get away. But a few days later I did get a pic with "Brian get well soon Love Dolly" That is probly my favorit thing I have with her. I have tons of stuff. When I get my house and my own space LOL I will have a Dolly room, I just need that dang pinball machine :) Anyways hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a great New Year.
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
Thanks, Brian, for sharing your story, and I'm glad you recovered!

Dec. 24, 2004
Dear Duane, Is the letter from Mabelina real? I am amazed at some people. Like Dolly would drop everything to sing at a child's birthday party. Think about it, Dolly would have to; take an airplane ride, haul a costume, book a hotel, security, transportation from airport (or are they going to pick her up holding the sign "Ms. Parton" at the gate), all to sing "9 to 5" and "Heartbreak Express" to a 3yr old. I was not even aware that Dolly's career was even slowing down, seems busier than ever. But what scares me the most, is that Mabelina is a mother to a small child. She cannot spell, has horrible grammar, and terrible logic. She is teaching our future adults? Ouch! The letter made me actually laugh out loud. Mabelina's letter made my day. Love your site Duane. You do a world class job, and I appreciate a good laugh now and then. Many thanks,
Sean
Seattle, Wash.
Thanks, Sean. To be honest, I don't know if she was joking or not, because she wrote me back on Thursday seemingly confused why she received a reply from me instead of Dolly herself. But I'm glad you (and I'm sure many other readers) got a good laugh out of it :)

Dec. 23, 2004
Hi Duane, I wanted to email you to let you know I did see our Dolly Parton in concert on Sunday, Dec 12th in Sacramento and she was truly amazing and so wonderful!! She was her sweet self, as always, which is one of the things I love her for. I spent about $130 on Dolly merchandise, plus 1 CD of the Grascals. Those guys are great! I hope to find their CDs in the stores soon. I'd buy 'em. Althought I must say that I was so envious of them being on stage with Dolly, playing their music and singing with her. God knows I wish I was in their shoes. Why couldn't us fans be so lucky? I bet singing with Dolly is next best to being in Heaven! After all, we would be singing with a Real Angel, right? You bet!
      I did borrow a friend's camera, and the dadburn thing did not work for me!! Just my luck. It worked just fine for him the next night when he used it. So, unfortunately, I have no pics to send to Dollymania. Doggone it! And I was looking forward to that. Well, I do have those pics etched in my memory. Dolly was a treasure to behold. And I was just thrilled to see her again, after 15 years since the last time. Oh, she brought me back home. The only thing that was weird was that there were those great big screens so all of us could see her better, but that was like just watching Dolly on TV. I still did see her, although my seats were not the best. I vow that next time I see Dolly in concert, I will be in the very front row. I want to best view that money can buy. And my own camera to take pics.
      I bought 3 t-shirts, tour book, an 8x10 photo (Dolly in pink), a magnet, poster, and the Grascals CD. I already have Dolly's Live and Well CD/DVD set, tho I don't have a DVD player. They were selling them at the concert for $30 each.
      I don't know if this happened at all of Dolly's concert tour, but the Grascals were autographing for fans. I was wanting to get one, but that did not happen. You know I would have been in line for Dolly's autograph if she was there for it. The line for the Grascals wasn't too long. If it was Dolly, it would have been all the way around the entire building. LOL.
      The Grascals are awesome!! I'm glad that they were touring with Dolly, because she will do them quite well. I think they will make it. Just give it some time. I love bluegrass!! (Especially Dolly's!!)
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
Thanks, Scott, for writing. I'm so glad you loved the show and sorry your photos didn't turn out. Yes, The Grascals did sign autographs at several stops on the tour. Their debut album, which will include their cover of "Viva Las Vegas" with Dolly, is set to come out on Feb. 8 from Rounder Records. So look for it then!

Dec. 23, 2004
Dear Dolly Hi! I'm a big fan and was just wondering how old you are. You look great for your age, no matter how old! Also, I was wondering if I could have your artograf. I saw you at your show in PA and you were awesome. Well I even thought about asking you to come to my son's 3rd birthday party because he loves your music and he can really dance to 9 to 5 and Heartbreak Express. He also loves Anyway his name is Peter and if you could come sing at his birthday party on January 12 I would really appreciate it. I knowyou're busy but I heard you do birthday parties now that your career has slowed down a bit. Thank you again and Merry Holidays. Happy Christmas
Mabelina
Rochester, Mich.
Thanks for your note, Mabelina, but I must inform you that you have written an online newsmagazine dedicated to Dolly, not Dolly herself, so I cannot forward your message to her nor guarantee that she would ever see it here, but I'm happy to post it for you. However, while her career has "slowed" some in recent years from her pinnacle in the late 1970s and through the 1980s and early 1990s, she is still a very in-demand entertainer, selling a quarter-million copies each of most of her recent CDs and selling out 5,000-6,000-seat venues on her concert tour she just completed, so while I know she has a very strong affection for her youngest fans, I seriously doubt she has the available time to perform at any birthday parties.

Dec. 22, 2004
Now that the tour has concluded in the United States, I wanted to send a special "THANK YOU" to Dolly!
      Seeing you on this tour meant so much to me, and we were all blessed to have been in your presence and to have experienced you again! We true fans have known all along that you are an amazing woman, and seeing you in this new production has added even more love, respect and admiration in our hearts!
      Thank you for never denying us your voice, your incredible words and music, and your ability to make us laugh and cry. And also for allowing us to "tag along" on your amazing journey around the world. Your music has filled our hearts and minds, and has always helped me see a brighter day.
      Thank you again, dear Dolly! And the Happiest of Holidays and a Blessed New Year!
      And Thank You Duane, for your continued hard work!! Happy Holidays!
Michael White
Dallas, Texas
Well, thank you so much, Michael. And a wonderful season to you, too!

Dec. 22, 2004
Anyone out there know where I can get a bootleg video or audio copy of Dolly's opening number "Hello Dolly!" from her 2004 concert tour? Will pay top $$$! : ) Thanks
John
Beverly Hills, Calif.
I don't know of one (and if I did, I wouldn't pass along information on an illegal bootleg), but if someone else does, you've provided your e-mail address for them.

Dec. 21, 2004
Hi Duane. I was lucky enough to see Dolly in St. Paul in October and her recent show at the Dodge Theater in Phoenix. As an avid Dolly fan for more than 20 years, I thoroughly enjoyed both shows, but have a comment and a question. First, a comment-- I thought the changes to the set list and overall "flow" of the show were much improved in the Phoenix show. I would assume Dolly and/or her people read reviews from each show (and even what fans post on your site) and try to enhance or change those things to improve the show. Now, my question---now that this part of Dolly's tour is complete, is there a website (other than Ebay) selling any remaining tour merchandise? Thanks for all of your work on this great Dolly site---and, Happy Holidays!
Kevin
Minneapolis, Minn.
Thanks, Kevin, for sharing your thoughts. It seems the audiences responded well to Dolly at all of her performances, but they were even more energetic out West, so perhaps the set list changes had something to do with that. I doubt anything posted here had anything to do with the changes, but you never know. As for tour merchandise, nothing has been announced about selling it online (although several other readers have inquired about that, with one even suggesting that they consider using Fan Fire, which hosts the official online post-tour stores for stars such as Reba), but it's currently not available anywhere to my knowledge.

Dec. 21, 2004
Duane- The show in Portland was great! Here is the review from today's oregonian. http://www.oregonlive.com/music/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/entertainment/1103547563277750.xml. I will try to send you some photos tomorrow--I was in the front row!!! I could not believe my luck. Dolly was so terrific. If she was getting excited that the tour was finally coming to an end, she sure did not show that. She appeared to be having a great time and the crowd so loved her. When she sang "Little Sparrow" you could have heard a pin drop. The song "Blue Smoke" sounds like it could be a total hit for her--she did it with such energy and it was so much fun. She was so endearing and so engaging. I could go on and on, but I am sure you have heard it all. I, too, had my opinions about what worked and didn't work, but I was so thrilled to just hear her--she could have left the stage after "Little Sparrow" and I would have felt I had gotten more than my money's worth. Next year in Dollywood!
Maryann
Portland, Ore.
Thanks, Maryann, for your comments and for the link. I'm so glad you had such a good time. And I can't wait to see your shots! Please send them along, and I'll do up a gallery for you in the Tour galleries here!

Dec. 21, 2004
I just heard Dolly singing "Silent Night" on my local country radio station. There is no mistaking her voice, so I was wondering what album her version came from? It's not on her 1990 "Home For Christmas" CD and it sounded like a recent (meaning sometime within the last ten years) recording. I know she has appeared on numerous CDs by other artists and was wondering if that was the case with this song.
Scott
Blacksburg, Va.
Although I believe it was originally recorded for Home For Christmas (it appeared on her radio special promoting the CD), her version of "Silent Night" wasn't released commercially until seven years later for the soundtrack to Annabelle's Wish, which also featured her performing "Something Bigger Than Me."

Dec. 21, 2004
You people really do not get "Imagine." Its a song about the dream of a peaceful world and the hope for a better tomorrow. Dolly being a "christian" has nothing to do with her "getting" this song.I personally think that Dolly is more spiritual than she is a "christian." And I hope you know the difference. And id you do not, enjoy the song anyway!
Tim
Greenville, S.C.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Tim.

Dec. 18, 2004
Duane.... I caught the show in Dallas (Big crowd ...Dallas Morning News estimated about 9,000). She was amazing. For me, "Shine" and "Imagine" really stood out. I think it was an especially bold statement as a devout Christian that she sang "Imagine"... I think it was her stance against religious fundamentalism. (However, I could have done without "Me and Bobby McGee" and the "I Dreamed of Elvis" skit ...the last one was a bit too cheesy, but hey, that's just my opinion). Do you think this tour was captured on film and will be released as a DVD later? I thought this was better than the "Live and Well" cd. She wasn't nearly as chatty in Dallas as on the cd. Love your website.... keep up the great work!
John
Shreveport, La.
Thanks, John. No word on it possibly coming out as a DVD (although many, many fans have expressed an interest in that).

Dec. 18, 2004
I too was in attendance at Dolly's San Jose concert. I just do not have words to describe the experience. The audience wasnt able to take there eyes off the stage, she was just that mesmerizing. I dont know what it is, but she definately has it. I had no idea she was lip synching her songs. Im a little disapointed to hear that. (Although she is not exactly twenty anymore). I was just thrilled to be there. I told friends I was going to her concert and someone actually aked me if she had enough songs to put on a concert. I fell out of my chair I was laughing so hard. I told them she has a few songs ( 73 albums worth ). Obviously not a Dolly Fan.
TC
San Jose, Calif.
Thanks, T.C., for sharing your thoughts.

Dec. 17, 2004
five of us attended the anaheim,ca show last thursday. every one of left feeling that we wanted the show to go on for longer. i had never seen dolly in this type of show. she always performed with a minimal band and virtually no sets when i had seen her in the past; just a string of christmas lights and a tape of cricket sounds. this was an exquisite show full of surprises from song selection to playing virtually every instrument on stage. what a show. as always, with dolly, you feel that you spent the night in an intimate living room setting, just chewing the fat or talking over old times. she is a master at coming over the footlights and into your world. her non pretentious ways endear her to all fans and non-fans in attendance. please come again soon so we can continue the visit.
an adoring fan
Cal
Granada Hills, Calif.
Thanks, Cal, for sharing your experience. I'm glad you and your friends had a wonderful time!

Dec. 17, 2004
hello, i was just wondering if you could give me some information about Frank McKlusky,CI. Like what is it? when does it come out? Thanks so much..love the site.
Melanie
Sewaren, N.J.
Frank McKlusky, C.I. was a movie by Disney's Touchstone Pictures that Dolly filmed a few years back. It was a real cheesy film (similar to the types done based on characters created for Saturday Night Live, and in fact, it featured several "SNL" actors in it). It starred comedian Dave Sheridan as an insurance claims investigator. Dolly played his overprotective mother, and Randy Quaid was his comatose daredevil father. Dolly appeared in several scenes. The movie was released on a limited basis in Florida to test audience reaction in spring 2002, but it did so poorly that the studio chose to issue it "straight-to-video" instead of a national theatrical release. I thought it was pretty funny myself (albeit rather juvenile), but others didn't like it. The movie, rated PG-13 for language and crude and sexual humor, also featured female wrestler Chyna (Cameron Richardson) and a cameo by musical group Hanson. You can get it from Amazon here.

Dec. 17, 2004
Well just a few thing I wanted to say. Well first off now that it is the holidays and I have pulled out the christmas music i found two awesome things. Number one was that I had the original Once Upon a Christmas on cd and was surprised since i did only buy it two years ago. And then also I forgot how much fun the Rupaul christmas cd is especially With Bells on and Hard Candy Christmas. I just love the RU cd.
      Secondly my boyfriend and I are most likely headed to Nashville in Feb. to see dolly and was wondering if anyone can give us some tips and information about the area and the opry show.
      Thirdly about everyone who complained about the cocncert I think its pathetic. The tickets where DIRTY CHEAP. I have gone and seen Cher, Tina, and Kiss and I have paid about 80-120.00 a pieace for the tickets and they where all worth it. So people just need to let it go. Dolly rocks and will always be the only country singer i truly listen to.
      Fourth does anyone know anything about the song "Hard Candy Christmas" like what it means. I take it as being someone who just got over a hard christmas and was listing things for their new years resolution.
Jonathan Robinson
Norfolk, Va.
In case you didn't know, Ru idolizes Dolly, which is why those songs are on the CD . There's even a photo he sent in of the two of them on the site's reader-submitted photo section here from when they met a couple of years ago. And, at least in my house, it wouldn't be Christmas without some Dolly tunes! As for the Opry, I've never been (can you believe that!) so I can't help you out there, although I have been to Nashville a few times and can tell you it's a fun city. Perhaps some readers will e-mail you with some details on how the show runs in person there and some ideas for things you can do in town. Finally, "Hard Candy Christmas," while a beautiful song, actually isn't a Christmas song, in my opinion. Everyone thinks it is, and it gets played every Christmas because of the word "Christmas" being in its title. The song comes from the Broadway musical The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas and was one of the songs which remained in the film version that starred Dolly. In the movie, she sings the chorus while the girls from the whorehouse sing the verses, but on the soundtrack version, she sang the whole thing. The song details the different things the girls plan to do once they leave the whorehouse because it is being shut down and they'll be out of work. The words "hard candy Christmas" are being used as a metaphor instead of literally. Dolly's cover of the song went to No. 8 on the country charts back in the winter of 1982 and re-entered the charts in Christmas 1997. Since then, it has appeared on numerous holiday compilations and was even added to Once Upon A Christmas when it was re-issued on CD and they removed all of Kenny Rogers' solo numbers.
Note: You guys don't let me get away with anything do you :) A friend caught that when I wrote up my response and referenced the metaphor of "hard candy Christmas" that I didn't explain what the metaphor meant. He also reminded me that Dolly gave her thoughts in her 1986 Donahue interview in which she said she thought it referred to the disappointment of getting nothing but a few pieces of hard candy for Christmas, something she and her siblings experienced due to their poverty as children. Thanks, Greg, for pointing that out!

Dec. 17, 2004
Just want to be the frist to wish all the wonderful Dolly fans on this site a very Merry Christmas.and special wishes to our wonderful webmaster. And that great lady Dolly. For its her music that has filled us with joy,heartache,lifted our spirits.and stands for God and country.
Frank Monateri
Lyndhurst, Ohio
Why, thank you so much, Frank! And a most blessed of holidays to you as well!

Dec. 17, 2004
hi will dolly ever come back to the uk?i think she is ths best ever…
Debbie
Edinburgh, Britain
I'm sure, Debbie, that she'll get back there eventually. She played seven sold out shows in England, Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland two years ago, and while there has been talk of her possibly coming back for more sometime in 2005, no announcements of that tour taking place have come out yet. We'll just have to keep waiting.

Dec. 16, 2004
I am a Public Health Nurse and would like to contact Dolly Parton regarding her Immiagination Library. We would like for her to speak at the Tennessee Public Health Association's Meeting in September of 2005 because of her interest in children and their literacy. The meeting will be in Franklin, Tennessee. What would be the best way to contact her? I appreciate any help that you can give me.
Sammie Walker
Jackson, Tenn.
I'm sure Dolly gets tons of such requests to make appearances, but she can only do a few per year. I'd suggest writing her Nashville office with your request.

Dec. 16, 2004
Do you know haw many total cds of dolly have came out. and is there a copy of unlikely angel anywhere on cd.
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
In the 37 years since her first LP, Hello I'm Dolly, Dolly has put out 73 original albums (63 studio albums, four live albums and six official "greatest hits" collections). In addition, there have literally been several hundred compilation albums, cassettes and CDs released over the years.
Note: Oops! Forgot to answer the second part of your question! No, Dolly has never released the song "Unlikely Angel" on a CD, although you can get the DVD of the film here. Sorry!

Dec. 16, 2004
Hi Duane, The Sacramento show was indeed wonderful as many people mentioned. I just wanted to add a little story Dolly told after Coat Of Many Colors. She said she had gotten an e-mail before she went on tour from a Sunday school teacher who was asking some young children who in the Bible wore a coat of many colors. A little 4 year old boy said "I know, I know....Dolly Parton" A cute story I thought I would let you know about.
Manny
Burlingame, Calif.
Thanks, Manny. Yes, that is a cute story!

Dec. 15, 2004
Hi Duane I just attended the Sacramento show and wanted to say how EXQUISITE and AMAZING Dolly's performance was. It's almost Tuesday morning and I'm still on an incredible high. I brought my mom with me, wearing matching pink outfits and sparkly jewelry in honor of Dolly. We were in about the 15th row floor level which turned out to be really good seats, close enough to see Dolly's facial expressions and other details. I wasn't expecting such luck. I wish I could have seen her "releve shoes" (a dancer foot position I like to call her feet) but the large screens allowed a good view at the piano. I still cannot believe how close I was to my childhood and womanhood hero of 23 years! I felt like I was in a movie or a dream, the experience was so surreal. This is the third time I've seen Dolly in concert and this one is by far the best. I didn't bring a digital camera, just a disposable (I'm kicking myself now!) but the pictures turned out enough to treasure for a lifetime. Dolly's voice is still gorgeous, lipsynched (who cares!) and live...I was a sobbing mess when she talked about her mother's memory and how she is not gone, she's still with her. Dolly made a reference to her harpsichord, hugging it, reminding her of "Mama" and how she doesn't "hurt no more" and I just broke down since my own special mom was sitting next to me, the other #1 woman in my life who has healed and comforted me whenever I felt down and ashamed of who I was or what I looked like and who, too, had worked feverishly sewing special clothes (dance costumes) for me. All I remember from the performance of "Coat of Many Colors" was a vague, blurry Dolly playing the harpsichord and her angelic voice sweeping through me as I mopped my soggy mascara'd lashes while Mom held my hand for the entire song. "The Grass is Blue" and "Little Sparrow" was emotional for me too. "Blue Smoke" was awesome and "I Will Always Love You" warmed me. She was so funny and I loved the special effects and her interaction with her band (I will definitely buy the Grascals' CD...they are so talented). No one has touched my life the way Dolly has. She has touched countless others and the miniscule fraction of that population, just a drop in the bucket, was there that night to thank her. She is simply MAGICAL! Thank you to Dollymania for bringing up to date information on Dolly and her concert. Because of this site, I knew how much to save up for souvenirs (I bought almost one of everything there),when to purchase my pre-sale tickets and what the show would be like. I will continue visiting daily for Dolly news. THANK YOU!
Hillary Sakima
Penn Valley, Calif.
Thank you, Hillary, for your kind words and for your very sweet and touching recollections from the concert. I'm just glad you had a good time and that I was able to help in some small way.

Editor's Note: To the parents of the 4-year-old who wrote in on Sunday night -- federal law prohibits any identifying information being published on the Internet from an individual under the age of 13, so I am unable to post the letter you/she submitted. If you want to write a letter as her parents, or note in the comments section that you are sending a letter on her behalf, then it may be published. Sorry for the confusion.

Dec. 14, 2004
Hey Duane, Just a note to say that Dolly tonight in Sacramento was Amazing, Thrilling, & better than expected. She was so beutiful.. She wore the white outfit. Songs missing from Sacto were My Tennessee Mountain Home, I Dreamed About Elvis, Go To Hell, & Islands in the Stream... Shine was added as was Brand New Key, & Rocky Top. I think Little Sparrow was earlier in the show & was a beutiful rendition & I Will Always Love You came at the end before Hello God.. I loved Blue Smoke & Imagine. Cannot wait for the new album to come out. Thank you so much for all the work you do on your site. Because of you and your site & up to date info, I purchased my tickets on PreSale & was 4th row.. It was a very special night.. I took 5 friends with me & they were as amazed & thrilled as I was (If possible). Thank you again for all you do for us fans.
Kenny
Sacramento, Calif.
Well, thanks, Kenny, for your kind e-mail! I'm so glad you enjoyed the show and that she met your expectations!

Dec. 14, 2004
Hi Duane, Just wanted to write your site to say that Dolly's show in Sacramento tonight was absolutely awesome. The audience was really diverse with people young and old attending, they were really into her and she seemed to play off that energy and put on one hell of a show. she did leave out a few songs though those being: I Dreamed About Elvis, Islands In The Stream (with the Kenny doll), Go To Hell, My Tennessee Mountain Home, and When Johnny Comes Marching Home (which I don't even know if she has performed a lot on this tour). She did tell a lot of jokes and the audience seemed to love them, one in particular was "Disneyland has space mountain but I have twin peaks". There was one song though that I did notice that she might have been lip syncing to but it didn't matter there might of been more but I couldn't even tell because thats how great the show was, her voice seems like its just getting better with age. I do have to say that I had a great time and i'm sure most everybody else did too.
Oscar
Auburn, Calif.
Thanks, Oscar. Sounds like one amazing show she put on!

Dec. 14, 2004
Duane, I was meaning dolly's 1967 album hello I'm Dolly. Thanks
Scott Davis
Shelby, N.C.
Scott is referring to a Dec. 10 letter in which he asked about the CD. I misunderstood and thought he meant a CD of the current tour. My apologies. Dolly's two Monument albums (1967's Hello I'm Dolly and 1970's As Long As I Love) have been re-issued many times over the years -- first by Monument under the original titles, then by CBS after Monument went out of business, then by Sony after it bought out Columbia/CBS. They were put out on CD in 1991 under the titles World Of Dolly Parton Vol. 1 for Hello I'm Dolly and World Of Dolly Parton Vol. 2 for As Long As I Love. While both are long out-of-print, you can still find Vol. 2 on Amazon's Marketplace, and Vol. 1 shows up occasionally on eBay.

Dec. 13, 2004
Hi Duane,
      Dolly's San Jose concert was a rollicking good time last night! Only Dolly Parton could get away with such an eclectic set of songs, but it worked magically, all woven together with her engaging and funny storytelling.
      I was one of the people who has expressed disappointment in her decision to lipsynch some of the songs. But I decided early in the show to let it go so that it wouldn't distract me.
      That allowed me to enjoy the pure beauty and brilliance of Dolly. My friends and I were all glad that she got the "hits" out of the way early. We loved her jazzy version of "Grass Is Blue" and were thrilled with "Brand New Key" (complete with Dolly's add-on ponytails). I was ecstatic that she added "Shine" to the setlist.
      Undoubtedly, "Little Sparrow" is the highlight of the show. She was clearly singing live and her delivery was spinetingling. "Imagine" was a strong second.
      I don't think we could have asked more from Dolly. A highly entertaining performance from someone who was clearly having a great time.
Ryan
San Francisco, Calif.
Thanks, Ryan, for sharing your experience. I'm glad you had a great time at the show!

Dec. 13, 2004
This website is great! I love it. I learned some things that i didnt know about dolly. I even got to get my great back round on the computer. If anyone would like to email be to talk about dolly that would be great. I love dolly; even though i am only a young teenager. I would love to talk to someone about different comments about her. ALso if anyone has gone to a concert of her and wants to talk about it. Thanks..P.S. Can you tell me how to get back stage passes to see dolly one day?
Melanie
Sewaren, N.J.
The listing you sent for the Pen Pals page has been posted, and thanks so much for the compliments on the site. To answer your question on getting backstage, that's pretty difficult. Times have changed since anyone could walk right up to an artist at most venues when Dolly started her career, and security has been added. On the current tour, Dolly has been doing mostly small meet-and-greets, usually with a select few people: celebrities attending the shows, venue personnell where she's performing, local industry "insiders," family and friends of the show's band and crew, and a small number of "ordinary" fans, most of whom either won local radio contests to get back to meet Dolly, were friends of an "insider" who got them invited, or had bid on charity auction packages to get backstage. A very, very small number "talked" their way backstage, but that's pretty rare. The way most fans meet her is when she puts out a new CD she sometimes will hold a few autograph sessions to let fans get something signed, get a photo taken with her and spend a few seconds talking with her. She did this in four cities when Live And Well came out earlier this year. Maybe she'll do it somewhere close to you when her CD Blue Smoke comes out sometime early next year.

Dec. 13, 2004
Just wanted to report back on Dolly's San Jose show last night. It was simply stunning! What an incredible evening. I'm still on a high from having seen Dolly put on one hell of a great show. We had second row seats center and we were so close. I was overwhelmed seeing Dolly so close. I was able to get her to wave to me!! She looked stunning in her blue pant suit. Shortly after Two Doors Down, Dolly ripped a string of rhinestones from her costume and in amusing bit got a stage hand to come and sweep the floor saying that she didn't want to slip and fall and "break her contarct". She never missed a beat. Charming the crowd from start to finish. The near capacity crowd was wild and boisterous.....even Dolly commented how great the crowd was. A varied mix of older folks, gays, yuppies, kids. All full of love for Dolly. The set list was the same as in recent shows including Brand New Key and Shine...the Tennesse section was moved up in the show. Her rendition of The Grass Is Blue was so incredibly haunting and heartbreaking....the images on the screen during this song were beautiful. And as far as the lipsynching is concerned it was nearly flawless and only because of all the useless fuss made by so-called fans was it even remotely apparent. And only on a handful songs. The rest was live and flawless. It was an incredible show and a night i won't soon forget. I'm heading to the Sacramento show tommorrow and will report back on that show.
Manny
Burlingame, Calif.
Thanks, Manny, for your recap of the show!

Dec. 11, 2004
OK I just got home a few hours ago from the Dolly show here in So Cali(Anahiem). The only thing I can think of that would be negative would be, it went by WAY TO FAST!!!! I could sit there andlisten to her sing every song she has recorded or wanted to record. I could sit there for weeks if not months and just be the happiest person in the world. One person wrote in saying all it was was a Vegas show, well im here to tell ya, I will move to Vages and watch that show every night. She didnt do Go To Hell and the Kenny doll didnt show up :( But the show was GREAT. This was my 3rd time to see her live in concert. When ever she comes to So Cali you better bellieve I will be there. I also took my boyfriend, that told me before we started dating "dont even try to get me to like Dolly, its not gonna happen" Well I didnt try anything he did it all on his own LOL. I have a ton of pics I willget them on here and try to send them to you for posting. Have a great weekend and Thank you Dolly for everything you do for US. I Will Always Love U.
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
Thanks for the recap, Brian! I can't wait to see your photos, and I'm sure the site's other readers can't either!

Dec. 11, 2004
Please let me know why there has never been a release for the 1984 tv special Once Upon a Christmas that Dolly did with Kenny Rogers. I would LOVE to have that in my video collection. I remember watching it as a child & every time I hear the songs from the album I see the show. That is my favorite Christmas album ever.... I have loved Dolly Parton & Kenny Rogers since I was a child, & still do now. Next Christmas we are thinking of taking a trip to Dollywood, now that we just moved down here to GA. If anyone could release that special on vhs or dvd please let me know. I wish back then my parents would have taped the special. Thanks for listening…
Donna Guzzo
Snellville, Ga.
Basically, the show originally came out at a time when TV shows and specials pretty much were not released on video, unless they were concert specials for cable networks. Nowadays, a lot of old shows are coming out on video and DVD, so perhaps there's a chance we'll see this one out as well in a few years.

Dec. 10, 2004
Hi Duane, First off, I just want to say that I love your site. It is absolutely fabulous! Thank you for putting so much time into it. We Dolly fans really appreciate it =) I've noticed lately that people have been bidding quite a lot for Dolly & Kenny's Once Upon a Christmas CD on ebay (probably because the holidays are coming up). I just got mine for a lot cheaper on Amazon. Just thought I'd let people know, since I know that I, for one, am always looking for a good bargain! Happy holidays,
Sandra
Bayside, N.Y.
Thanks, Sandra, and the most joyous of seasons to you, too! And thanks for your observation. Yes, copies of the CD do show up on eBay at this time every year (as does just about every other Christmas album you can imagine as well), and people buy them even though they're still available in stores. Once Upon A Christmas has remained in print for pretty much the entire 20 years since its initial release, so you can not only find it at Amazon.com but often at local retailers as well. So unless the CD on eBay is an early edition which contains Kenny's solo numbers, there's no reason to pay more than you would in a store. (Kenny owned his own masters while recording for RCA, and as long as he was under contract with the label they were able to include his solo material. Once he left RCA, he took his songs with him, so subsequent re-issues only contained the duets with Dolly and Dolly's solo work for the album -- plus the addition of "Hard Candy Christmas," which in my opinion is not a Christmas song at all, but only happens to have the word "Christmas" in its title.)

Dec. 10, 2004
Duane I was wondering do you remember when Mel Gibson died he was to be buried at sunset cemetary. Dolly was supposed to show up as a polbearer. I was going to go but never had the chance to and was wondering did dolly or loretta lynn ever show up? do you have any pics? if she didn't do you know why she never showed up. And does anyone know where I may be able to buy a copy of dolly's cd Hello I'm Dolly. Hey Dolly Jo. Thanks Duane for a wonderful site.
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Mel Gibson, the filmmaker, is very much alive. You're thinking of country songwriting legend Don Gibson, who died last year and was buried in Sunset Cemetery. Dolly was named an honorary pallbearer for his funeral (along with Loretta Lynn, Eddie Arnold, Little Jimmy Dickens, Don and Phil Everly and Connie Smith), which is a way of recognizing people important to the life of the deceased, although they don't actually serve as the pallbearers who carry the casket. To my knowledge, though, she was unable to attend the services. As for a CD of the "Hello I'm Dolly" Tour, there has not been one released, and no one has mentioned plans for there to be one coming out, although several fans have said they would love for it to be issued as another live CD and DVD.

Dec. 10, 2004
I was just wondering how Dolly Parton is back stage. We have back stage passes for her upcoming concert. Will she talk to her fans?
Carrie
San Francisco, Calif.
If your backstage passes are actual admissions to the organized meet-and-greets Dolly is doing backstage at most dates on the tour, I can tell you that she will be very friendly and you'll think that you knew her your entire life. You'll most likely have a few minutes (two or three) to talk with her one-on-one, have a couple of things autographed, and get a couple of photos with her. If it's just a general pass just to be backstage at the venue and not admission to the meet-and-greet itself, you're not likely to be able to meet her.

Dec. 10, 2004
Hi there ! I was just wondering if you've heard anymore about Dolly possibly touring Europe next year ? I'm a new fan and would soooooo love to see her perform live !! I live in London, England. Cheers !
Grace Billington
London, England
No, unfortunately, no news yet on whether or not some European dates may be on the way for the "Hello I'm Dolly" Tour, but keep checking the news page, and as soon as anything is announced, it will certainly be noted there.

Dec. 9, 2004
I am trying to find the sheetmusic to the song God's Coloring book. If you have any information that will help me please E-mail me.
Mary Hart
Upton, Wyo.
While sheet music for the song was available when the songbook for her 1977 album "Here You Come Again" was released that year, it has long been out of print. I have seen one or two copies of the songbook up for auction on ebay over the years, but not very often. One option could be posting your request on the site's Collectors' Connection page, and if anyone has a copy, they could e-mail you directly with an offer to sell it to you. If you'd like to do that, please let me know.

Dec. 9, 2004
hey Duane! i just wanted to say i love ya site and it has a lot of great information for all the Dolly lovers out there. Keep up the GREAT work and maybe i will talk to you soon. oh ye before i forget hey to Scott love ya and hey to Jen my best friend. Duane ya a great person and I know that this site will be around for many years to come. Wish me good luck with my singing. love always
Dolly Jo
Destrehan, La.
Thanks for the compliments, Dolly Jo. Sorry I haven't had time to write much. It's been a very busy few weeks :)

Dec. 9, 2004
I am 20 years old, and i was raised listening to Dolly Parton since day one. My interest in her has gone up even more throughout the years. I really appriciate the time and effort Doly makes to do the things she does. She is my idle, and always will be. There is no one in the world as great as she.
Andrea
Wilmore, Ky.
Thanks, Andrea. I agree!

Dec. 9, 2004
Dear Editor, I received a call as to Dollymania. And I have to say,I find it interesting. Actually some of the letters are intertaining. I can answer some of the letters and concerns that fans has questions about. I will not spend my time defending Dolly,for Dolly I am sure if she lokks at these letters gets a big laugh out of alot of them. I sure have. I find it interesting,of the following Dolly has. I personally know Dolly through a close frind that was once her personal manager,when she was managed by Gallin&Morey&Assicoates. Dolly is a lady that speaks her mind and is a great business person. She loves her fans,and she loves to sing. Its her career. Back in Dollys early career she was easy to walk up to and chat and shed sign anything. She had fans that was near her most of the time,visiting her in her dressing room and spending time with her&Judy Ogle. There was no security,as there is now. Times has changed,Dolly has to be surrounded by security and she is not that easy to get close to anymore. Here in Los Angeles you can see Dolly out at the malls and different places. I live in the same area as to where Dolly has a home here. Dolly is a great person,and she would love to be able to walk around as most of us do without being paid any attention to. But she cant. At one time Dolly would give a fan almost anything from autographs to personal items as cloths and shoes and jewelery. She donates alot to charity. I notices some letters that caught my attention. And I would like to address them,as for Dollys autographed items. I do do know Dolly usually signs everything. The best way to know a read Dolly autograph is to get it in person. Alot of Dolly items is offered on eBay,and I get pretty mad at how some sellers can even list some of the stuff on Dolly as they do. You can get some nice Dolly items on eBay,and yet alot of it is horrible. I do know Dolly is looking into preventing alot of the stuff from being sold on eBay and I can not understand why eBay lets alot of the stuff be sold,knowing its not legal. Who am I, anyhow if you buy Dolly stuff on eBay,(beware). I want to thank all you Dolly fans,and Marry Christmas.
Denny Rosencrantz
Los Angeles, Calif.
Thanks, Denny, for your comments. I do know that Dolly's people have contacted eBay in the past and required they remove some clearly illegal items, but they can't catch everything. That's also the stock answer eBay gives when asked about the subject of illegitimate or pirated items -- there are so many items listed there daily, that it is impossible to stop all of them. However, if an eBay member complains about a specific item, eBay will investigate it and likely remove the item from auction. As for the letters, yes, some of them are quite "interesting," and I hope Dolly gets a laugh out of some of them rather than getting her feelings hurt by the very few people who write negative things.

Dec. 8, 2004
In response to the recent email about "Imagine," I have to say that I am a Christian and when I hear that song, I just hear someone's perspective. It's not my viewpoint, but it's still someone's well-written viewpoint. That's the whole point of the song, I think--the person who wrote it felt that way or was writing about someone who felt that way. It's a classic...Dolly likes to cover classics and breathe new life into them. My dad is a Vietnam vet and doesn't care for that type of music or lyrics, but like he always tells me, "I don't agree, but that is why I served my country and fought for freedom--so other people can believe what they want and express it." When Reba McEntire did "Fancy," I don't think it reflected her "evilness" or went against her Christian principles. It's a song about prostitution. The singer isn't condoning it--she's telling a well-written story. The same can be said for "Imagine." That's how many people felt at that time in our nation. Why can't Dolly just sing about what other people felt regardless of how she personally feels? Why does her singing this classic have to mean she believes all that personally? Does every singer have to sing only songs that are autobiographical? Good or evil, the sentiments expressed in that song are a reality. Someone at some time felt them. And as far as "Hello God" goes, it's my understanding that Dolly wrote it in response to 9/11. Just because she wrote each line, does not mean that she questions her own faith when it says, "Are you listening?" or "I've questioned your existence." As an English major, the first thing I was ever taught was that you never assume that the writer of poetry is the persona in the poem. And seriously, what if she did question God? No Christians whatsoever have ever questioned God at some point in their lives and not trusted Him? Hmmm...I find that hard to believe. And, I think that's how many Americans felt that day--Dolly is the people's poet, able to express what others can not. Because she sings a song containing some words implying that there is not heaven and hell doesn't mean she believes that. On the contrary, if you've followed Dolly's career or personal beliefs for any amount of time, you know that she is rock solid in her belief in God. The amazing thing about Dolly is that she admits she is not perfect and loves and respects everyone no matter what flaws they may have. What a wonderful Christian quality that is! She's one of the most accepting people I've ever met (Yup, I finally met her Sunday night in Houston, but that's another story.) So, really, it sorta seems to me that because she isn't judgmental, she can actually record a well-written song like "Imagine" without judging it's writer--I'm willing to bet she just likes the song. And as far as the concern about putting it on a cd and releasing it to the public, she is. Those are the breaks. If people don't care for the song, that's what "skip" is for. And what if she really does support what the lyrics are saying personally? Is that a good reason to condemn her? See, I was just thinking that if this one thing is tainting someone's feelings for Dolly, aren't we lucky that Jesus doesn't let what we do taint his love for us? Every last one of us would be in hell. What's that line in "Steel Magnolias?" Oh, yeah, it's "Honey, get off the cross, somebody else needs the wood."
Ann
Houston, Texas
Thanks, Ann, for your well thought-out and well-written reply. Yes, most people have a difficult time separating the singer from the song. While we usually can understand that an actor is a different person from the role he or she plays in a film, I guess because music makes such a primal connection among us we seem to think a singer is living every word of every song and believes and supports whatever the song says. That's the power of music. But, in reality, singers are nothing more than another form of actor, playing a character in a musical story, be it a love story, a comedy, or a drama. Barbara Streisand, who is Jewish, records religious Christmas carols. Does that make her a born-again Christian? No. Jack White of The White Stripes is straight but records a cover version of Dolly's "Jolene" where he's begging, "Please don't take my man." Does that make him gay? No. Dolly records a love song with Rod Stewart. Does that make them lovers? No. She writes a story song about an abandoned little girl and her puppy dog dying. Does that mean she condones killing off all orphaned children and their pets? Of course not. Dolly records a John Lennon song that imagines a fantasy world without religion. Does that mean she's not a Christian? No. In fact, when I saw her perform it in Biloxi, immediately after the song she commented something along the lines of: "You know, that song says imagine no religion. Well, I can never imagine there not being religion. It's such an important part of my life." She then went into how her grandfather was a Pentecostal preacher, leading into her spiritual number "Go To Hell."

Dec. 8, 2004
In response to this shocking email that I have just read on Dolly's singing of "Imagine" - I cannot believe what I am reading. I am a believer in our President, and troops, and I personally believe that we should be in Iraq and I don't think Dolly sang this song out of disrespect of anybody, ESPECIALLY GOD, whom she truly believes in and I truly believe in.
      The song "Imagine" was written in the Vietman era and I personally agree with the song for that particular time. I don't think this has anything to do with the fact that Dolly sang it - for her own reasons - it is a beautiful song the way she has it arranged and her voice sounds beautiful when she sings it.
      As for "Hello God", I feel that this song just speaks about questions we've all, at one time or another, whether you want to admit it or not, have had these questions in the back of your mind. This song is just pleading with God - just listen to the words - "Hello God, we really need you, we can't make it without you, Hello God, please forgive us, for we know not what we do, give us one more chance to prove ourselves to you". Yes, Dwayne, I agree with you, "if you are a Christian you know that you yourself are not without sin, as Christians believe no human can be, so I urge you to consider whether Jesus would condone your casting these stones". WHO ARE WE TO BE JUDGING ANYBODY???????
Crystal Ellis
Calhoun, Ga.
Thanks, Crystal, for sharing your views. I agree that "Imagine" is a beautiful song -- it has special personal meaning to me because it was the first song I ever performed as a solo before a large audience -- and Dolly's version sounds even better than John Lennon's original, which was recently named the third greatest song of all time by Rolling Stone magazine.

Dec. 8, 2004
How much longer do you think it will be before the vault store is ready?
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Thanks for asking, Scott. I'm not sure. For those who don't know, the "Vault" store will offer some rare, some unique and some common Dolly items of which I've acquired more than one in my years as a collector. I've managed to go through my collection to cull out these duplicates, grade and identify them. The next step is to type it all up and format a page. Unfortunately, I haven't had time to do that yet. Hopefully I will be able to get to it in the next few weeks, maybe over the holidays.

Dec. 8, 2004
Not that expect Dolly to read this, but just in case someone with the proper connections does... My brother, my wife and I purchased tickets for my parents to attend Dolly's concert in Boise Idaho on December 16 as a birthday gift to my mother, Nona. Although her actual birthday isn't until January 1, I'm sure it will be a tremendous thrill for her to meet the one entertainer she has admired the most over the years. Mom looks forward to Dolly's TV specials, Dolly's movies and has a number of her albums. Is there a chance Dolly could sing Mom 'Happy Birthday' during her Boise show? She'll be sitting in Section C32!
Jeff
Blackfoot, Idaho
I don't know if she'll see your note, and if she did whether she'd be able to wish your mother a happy birthday or not. I doubt you'd be able to meet her, as her meet-and-greets are usually very small, but you can always hope!

Dec. 8, 2004
Does anyone know where Dolly Lives? In the City or country? Is She still Married? Whats her husband do all day long?
Adam
New Orleans, La.
While I understand she has a few residences (including in Los Angeles and New York as well as a farm near Dollywood and her mountain cabin retreat on her family's old homestead in the Smokies), she spends most of her time on her estate in the Nashville suburb of Brentwood. She and Carl Dean are still married (they started dating 40 years ago and will celebrate their 39th wedding anniversary next May), and he works in construction.

Dec. 7, 2004
Just wanted to let everyone know how incredible Dolly was. What a talent she is and so incredibly diverse. From country, to pop, to bluegrass, to jazz she had all the bases covered. This was the first time I have been able to go to a Dolly concert and I have to say I will never forget it. She is a true entertainer and one of the few true legends we have left. God bless you Dolly and thanks for all the wonderful memories. You have touch some souls down in Houston and we love you for it. Until next time.…
Daniel Ballard
Houston, Texas
Thanks, Daniel. Glad you had a great time. It's one awesome show!

Dec. 7, 2004
I consider it an honor and privilege to have been able to see Dolly's show in Houston last night with my baby girl (7 yrs old). I have loved and respected Dolly Parton since I was a little girl, singing off an 8 track with my sister. My mother in law planned a girls' night for herself, her mother, her daughter, me and my daughter. I sat watching this entertainer with a special feeling in my heart, knowing that someday my little girl and I would be able to share a memory of seeing this legend, live in person. None of us experienced the least bit of disappointment in the show. It was true Dolly style... classy, fun and down to earth. This is the first concert I truly felt like "you get what you pay for." Keep up the good work, Dolly. God bless you, always!
The Belcher Family
Spring, Texas
Thanks, gals, for sharing your experience!

Dec. 7, 2004
I really want to thank dolly personally for who she is and for all that she has done to inspire me. I have read her biography and heard most all of her songs and I watch as many tv specials as I can. I dont look at dolly as a idol or a star really I look up to her as a hero or better yet I can say shes almost like a mom to me. she is not stuck up or thinks she is better than anyone else. Dolly is down to earth and honest. I honestly have never met anyone who hasen't at least heard of Dolly. My only problem Is I live at home because I am only 17 and my step dad don't like dolly so I have no one to talk to about her. I would love to have some pen pals to E-mail me. I have a few but not alot. I want to thank Frankie J. for being a friend Love ya :-). Thanks Duane for beimg a friend and answer my questions and thanks for this wonderful site. I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Scott, thanks for your letter. Hopefully Dolly will see it here, although I cannot guarantee that. And if anyone wants to trade letters with Scott, see his listing on the site's Pen Pals page here.

Dec. 7, 2004
Just looked at a new National Enquire, there is a picture of Dolly with the Kenny doll and a small story, and in the middle of the paper, there is a supperimposed picture of Dolly with Paul McCartney and it says he was already signed to do the super bowl and that he would love to do a song with Dolly. Cross your fingers.
Richard Burkholder
Grandview, Mo.
Well, it is a tabloid, and you know how accurate their reporting is :) Although I did take a look at it, and the note with Paul is shown on their jokes page, where it appeared all of the items start with a line that really happened and then have a joke line added. So my suspicion is that he never said anything about wanting to perform with Dolly, and instead they inserted the mention of her (and the mention of Janet Jackson in last year's halftime show) as a boob joke.

Dec. 7, 2004
just wanted to say how shocked i am about how many fans are trashing dolly for her concert tour,and some as in the letter from "Jennifer Thomas" talking about how bad dolly looks. id like to see what this "Jennifer Thomas" looks like!!! i went to the columbus ohio show and thought it was the best show ever,sure dolly lip-sang some songs and some were live but so what,it did not take away from the show at all,im just glad she went back on the road for us the "so called" fans,and as for her looks, i think dolly is beautiful, i dont think she looks old at all, i got to meet her at evansville walmart and was shocked just by her beauty in real life.just cant believe how some of these "fans" are acting. as much as i want to see dolly tour in 2005, i kinda hope she doesnt if people are only going to dog her!
Chad
Georgetown, Ohio
I agree, Chad, but you just never can please everyone, can you. Hopefully the very vocal minority of concert attendees who are complaining won't ruin it for the vast majority having a wonderful time at her shows.

Dec. 7, 2004
Dear Dolly,
      How much I enjoyed your concert, your humor, your singing, enjoying your many musical talents, hearing of your wonderful roots. It is people and families like yours that are truly the "salt of the earth".
      After your mentioning your favorite song, "Coat of Many Colors" particularly on the anniversary of your mother's promotion and home-going, and sharing of your Christian heritage, I was sickened by what followed so closely. The inclusion of John Lennon's song was one of the most evil and subtle attacks on patriotism and Christianity that I could IMAGINE . "nothing to die for"???? I would suspect every service man, and every family who has lost a loved one in the service of their country and for the protection of our freedom, was shocked and appalled by those words. As a Christian, I can't imagine anything more evil than the words "no heaven and no hell". To even plant such a horrid thought in the minds of people suggests no accountability to our Creator, as those who admire the Lennon's of this world would love to embrace.
      I am, like yourself, a product of the hippy generation, also born in 1946. I loved your Janis Joplin song, and your PMS & menopause choruses, your Elvis routine, every other song you sang. When you came to the last song, "God are You Listening" it was no surprise as I listened closely to those words. God is always listening, however, when one really doesn't want to hear what He has to say, His message will not be received because the heart is not seeking Truth. He speaks, but we often don't hear.
      How I pray that you will not release such an evil song as "Imagine" to your public. If you want to IMAGINE something, the words to Bart Millard's song, "I Can Only Imagine" (sung by Amy Grant,below) would be one that would honor your heritage and your Lord Who has so graciously prospered your career and blessed many of us with your music and talents.
      A saddened fan,
I CAN ONLY IMAGINE:
I can only imagine what it will be like
When I walk by Your side
I can only imagine what my eyes will see
When Your face is looking at me
Surrounded by Your glory, what will
My heart feel
Will I dance for You Jesus or in awe of You
Be still
Imagine, I can only imagine
I can only imagine all creation bowed down
The whole universe saying Your name out loud
I can only imagine all our broken lives
Resurrected in the healing light
Surrounded by Your glory, what will my
Heart feel
Will I dance for You Jesus or in awe of You
Be still
Will I stand in your presence or to my knees
Will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah, Will I be able to
Speak at all
I can only imagine, I can only imagine
Surrounded by forgiveness, what will my
Heart feel
Will I dance for You Jesus or in awe of
You be still
Will I stand in your presence or to my
Knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine, Oh I can only imagine
I can only, I can only, I can only imagine
I can only imagine, just imagine
I can only imagine, imagine
~~
Sing the wondrous love of Jesus
Sing His mercy and His grace
In the mansions bright and blessed
He'll prepare for us a place
Bart Millard (sung by Amy Grant)
Debbie Lockey
Missouri City, Texas
I don't even know what to say to that one! First off, as has been noted here many times, this is a newsmagazine dedicated to Dolly, not her official site (as she does not operate one), so you are not writing Dolly directly. After reading your letter several times, I will suggest that you should remember this was a protest song written in the face of the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights movement and the greatest social unrest this country had seen since the Civil War. One can be very patriotic and still criticize one's nation when it does wrong -- in fact, that is the core of our freedom and the duty of a truly patriotic person. One can still support our troops for their bravery and dedication while believing that the war they have been ordered to fight is wrong. And one can still be a Christian and criticize the heinous acts committed in the name of religion, as every large-scale atrocity committed by the hands of man, including the Sept. 11th terrorist attacks, was carried out under the guise of religion and in the name of someone's God. These were the problems to which Lennon sought to call people's attention through the song. I don't know what Dolly's reasons for recording "Imagine" were, so I cannot comment on them, but the song is full of truth and honesty. Yes, Dolly's finale was "Hello God," perhaps the most soul-jarring song she has ever written. Questioning whether God exists in a world where so much hatred runs rampant, where as Dolly so eloquently stated, "We fight and kill each other, in your name, defending you," calling on Him to allow man to start over in peace, these are sentiments very close to those espoused in "Imagine" and not inconsistent with most Christians' spiritual journeys. Let us also remember that one's religion is a very personal thing and very different from one person to another, even within Christianity. What one denomination considers Satanic another considers Holy -- each is entitled to his or her own truths cemented in a personal relationship with God. Finally, if you are a Christian you know that you yourself are not without sin, as Christians believe no human can be, so I urge you to consider whether Jesus would condone your casting these stones.

Dec. 7, 2004
Hi Duane, For the reader who wanted to know about songs that were written ABOUT Dolly Parton I thought of a couple of others. One is called Ode To Dolly by a group called Sweet 75, The Night Dolly Parton Was Almost Mine from the musical Pump Boys And Dinettes and also Always Wanting You by Merle Haggard. Hope it helps :)
Manny
Burlingame, Calif.
Thanks, Manny. I had completely forgotten that The Hag wrote his No. 1 hit "Always Wanting You" about his unrequited crush on Dolly, and about the "Pump Boys And Dinettes" number. I had not heard of the Sweet 75 song, though.

Dec. 6, 2004
Dear Duane...november 14th was my mom`s birthday so I treated her to a REAL LIVE DOLLY concert in FAIRFAX Va..my Mom was 67..she loved it,,she had always told me Dolly was God`s gift to people like her because my Mom came out of Shifflett Hollar in the Blue Ridge mountain`s(my mother`s maiden name was Shifflett)...3 miles at the foothills East of the SKYLINE NATIONAL PARK,,so she always related to DOLLY`S mountain songs (DOLLY BEING FROM THE GREAT SMOKIES MOUNTAINS OF EAST TN..) and could relate to the PENECOSTAL upbringing(being raised also in a Penecostal church) that Dolly also experience in her childhood..My Mom loved "GO TO HELL" it was a highlight of the eveing because if you knew anything about that church background..Dolly reflexed it on stage that nite for sure! IT MADE A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY for her..I would like to thank Dolly for being close to us on 11/14 and making it so special..as far as Dolly lip synching..the 9 to 5 song was "GREAT".have never heard a studio version of it sound that good! Also,,the Elvis impersonator song was my personal; favorite!! yes..I heard some sound of techinal problem during HELLO GOD and I realized she was lip synching..she was beutiful as ever during that performance but I told my MOM..she is lip synching..my Mom responce was "I DON`T CARE..THERE WILL BE ONLY ONE DOLLY PARTON" I will close with that..Dolly..we love you...we will always love you!
Steven Wood
Staunton, Va.
Thanks, Steven, for sharing your experience at the concert. I'm glad you and your mom had a wonderful time. I think every real fan has during this tour.

Dec. 6, 2004
I was changing radio stations in the car and I over herd the DJ and some girl talking about Dolly and Paul McCartney, and that they hope Dolly dont pull a Janet cuz if she dose Paul will get two black eyes................ Is Dolly going to do the Super Bowl?
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
That was probably just a boob joke. As far as I know, Dolly is not scheduled to appear on next year's Super Bowl.

Dec. 6, 2004
dear editor, i noticed alot of letters to you was asking on dolly's autographed items. i have worked in the music business for the past 30 years,i am now retired. i have met dolly many times,and her family. its a well known practice,that stars have someone else that signs their photo's,due to the stars do not have the time to autograph every thing that is requested. fan clubs sign the photo's or a secratary signs for the stars. the stars can have anyone employeed to sign the items for them. its usually a person that can sign their names so well that even a exspert cant tell the difference between the fake&the real. personally i do not like this type of practice,for its the fans that put the country stars where they are today,without us buying their records&cds,they'd not be the star they are today. i feel if a star cannot sign anything for a fan,then do not send the fan a fake. as for dolly parton's autographed photo's,dolly can sign very good if she stops and take's time to sign,she can also sign very badly if she is in a rush,it all depends on the time and situation of the signing. dolly signs differently at all times,i know her autograph well,and the photo's that come from the dollywood foundation are real. dolly is a talented lady and very artistic in writing,she can sign her name in about five different ways,and it all depends on the time she has to sit and sign items. i hope i have answered the question as to dolly's autograph. if i do find out if anything is being foundation signed i will be back to let you know. as for now i have to say dolly signs everything that comes out of the dollywood foundation. i do have some very good friends that will know and i will contact them.,to see if i am wrong.
Jennifer Thomas
Nashville, Tenn.
Thanks, Jennifer, for providing your insight.

Dec. 6, 2004
Hi , I have a question, I have a anuerysm on my heart and already had surgery to remove one , where I almost died, as a mater if fact the Dr's told my family that I was not goinf to live thru the nite, well Now Im facing death here cause the drs have found another Anuerysm on my heart and cant do surgery on this one due to the location of it.....I have always wanted to meet Dolly, so if anyone out there has infornation on who i can speak with at Dollys office to try and meet her , please let me know Thanks
Jody Graddick
Gaston, S.C.
I'm sure, Jody, that you have all of the prayers of the readers of this site. However, as I always tell anyone who writes with any direct requests to Dolly, I cannot forward your question to Dolly, but it is being published where, hopefully, she might see it. I'd suggest you may wish to contact her Nashville office with your request.

Dec. 6, 2004
Dear Dolly Pardon, Hello my name is Ron Ziegler.I wrote a letter To Roddy McDowall along time he sent me a nice picture signed.In return i sent a drawing.I would like to send you a drawing too,could you send me a p.o.box were ican send you a drawing too.I saw your movie to night UnLikely Angel.My best refences are my parents, Martha & Paul Ziegler Thank you Dolly Pardon for making the movie UnLikely Angel.Take care God Bless. Sincerely W.Friendship
Ron Ziegler
Hollywood, Calif.
I'm sure Dolly would love to have your drawing, but as I told the other reader, you have not written Dolly directly, but rather an online newsmagazine dedicated to her, and I cannot forward your message directly to her. Perhaps she will see it here; perhaps she may not, but if you wish to write her, there are two addresses that are public information and have been widely published to which mail may be sent. These are available from the site's Frequently Asked Questions page.

Dec. 4, 2004
Just wanted to let others knowthat are going to the Anaheim concerton the 9th that I went to the box office and asked about cameras. The lady said best thing to do is call the DAY OF the show to make sure, but she says most of the time cameras are allowed as long as they are just regular 35mm cameras or even the throw aways that you can buy at any store.
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
Thanks, Brian. It is a good rule to always call the venue the day of the show to inquire about cameras, as they usually won't have a final decision until that day.

Dec. 4, 2004
I'm doing a biography on u and there isn't a whole lot of imfomation. Well at least good imformation. I need things on family and Struggles, Personal Characteristics, and Accomplishments.Also wat u r doing now these days.
Samantha Crowley
Becker, Minn.
Thanks, Samantha, for your letter. I must note, however, that you have written an online newsmagazine dedicated to Dolly, not Dolly herself, but I will try to help you out. For the type of information you seem to need, I'd suggest going to your local library and checking out their copy of Dolly's autobiography, Dolly: My Life And Other Unfinished Business. In it, she talks about her family, struggles, accomplishments and more. You may also wish to look into some of the family history chronicles written by her sister, Wiladeene (sometimes card catalogues list her without a last name, and sometimes with the Parton name). These include All Day Singing And Dinner On The Grounds , Smoky Mountain Memories and In the Shadow of a Song: The Story of the Parton Family. For general information on her life and career, I invite you to explore this site's many sections.

Dec. 4, 2004
Can you please tell me which artists have sung songs ABOUT Dolly Parton? Which artists? Song Titles? When released? Thanks in anticipation of your help.
Pete Wood
Shefford, Beds, England
Ooo, that's a hard one :) I don't think there are that many. Off the top of my head, I know Lee Hazelwood had a song titled "Dolly Parton's Guitar" that came out in 1979. Bobby Braddock had a comedy tune out called "Dolly Parton's Hits" back in the mid-1980s. I know there was a punk band, The Briefs, that had a song titled "Dolly Parton" about four years ago, but I've never heard it, so I don't know if it was actually about her or not. Likewise, a British punk band called Silverfish had a song of the same title around 1990, but I've not heard that one either, so I don't know what it's about. Anyone else out there know of others?
Note: A reader wrote in and reminded me that Elizabeth Cook put out the song "Dolly" on her debut album two years ago, complaining of the hassles a female singer faces and asking "Dolly, did you go through this?" Thanks!

Dec. 3, 2004
I was wondering do you know of a web sight I can go to so I can See a picture of Dolly's home.
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Off the top of my head, I cannot think of a site that has posted photos of Dolly's house. However, if you want to make a trip to your local bookstore, I do believe there is a shot in Alanna Nash's biography on her, Dolly.

Dec. 2, 2004
I just wanted to coment on the reader that said "while everyone else was growing up with Madonna", I have to tell you as a 31 year old male that fell in love with Dolly at the age of 7, think I was in 4th grade. I was the only kid at school that knew who Dolly was. I got made fun of because I listened to her and country music but did I care? NO!! The funny thing is I looked back on some of my old report cards for school and in 4th grade my teacher put in the coments part, "your son talks way to much about Dolly Parton, it would be nice if he could put that much effort in his school work." I could not belive that I about died laughing. Then in about 6th grade Madonna came out with her first LP and I was so into her that I started to forget about Dolly. That Christmas my grandparents bought me the Dolly Parton scrap book. I looked at my mom and said, "dont they know im done with Dolly?" My grandparents were the ones that got me liking her by taking me to see 9 to 5 when it came out, so I didnt want to hurt there feelings. Well, lets just say I still like Madonna, BUT I LOVE Dolly and will till the day I die. I have all her LPs CDs movies (vhs/dvd)saw her in concert w/ halos and horns, wnet to cross roads with her and Mallisa Ethridge, met her at her Little Sparrow signing, saw her live at the Tonight Show and Arsenial Hall in the 90s, and I will be in the 3rd row for the Hello im Dolly tour here in Anahiem. So yeah im still a DIEHARD Dolly fan. I Will Always Love You Dolly
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
Thanks, Brian, for your comments.

Dec. 2, 2004
Please could someone help me I am trying to get tickets to see Dolly in Us during early 2005 and I don't know where to look can anyone help please Thanks
Lloyd James
Kent, England
The information you request is not currently available. Dolly said when she started her current tour that if it is successful, she hopes to extend it into 2005. The current leg ends on Dec. 19, so I would not really expect an announcement of whether or not it will continue until at least a few weeks after that. Also, there has been some talk of some 2005 dates being played in the U.K., so you might get to see her over there instead!

Dec. 2, 2004
I have tickets to Dolly Partons concert and would love to be able to meet her in person! Is my life time goal!!! I have not been to a concert in years and this if my first time out and away from my two children. I would love to make this the best time of my life but only one part is missing!! BACK STAGE PASSES? How do I get back stage passes?? Could you please respond to this it is of the most concern to me! Thank you very much!! wishes to meet dolly!
Mary
Olympia, Wash.
While Dolly has been doing some meet-and-greets backstage at many dates on the current tour, they have mostly been for very small groups, making it very difficult to get an invitation to attend. Some fans have gotten in because they were friends with an "insider" such as a venue manager or music industry person, others have purchased admission from charity auctions on ebay, while others have won local radio station contests to get in, and one or two very lucky fans have been admitted by Dolly's people the day of the show under special circumstances (such as one who had made a framed presentation for her about her parents). Unfortunately, I doubt I'll be much help in directing you to a way to get in, but I wish you the best of luck!

Dec. 1, 2004
Dolly, My family are big, big fans! My family, as a tradition, has watched two of our favorite movies one being Dolly & Kenny's Christmas, this is the one that Dolly sings all the songs off the CD to Kenny, she is in a bar in a pink dress and Kenny is in the Army with a lot of service men and the other is Smoky Mountain Christmas. We have moved and our son has gotten married and has two young sons of his own now and would like to carry "the family" tradition on with his family. We have searched everywhere for those movies (VHS or DVD) but we are not able to find them. Can you help me out with this. I will be happy to pay whatever for them. It would make our Christmas so special if we could get the two of them. I hope you can help us. Thank YOU!
P.S. We so enjoyed Dollywood, we came to Tennessee for a school function with our daughter and the whole family took the time out of schedule to visit Dollywood, we loved it!
Ginny Isfeld
Milwaukie, Ore.
While both are great to watch, they are, unfortunately, very difficult to come by. The special with Kenny Rogers has never been released commercially, although fans have long traded copies among each other. I have seen illegally pirated copies for sale on both VHS and DVD on eBay every holiday season, so you might try that route if you're so inclined. The music from the show, however, is still available on the CD Once Upon A Christmas, although it only contains Dolly's solo work and the duets with Kenny, as he owns the masters to his solo work on RCA, so his solo cuts aren't on the re-issue. A Smoky Mountain Christmas was released on VHS several years ago, although it is long out-of-print. Each Christmas, I do see a dozen or so original-release videotapes of it come up on eBay, and they have some here in Amazon's marketplace. In addition, an apparently licensed version on DVD came out about a year ago in Asia, and while I haven't seen any actual stores which have imported it for sale to the public, several importers have been selling them on eBay.

Dec. 1, 2004
I LOVE this site. I particularly enjoy the news section with it's virtually up to the hour news updates. It's perfect for people who like to know what Dolly's up to every minute of the day. It's also been enlightening as far as showing what a truly good person Dolly is. I was aware that she was a philanthropist, but had no idea just how much she gives back to the world, aside from her amazing music. It really has touched me. My comments about Dolly herself, I'll keep brief, because I could go on for hours if left unchecked. But what I'd really like to propose is that they release a live DVD of these Hello, I'm Dolly shows. I really enjoyed the Live and Well show, it's one of the best live DVDs I've seen. But the Hello, I'm Dolly shows are done on such a large scale performance wise that I think they should be preserved. Too, I'd give a lesser body part to have a copy of the voice and fiddle version of "Little Sparrow." Anyway, that's not all I have to say by a long shot, but I'll leave off now by just saying you do a great job running the site and keeping us all up to date on our favorite Smokey Mountain Goddess!
Matt
Wilkesboro, N.C.
Thanks, so much, Matt!

Dec. 1, 2004
I got to see Dolly in concert at Fairfax VA. I just want to tell you the show was awesome & Dolly had it going on. But everything was just great because it was Dolly & her band. Just seeing her up on stage & listening to her joking around was worth all the money I paid. I was on the 1st row & a guy down from me yelled Love you Dolly & she said I told you to wait in the truck. Michael really liked The Grascal's too. This is just my opinion, but I think people should appreciate Dolly for who she is & what she does for us, the fans (because she is great at it). Instead of what they want or think she should be doing. BUT, that's just my opinion. I've seen Dolly in Parade's in Pigeon Forge & Dollywood. I also saw her in concert at Dollywood. She was real good at Dollywood, but I think I really like Dolly in her Hello I'm Dolly tour. If I could I would travel to all her concerts for the rest of the year (That's how much I loved the show). My dream still is to meet Dolly shake her hand or give her a hug, and tell her Thanks for everything. 1 more thing. I just want to Thank Dolly for Dollywood, I love it there. I got a season pass for there so I can go to every event you have going on there. My nephew's both love the Kids fest & Smokey Mountain Christmas. Also My 3 year old nephew loves Dolly's train (he calls it that). It's funny to watch him cause when he see Dolly's picture or a Butterfly he looks & will say Dolly ParTon (he makes sure you hear that T). We are going again in December & can't wait. You know? Dolly is famous, funny & just a great person. But she is human too & has feeling like the rest of us. So give her a break already. Thank you, Duane for this Dolly site..
Susan Blatzer
Martinsburg, W.V.
Thanks, Susan, for your letter. What a cute story about your nephew! You know, the most serious Dolly fans I've ever met fell in love with her as children, so I suspect your nephew's going to be one!

Dec. 1, 2004
Hi! I love your site! You are so clever to have gotten all this information! I can spend a good hour reading and looking on here from time to time. Im a huge Dolly Parton fan, While everyone else was growing up on Madonna I was jammin to Dolly. I was wondering a few things -- We all know she wears beautiful wigs. But I was wondering who is her personal wig maker? Also... With her long acrylic nails and playing the guitar. I remeber seeing on the web that she uses differnt tabs and chords to enable her to play with her nails. Is the true or false? What is Dolly Partons Vocal Range? Has that ever been documented? With a Angerlic Soulful sweet voice like that I was suprised to not find anything online documenting her vocal range. Does Dolly Yodel? Like a good old proper yodel? If so what songs? Does Dolly still bleach her natural hair blonde under the wigs? Why is it that she still often wears corsets or waist cinchers? She is no longer overweight ("I never considered her to be personally ever") but when she was she wore alot of cinchers and corsets, yet now from the photos i have seen she not only doesn't need them for apperance nor garment construction... So I was wondering if you knew why she still often wears them? Who are the surgeons that have done Dollys Cosmetic work? Does she still own the coat of many colors she her mother made her? What does Dollys houses look like? You often see stars in magazines giving tours of their homes, but I have never seen anything like that for Dolly. Why doesn't she and Kenny Rodgers get married? What happened with the legal suit that was filed against her by her co star cant remember his name when they were doing duets and she left to go solo and break into pop. What was the outcome of that? What is Dollys Natural eye color? Is there more than one recording of Applejack available? I loved that song when she was singing it live in concert on a video. The released one as much as I love it doesn't have the oomf that the live concert one had. Why did Dolly stop her wig line? I love the way you have organised your site its very user friendly. With the news and articles and well arranged galleries all so cool! Thank you for making this available to us all who love Dolly. Has Dolly ever undergone vocal training even though she is a natural singer? Is the charm that she posseses common in the folk of tenessee and back in the mountains? Does her sister Willadene wear wigs too or is her hair just done bouffant? Nikita is she Dollys sister too? Or is she a cousin or something? Is the wishy wash laundry matt still there? Why doesn't operate a fan club to send fan letters too? I like her talent, such amazing talent and its not just the beautiful vocals and beauty but such a wonderful genuine personality. Shes always smiling and happy. ooh hey! I have an idea. What about... if you were to set up a Dolly Parton look alike page on here? So fans can throw on a blonde wig and dress up like her? I know there are professional ones but you never know. Theres always that rare one that no one knew about. Just an idea. Does Dolly Parton every cuss? Hmmm I think I have run out of questions for now..... hehe. Thank you for your wonderful site. It rocks!
Dee
Auckland, New Zealand
My, Dee, you are an inquisitive one! Let's see how many of these I can answer off the top of my head. I don't know who makes Dolly's personal wigs. As for the guitar, she does play in what's called "open tuning," which is easier for those with long nails. I don't know if anyone has ever sat down and calculated her complete range, but I bet it's at least two or two-and-a-half octaves. She is a soprano. She has done a few yodels in song, with a couple of mini-yodels in some tracks on her recent bluegrass albums, but her clearest yodel came on her 1970 top three hit "Mule Skinner Blues (Blue Yodel No. 8)." Yes, last I heard from someone who saw her natural hair, she still had it bleached. I don't know if she wears real corsets now, although she has worn a few outfits that resemble them in recent years. In her autobiography, she noted that while she has had many surgeons work on her, her main ones are Dr. Frank Kramer (face) and Dr. John Grossman (body), both in Los Angeles; Dr. Arnold William Kliein (dermatology); and in New York, Dr. Fred Martens, Dr. Richard Stark, and Dr. John Kral -- she urges anyone considering plastic surgery to contact the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons Referral Service at 1-800-635-0635 to get a qualified doctor. What appears to be the original Coat of Many Colors is on display in her museum at Dollywood. Photos of her house have appeared in many of her biographies and a few magazine articles -- it's described as looking similar to Tara from "Gone With The Wind." She and Kenny are married -- just not to each other :) Kenny Rogers, who has been married several times, had twin boys over the summer with current wife, Wanda, and Dolly has been married to contractor Carl Dean for 38 years. The lawsuit was brought in the late 1970s by former duet partner and producer Porter Wagoner, who claimed she owed him $3 million and a percentage of her current and future income because he discovered her and made her a star -- she settled the lawsuit out of court for about $1 million cash, and they didn't speak for nearly a decade, when they reunited on stage. They've remained good friends ever since. Her eye color is an odd one -- depending on how the light hits her eyes, they can appear brown, greenish or bluish, although never a true green or blue. They most often appear brown. Yes, she has recorded "Applejack" three times -- once for her 1994 live album, once for her 2004 live album and once with a few dozen of Nashville's legends for its original release in 1977. I understand that her wig line was apparently discontinued by the manufacturer because it didn't sell well enough for them. Thanks for your compliments on the site -- I appreciate them! Dolly really hasn't ever had vocal training -- she learned to sing in churches as a child. Her charm is probably partly because of where she is from but also because of who she is -- just a naturally bubbly person. I don't know if Willadene wears wigs or not. She doesn't have a sister named Nikita. There's no listing in the phone directory for the Wishy Washy Laundromat, so it probably isn't there any longer. Dolly discontinued her fan club several years ago partly because some fans complained and partly because she said she felt guilty taking their money for her charitable projects (which fan club dues supported) because they liked her instead of liking the projects themselves. If anyone would like to send in a look-a-like photo, they're allowed for posting on the site's "Fan Antics" page here, where they may also submit photos of themselves with Dolly or their collection of her memorabilia. And, damn yeah, Dolly cusses! Quite often if you read an interview with a publication slightly left-of-center, such as Rolling Stone, you'll find one or two instances of "shit" or "hell" in there :) Whew! That was a lot! Note: Another reader wrote in to clarify a couple of these answers -- Nikita was a singer who had performed at Dollywood and was in Honey Creek with Randy and Rachael, and the coat in Dolly's museum is not the actual coat from Dolly's childhood (which has long been lost) but a replica that her mother made a few decades ago. Thanks, Greg!

Nov. 30, 2004
I don't understand why people are still complaining about Lip sinking, it's old news, and people are still going to the concerts knowing this, then some of them have the gaul to complain?? This totally has me baffled. I read have read that Dolly is worth around 300 million. So signing cds at Walmart is clearly not for the money. Dolly hasn't let anyone down, she has been honest and told her fans that part of her concerts were prerecorded. If you don't like it, then don't go!
Deborah
Perth, Australia
Thanks, Deborah, for sharing your thoughts.

Nov. 30, 2004
Is there anyway you can sue the tabloid? You being the person that is running this site? And if any of you from that tabloid OR any other tabloid for that matter are reading this, like one of Dolly's songs says GO TO HELL!!!!!!!!!!
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
Well, I do have legal counsel investigating the matter, and while it is likely that copyright infringement occurred, I expect it would be a very lengthy (and expensive) court battle that I really don't want to get into right now, but I'll wait for my attorney's recommendation.

Nov. 30, 2004
I have always been a great fan of Dolly's I have been looking for a movie for our local public library. since we are a small library I can't seem to find any in our price range. If there is anyone out there can help me just let me know
Carol
Salyersville, Ky.
It depends which movie you're interested in purchasing for your library. Many, such as Smoky Mountain Christmas, are long out-of-print and thus available only for fairly expensive prices. It also depends on whether you want DVD or VHS (for most recent releases, VHS copies are more expensive). Most of her DVDs that are still available (such as Steel Magnolias, Straight Talk, The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas, and 9 To 5) are for sale at most movie stores and online from places like Amazon.com for $10-$15 each. If you're looking for something that's out of print, you might try Amazon's marketplace, where individuals and stores sell through Amazon, or look on eBay.

Nov. 29, 2004
Kind of a strange question, but I have been looking on Ebay for some "Dolly" Dolls. I dont know if they were Dolly or not really. Someone would take a Barbie size doll and make them into "Dolly coat of many colors", I think there were two or three others. Would you happen to know who that was or if who ever made the dolls PLEASE email me. Dont know if anyone can really help on that one but dont hurt to try. :) Thanks
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
Official Dolly dolls were produced by Goldberger starting in 1976 (although you may see some refer to them as by EG, since that was the abbreviation for the manufacturer which appeared on the front of the box). They were Barbie-sized and didn't bear a very good resemblance to her, but they were authorized by her. The first one had a red jumpsuit, but there was also a cowgirl one and you could buy the "Coat Of Many Colors" costume as well, in addition to a couple other styles. An easy way to identify them is by the beauty mark beneath her lip and blue eye shadow, two characteristics that didn't appear on Barbies at the time. There were some larger dolls produced by the same company a few years later (including an 18-inch model in a red vinyl outfit and one on a music stand in a red antebellum-style dress), and in 1996 they issued a new series of Dolly dolls that looked a lot more like her and were available in several different outfits and hairstyles, including her "Something Special" and "Heartsongs" outfits, a white dress, a silver dress, and a polka-dot skirt. Note: The writer wrote back to clarify that these were not the official Dolly dolls but ones that a fan had made and was selling on eBay. Unfortunately, I do not know who that person was.

Nov. 29, 2004
Are Dolly's boobs fake or real?????
Stephanie
High Ridge, Mo.
While they certainly were "real" at one point, Dolly conceded in two different interviews a couple of years ago that when she lost a considerable amount of weight around 1985-1986, she also lost a good amount of her upstairs heft, if you will, so she did have implants put in at that time.

Nov. 26, 2004
Hello. Regarding the photographs for the St Louis . Mo concert. It says there are 9 galleries. I can only find six galleries when viewing your web site. Is there a discrepancy or is it my computor ?
Keith Hunter
Liverpool, England
Yes, the problem is most likely in your computer's Internet settings. The computer probably has the version of the page from Tuesday night stored in its memory, or cache, so it pulled that page from its memory instead of loading the version that was posted on Wednesday night. This function of Web browsers was created for people with dial-up Internet connections, which are much slower than DSL or cable modems. To keep computers from having to wait to load all text and images on a page, most browsers are set by defaults to save the page from the last time you visited it and then call up that version the next time you're there, if the return visit is fairly soon thereafter if the computer doesn't think the page has been updated since. This makes the page load much more quickly than it it were calling up the current version each time. By emptying the cache (this command is found under Internet Options for Mircosoft's Internet Explorer), hitting "refresh" or "reload," or setting your Internet Options to always load the newest version of a page, this problem should be able to be avoided.

Nov. 25, 2004
Hey Duane! I have been anxiously waiting to get some free time to tell you all about Dolly's concert in State College, PA this past Sunday. I had made Dolly a picture of her with her parents and framed it to bring it with me in hopes Dolly would somehow get it. Little did I know that I would be the one to actually deliver it myself!!! They wisked us off back stage and led us down the hall and told us we would have to hurry because she had just arrived and needed to get ready for the show. My heart was pounding so hard and I was crying through my huge smile! I noticed a gal whom I recognized as Judy Ogle and thought, wow, I know her! And then it happened...that one brief moment when I felt like I had run into a brick wall, my breath left me for a second and all i saw was Dolly...the one who was so larger than life, so tiny standing in the same room with me. She was meeting and greeting the press and such and I was met by a man whom I assume was her manager who told me right where to stand. I fumbled to get my camera and it seemed like time was going so slow and so fast all at the same time. Then she was standing right next to me and I couldn't stop looking at her. She was so beautiful. She was so nice. She was everything I had ever dreamed she would be and more. She smiled and laughed with me and hugged me three times and signed my ticket and backstage pass and told me I had great questions for her and how I thought to ask them. I was on cloud nine the whole time. I still am three days later! The show was absolutely awesome! She rocked the house!!! Everyone loved her. I will email you my pictures from the show and meeting a little later on. To Dolly: Thank you for making my dream come true of meeting you. You are such a special lady and thanks for not thinking I was a lunatic for my off the wall questions. You are amazing and the absolute best!!!
Jennifer Bailey
Rochester, N.Y.
What a sweet story, Jennifer! Thank you so much for sharing it with Dolly's other fans! See Jennifer's photos in the tour galleries here.

Nov. 25, 2004
hello, i was wondering if you know if thay have plans to put this dolly tour on dvd? i was not able to go when she was here in michigan, and this one sounds better then the live and well that we just got on dvd. it would be really nice to have both of them on dvd. thanks.
Bobbi Emery
Lansing, Mich.
No, Bobbi, Dolly has made no indications that she plans to release this concert on DVD, but it would be a real treat, wouldn't it!

Nov. 25, 2004
Manny is SOOOOO right. The only other place I have herd anything about Dolly coming to town is a club I go to called Oasis in Upland CA, and thats only because DJ West is a hudge fan of hers. And I think you even know of him he plugs you site all the time when he talks about her. Well, thats all for now. Hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving.
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
Thanks for your letter, Brian. Of course, I agree :) And yes, I do know DJ Wes, and I've been working with him by providing some photos that are likely to be used in a couple of LA-area magazines to promote the show, so hopefully that will help stir some additional interest there.

Nov. 24, 2004
Hi Duane, Another question for you. I have noticed that Dolly's upcoming show at HP Pavilion in San Jose (which I will be attending) has gotten virtually no publicity whatsoever locally. Not a mention or ad has run in any of our local papers which include SF Chronicle and San Jose Mercury. The show is not selling at a fast rate of speed because, unless you are checking great sites like yours on the net, you'd have no way of knowing the show was even happening. Alot of people i have talked to had no idea she was even coming. Yet in the paper there have been ads running for Beete Midler, Sarah Brightman and Cher for weeks. What's going on? Is there a way to contact the publicity agents? Because it doesn't seem like thay are doing such a hot job in certain areas. Have you or your readers noticed this in other cities as well? Thanks as always for your time.
Manny
Burlingame, Calif.
Thanks, Manny. Tour promotion is being handled by KSA Publicity out of New York, the same folks who've handled tours for Bette, Wynonna and others. However, readers from many cities on the tour have commented to me about the lack of advertising and promotion for the concerts in their cities. My own market, three hours from the Mississippi Gulf Coast where she played a casino show near the tour's start, is heavily advertised to for shows at those casinos, but there wasn't a single ad for the show in any media here. In fact, its only mentions we saw were a one-line listing in the daily newspaper's weekly casino concert schedule and a brief story they printed the day before the show. A handful of cities on the tour seem to have many newspapers, television stations and radio stations interested in the show and plugging it, but most cities have seen what appears to be an almost news blackout on Dolly, unfortunately, which I believe has translated to slow ticket sales in those cities.

Nov. 23, 2004
Hi, WOW i just saw Dolly saturday in Reading Pa. for the first time! She definately left a long lastin impression on me and cannot wait to her her again. The evening went by way to fast. I can honestly say i did not see her lip synch one song and i was pretty close. I also got to meets the grascals because they were stayin at the same hotel as me and each one of them except one cause i didnt see him took a pic, w/me and signed the tour poster. Dolly's bus was also parked outside, I couldnt believe it, cause i went outside a couple times that night and in the mornin and saw lights on in the bus, it was just awesome to think of how close i was to Dolly, i was literally standin right next to it! Im bein optimistic and thinkin she did see me out there. However let me say this i was not stalkin her, lol. Sry that was a long letter.
Jen
Maryland
No problem on the letter's length. I'm glad you had a wonderful experience and got to at least get close to Dolly's bus. Maybe she did see you :)

Nov. 23, 2004
Lastnights show at State College was AWESOME! Dolly looked wonderful and we couldn't take our eyes off her! My husband and I also took along with us my parents and my daughter and her boyfriend. We loved the show! Along with her usual jokes Dolly made a comment about taking out the first couple of rows and pulling a Janet Jackson on us which everyone thought was halarious. Every song brought the house down screaming and clapping, it was great! We were in the 3rd rown but seemed close enough to touch her, it was awesome at the end of Hello God when she waved right at us! It would be great if when the tours over she would bring it out on DVD I'd sure buy it! Thank you Dolly and the Grascals for a wonderful night! If I could afford it I'd go to every show! Unfortunately we forgot our camera, so if anyone has even one picture to share it would be great!
Betty Myers
Doylesburg, Penn.
Thanks for sharing your experience, Betty. Glad you had a great time!

Nov. 23, 2004
I loved the concert come to bryn mawr and do one but the one thing you left out is all movie songs.
Fritz Miniutti
Bryn Mawr, Penn.
Unfortunately, she can't do all of the songs everyone would like to hear, or the concert would go on for four or five hours (which fans would love, but that's too long for any performer to even attempt). She does include "movie songs" like "9 To 5" and "I Will Always Love You" on this tour, so that's two out of her four theatrical releases which included music.

Nov. 23, 2004
Duane; Last night I pulled out Dolly's old 1979 LP "Great Balls of Fire" and was completely blown away by the album. I hadn't listened to it in nearly 10 years and was really impressed by the songs and her vocals on it. Could you tell me a bit about "Sandy's Song"? The writing credit says Dolly wrote it but the melody sure sounds familiar as if I've heard it somewhere before. I think that song by Dolly is by far one of the best in her whole career. I only wished the album was on CD.
Terry Richard
Minto, N.B., Canada
Thanks. It certainly is a great song. She wrote it in honor of her fans, as I understand it, and named it in honor of then-manager Sandy Gallin. Dolly has recycled several of her own melodies (or, sometimes, parts of a melody) on different songs over the years, and I think that one was later used for another composition of hers, so that may be where you had heard it again.

Nov. 22, 2004
Hi Duane. Just wanted to say that I also saw Dolly in Phila. on Thursday night, and again in Reading on Saturday night. I told my wife (who also went) that the two tickets were part of my Christmas presents. I am not a good writer, but wanted to say that I Love Dolly. As far as I am concerned, Dolly sang her heart out on EVERY song, and that is all that mattered to me. Just seeing her in person touches my heart. I read about another possible tour next year. Hope it happens. By the way, your Dolly site is the Greatest.
Mike Wargo
Lehighton, Penn.
Thanks, Mike, for writing! I'm glad you enjoyed the show! Dolly has said if this initial leg of the tour goes well, she may extend it into 2005, but no decision on that has been announced yet.

Nov. 22, 2004
I just saw Dolly for the second time on this tour. She rocked the house and wanted everyone to know that she does an excellent job on the couple songs she lip synched. I saw her in Norfolk, VA and than again in Pennsylvania on Nov. 18. The show totally changed and she didn't lip-synch the same songs at either show. She isn't as bad as some of the newer artist, like Beyonce Knowels, who lip sang the entire song and made it very noticeable. I have been listening to Dolly "The Queen of all Queens" since I was about 2 or 3 and now am 20. She rocks over top of all the queens in the music business. While talking to people at the Philly show they where kind but one guy asked why I was there because I don't like country music a lot... I prefer Lil' Kim, Missy Elliott, Tina Turner and Cher. I replied because she is the queen. I don't think it should matter what kind of music I like if I love an artist, like DOLLY, I should be allowed to go see them in concert. And one last note about Kenny Chesney why waste the time I went to see him in VA because of Uncle Kracker but totally missed Uncle Kracker. Kenny Chesney just should wish to be a fly on Mrs. Parton's shoe because he ain't worth the money or time. I spent less money for Dolly and had rocking seats and had seats almost to the lawn and paid almost 1.5 times more. He was a waste just like every other country man singer they are BORING in concert give me some action.
Jon
Norfolk, Va.
Thanks, Jon, for sharing your thoughts!

Nov. 22, 2004
Hi Duane, I just got home from seeing Dolly in Reading. WOW, WOW, WOW, what a performance!!! I cannot believe how fast the evening went. No Kenny doll though. I would have liked to seen that. She said she could tell she had a party crowd tonight. A large mix of people and not an empty seat in the place. She called attention to a drag queen about five or six rows back in the center section and asked "are you a boy or a girl" The crowd loved it. She did Rocky Top and Thank God I'm a country girl. Also, a fan somehow got down to the stage and handed Dolly a pen and something to sign (it looked like one of the tour posters, but I couldn't be sure). Dolly was kind enough to sign it for the lady. See did a little "ham bone" ditty tonight slapping her leg and singing. Rather clever and entertaining. Didn't see it mentioned before so I thought I would tell you about it. I just love Blue Smoke as did everybody in attendance. Walking back to the parking garage we were passed by her tour bus. I thought that was really cool. I am still in awe. Dolly is the greatest and I cannot wait for the new CD and a 2005 tour. I am there. P.S. I could not notice any parts being "canned". She was very interactive and the crowd very responsive to her. I took two rolls of film. Not sure how the pics will turn out...but if they are any good I will make sure you get them for posting. Just had to give you my comments. Oh, almost forgot....the tour book is awesome!!!
Lemar Sheaffer
New Cumberland, Penn.
Thanks so much for your info on the show. I'm always very glad to hear from others at the concerts on this tour so we can all find out what happened! And I appreciate the offer on the concert shots. I hope they turn out!

Nov. 22, 2004
I was hopeing this site can help me. Back in, I belive it was 1997 Christmas special, Dolly sang a song at the end of her TV show...about a phoenix rising from the ashes..or the words ...like a phoenix rising. I have been trying forever to find the name of the song. Can anyone help me? As you can see I have taken the phoenix name (changed it to Greek spelling) and used it..as my email.... I would just love to know what that song was..it was beautiful! Thanks soo much for your help!!!
Nancy Cave
Tampa, Fla.
The song, which I agree is gorgeous, was "Unlikely Angel," from the made-for-TV holiday movie of the same name (released a couple of years ago on DVD and video -- available here, and repeating on television this year on The Hallmark Channel on Dec. 4). While Dolly wrote the song for the film (using a melody she had already composed for a song titled "More Than I Can Say" for her CD Rainbow a decade earlier). Unfortunately, she's never recorded the "Unlikely Angel" version for an album, so the song itself is not available for purchase anywhere on its own. The song begins: "Like a phoenix from the ash and dirt, I rose up from the pain and hurt. When I was my very worst, I found you," and continues to call this person who loves her and brought her from sadness to happiness her "unlikely angel."

Nov. 22, 2004
Hi Duane, I was looking at the pics from Dolly's latest tour, and boy does she look great! I will be seeing Dolly on Dec 12th in Sacramento and I cannot wait!! I will take photos and send them to you. I do have a couple of questions. What kind of items are they selling at the concert and for how much? Also, if I see a pic I really like on your website and want to make a tshirt with that photo, how do I go about that, considering copyrights, etc.? Dolly is the best always!! :)
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
I know you'll love the show -- and I appreciate if you get some good shots your sending them along next month to share with the site's other readers! Several people have written in asking about what items are for sale at the shows. A list (to the best of my recollection from the concert I attended toward the tour's start back in October) was posted in answer to a letter dated Nov. 15, so if you scroll down you can read that list. As for the photos, you just have to ask the copyright holder for permission to use the photo for a shirt if you want to do it legally -- if you wanted to do it illegally, I guess you just wouldn't have asked :) If the photo is one I've taken, I can decide whether or not to grant permission for you to do it (and if you promise just to make one for yourself or three or four for you and some friends, promise not to sell them, and will send me one, I'd probably let you do it). If the photo was taken by someone else, you'd need to get that photographer's permission to do it. Also, you'd probably need to be sent a high-resolution version of the photo, because I don't think the sized images posted on the site would transfer to a t-shirt unless you made the images really, really small.

Nov. 22, 2004
dollys show last night in wilkes-barre was great.i could tell the lip synching during 1 song when she started talking and the music still played but the rest i could not tell.i was on first row right side and her micophone covered her mouth mostly from my seat.this was the 1st time i saw dolly do a production type show ,it would be nice if it was available on dvd in the future.i think the highlight was little sparrow and she did the full length version of i will always love you.my tennessee mountain home was missing and islands in the stream.also,the audience was only about 4,000 i think lack of publicity was responseable .i want to thank you for the updates and info you have on your site otherwise i would not have knew about dollys tour.dolly was very nice and gracious last night and she appreciates her long time fans.she hasn't changed all these years. ps do you have any news or an update on rachel?thanks
Cindy
Pennsylvania
Thanks, Cindy. Glad you enjoyed the show! As for Rachel, I haven't heard of her doing anything musically recently (although she did perform at Dolly's holiday concert at Dollywood three years ago), but I am told that she and Richard Dennison (who is still in Dolly's band) divorced maybe three or four years ago and she re-married soon thereafter. They have one daughter, Hannah, who has performed as a singer at Dollywood.

Nov. 22, 2004
I've been a fan of Dolly Parton for at least 20 years. Living in England I've never had the chance to see her in concert. Could you possibly tell me if she is coming to England in the near future if so any tour dates so I can be first in the queue. Many Thanks
Louise Williams
Telford
Shropshire, England
While there have been some reports that Dolly is considering some European concerts (specifically in England) in early 2005, nothing has been finalized and nothing official has been announced on those. As soon as some information is available, you can rest assured it will be posted on the Dollymania news page.

Nov. 20, 2004
I was able to see Dolly in philadelphia last night and what an incredible experience. Dolly was in true form and her closing song, "Hello God", was truly envigorating. Her version of "Imagine" was fantastic. I am just very saddened that she does not get the air play on country radio for her new material. Stations like 92.5wxtu in philly were sure to be there, but do they play her new material on the air...NO! Shame on you XTU!!! I have followed her career for 30 years,and have plenty of memorabilia to show and will continue to be a follower.
Dave Tirella
Atlantic City, N.J.
Yes, it's a shame that radio won't play her (or several other legends) any longer. Basically, on today's country airwaves, if you're over 50, you have to duet with someone at least young enough to be your child to get any time on the air, unless it's one of those stations that plays "the latest and the greatest," which means you'll occasionally hear a song from 20 or 30 years ago by those artists.

Nov. 20, 2004
Just wanted to know if any of you have any ideas of how to get Dolly back on the radio. You would think if I just called up and asked them to play her that they would. Well your wrong, I have called both country stations here in So Cali KZLA and KFRG and nothing really from them. KFRG will play her sometimes like on there Sunday night show of older country music. But when I called and asked KZLA to play her they said "Oh we dont play her anymore, but if we can fit her in what would you like to hear?" So I asked for Hello God, I waited and listened for 4 hours and NO Dolly. So if anyone has any ideas email me and let me know. One thing I dont understand with KZLA, they wont play her but they show up at her CD signing and her concerts. I feel like im just rambling on but I eve called KZLA to see about some code for pre sale tikets, the the guy that picked up toldme they were goin to be giving away tickets starting the following Monday, so I listened and nothing so I called on the following Tuesday and a girl answered and said that they were never giving away tickets and I didnt know what I was talking about. So that kinda made me mad. I got my tickets so I guess it really dont matter LOL OK Im done.
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
See letter above for a similar complaint. Unfortunately, the vast majority of radio stations are owned by mega-corporations with their eye on the bottom line instead of their ear on the music. Their play lists are not determined by local DJs, as they were not too many years ago. Instead, they come as directives from corporate headquarters. As with most entertainment, they aim at that elusive young adult key demographic, which they mistakenly believe doesn't want to hear from legends. The trend isn't confined to country, either. Then those that aren't part of the mega-corporations are still owned by smaller, profit-driven corporate entities which have their own versions of the play list restriction -- if it's not on the top 40 of the chart (be it pop, R&B, country, whatever genre the station specializes in), it doesn't get on the air. And who controls the charts? The mega-corporations that own most of the stations and refuse to play older artists. So the cycle repeats itself, and there isn't much you can do. If enough fans were to request her songs regularly, perhaps a few stations would bend the rules and play them, but I'm afraid most will not, regardless of what fans do. I mean, I hear Dolly more often on public radio where I live than any of our country stations (thankfully, our public radio network has several roots music and bluegrass programs on the weekends). Music fan dissatisfaction with commercial radio because of these reasons is one major factor in why so many serious music lovers have switched to satellite radio, which provides a more diverse song selection since it depends on subscriptions rather than ad sales for its revenue.

Nov. 19, 2004
hey there!! this site is THE BEST!! thank you. i saw dolly in concert at dollywood sept.26th--a 8 hour drive , then on nov 4th in raleigh nc..a 2 hour drive then on nov 14th in fairfax va a 3.5 hour drive!! i must say she did great!! each concert i have been on th first or 2nd row so yes i did reconize she did some lip syching(never ever noticed that at dollywood)but it didn't take away from the show!!she was still the best and just think about it..wouldn't it be hard lip syching too??? she really was THE BEST and she couldn't have done it any better!! anyway i have been seeing DOLLY over the past 8 years at dollywood. i want my picture taken with her but i guess thats about immpossible. do you know if she will show up any at dollywood before the christmas season is over?? Thanks
Jennfier
Roanoke Rapids, N.C.
Thanks, Jennifer, for your letter. You certainly are a devoted fan, and I'm so glad you enjoyed the shows!

Nov. 19, 2004
Just wanted to know if there is still talk about another tribute CD for Dolly. When Just Because Im A Woman came out they were talking about an ALL male tribute CD to follow the next year or so. Just wanted to know if they were still gonna do it. Thanks
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
Nothing has been said in a year or more about a follow-up tribute. There were some initial rumblings about an all-male version, a second all-female version, or a mixed-gender one, but nothing has come of it yet.

Nov. 18, 2004
Love the site. First thing I do when I get to work is get my Sprite, get my email, and go to Dollymania. Starts my day off right. I think it's a darn shame that radio is not playing our gal. She still has a great voice and more charisma than any female vocalists out there. No one close other than Shania. I am a life long fan, and have every single 45, and album and CD she has made.
Steve Overton
Asheboro, N.C.
Thanks so much for your letter and your kind words. I appreciate them! And I, too, wish that they'd put Dolly on the radio again. Call and request her from your local stations!

Nov. 18, 2004
Duane, I have tickets to see Dolly in Reading, PA this Saturday and cannot wait!! I am very pleased to see cameras have been allowed. I am looking forward to getting some great shots. I am in the center section 13 rows back. I have a Minolta camera with 135 zoom. I am thinking 800 speed film and no flash. What do you think? I know this is kind of a weird question.....but I want to make sure and get the best pictures possible. I will send you another email after the concert Saturday night with my thoughts/comments. Later,
Lemar
New Cumberland, Pa.
I'd be sure to call the venue before bringing your camera to be sure they allow them. Most venues on the tour have allowed audience members to bring cameras in with restrictions (only small film cameras without a flash or small digital cameras without using a flash, and no professional zoom lenses), but other venues have had rules prohibiting them completely. And your question isn't that weird :) Shooting without a flash on 800 speed film should work because stage lights are very bright. However, you will likely need shoot at a fairly wide aperature and use a slower shutter speed (usually somewhere between 1/90 and 1/180, depending on the amount of light on stage). I'd recommend changing your settings some throughout the night to ensure you'll get some good shots. And if you haven't tried digital yet, I've found they are usually better than film at shooting in conditions such as those at concerts than regular film cameras. All of my images from her Biloxi concert (available in eight galleries here) were taken with Fujifilm's S5000 digital.

Nov. 18, 2004
Duane~ I submitted a letter to you for publishing after the show in Winston-Salem, NC, which you did publish (and I thank you!). However, I received a nastygram from a Dolly fan(?) who strongly disagreed with my commentary praising Dolly's performance as well as my opinions regarding the lip-synching issue. When I submitted my commentary to you, I forgot to check the little anonymity box that does not make my email address accessible. While you were so kind to print my letter, I really don't want anymore yucky mail from people who disagree with my opinions. Would it be possible for you to change that on my name, so that others could not email me? Thanks a million. You website is fantastic, and I appreciate the way you very professionally handle your writers-in. Thanks.
Aimee Young
Thomasville, N.C.
Thanks for alerting me to your problem. I'm sorry someone out there sent you a not-so-polite response. Your e-mail address has been removed from your original letter. And just so you don't feel bad, you're not the first person who neglected to check the box to keep their e-mail anonymous :)

Nov. 17, 2004
I attended Dolly's Nov. 14th show in Fairfax, Virginia. Profound and amazing are the two words that come to mind in describing her performance. She made you feel as if there were no audience behind you - as if she were playing for a very intimate setting. Her witty banter was fun and enjoyed by all. Most amazing was her voice. That little woman sings her heart out and the audience ate it up. Her rendition of "Little Sparrow" was breathtaking and her piano version of "The Grass Is Blue" shows her true versitility. I have been a fan of Dolly's for 33 of my 36 years and greatly appreciate her talent and love of what she does.
Bridget
Woodbridge, Va.
Thanks so much, Bridget, for sharing your experience.

Nov. 17, 2004
I would like to know if any of your readers would beable to help me with a price list of all the mechandise at the Hello Im Dolly tour. I would like to know so I know how much money I should take/set aside. Im gonna want a shirt, program, key chains, pictures, stuffed animals (if there are any this time) and so on. Thank you very much for the help and if any of you are going to the Anehim show I will be in the 3rd row see you there.
Brian Wolf
Corona, Calif.
I know you'll have a wonderful time at the show, Brian. And, actually, another reader wrote in with the same question last night, so there is a list of items and several prices available on this page already. For the items you mentioned (one regular tour shirt, a program, a key chain, a couple of photos, and a stuffed animal), the total would run around $100 or so.

Nov. 17, 2004
I surprised my daughter on Saturday with tickets for the Mohegan Sun show. My daughter is going to be 12 at the end of this month and has been a Dolly fan since she was around 4. We enjoyed the show very much. Dolly was very entertaining and from where we were sitting we could not tell that she was lip-sinching all though it is disappointing to think that she doses not sing live after all that is what you pay to hear. I wrote to you the other day and asked about bringing a camera. The answer was yes. Here are a couple of pictures that I took I hope you can use them.
Brenda
Shelton, Conn.
Thanks, Brenda. Your photos have been added to the Tour galleries here. I'm glad you enjoyed the show. And while there are some pre-recorded vocals, not all of the concert is "canned."

Nov. 16, 2004
The country station around here always does a 4:30 future file in the afternoon. It's when they play new country songs out by the artist. Now heres my question did Dolly put out a new Christmas song? The reason i ask is because my sister told me they played her on the 4:30 future file and it was a Christmas song, and she said it was definately her. I was just wondering if you would know any more about that? Thanks! Keep up the great work!
Jen
Maryland
Yes, Dolly has recorded a new Christmas song. She did a bluegrass arrangement of "Christmas Time's A Comin'" for the various artist holiday album Christmas Grass Vol. 2: A Celebration of Christmas, Bluegrass Style, which came out about a month ago. The CD, which also features cuts by Rhonda Vincent, The Larkins and Sonya Isaacs, among others, was released with very little fanfare. In fact, it took a couple of weeks after it was released for me to get a copy and confirm Dolly was, in fact, on it so it could be reported on the site's news page. So, unless they chose a song from one of her earlier Christmas albums, that's most likely the track they played.

Nov. 15, 2004
Hey Duane...looking forward to finally seeing the show in Austin on Dec. 2...am wondering if you remember from your show the t-shirts and stuff. How much approximately do you remember them being? I'm trying to get an idea of how much money to bring. I heard the tour photo book is 30 bucks. Also, I heard there might be "hoodies?" Did you see any hooded sweat shirts? Thanks, dude!
Lory
Texas
The tour features a lot of great merchandise. I cannot honestly say whether or not there were hooded sweatshirts -- when I saw it, there were sweatshirts, but they were hung in such a way that I couldn't tell whether they had a hood or not. I think this was the most expensive item at the table, at about $65. Regular tour shirts (white with Dolly in a patriotic background or black with Dolly against an modern art butterfly, both with the list of cities on the back) were $30 each. Additional shirts (such as the Dolly signature baby-doll tees) were also available for around $30 and $40 each as well, if memory serves correctly. The tour books were $30 each. Cute little stuffed bunnies with a "Dolly 2004" shirt were $20 each. They also had autographed photos of Dolly with The Grascals for $5 each, key chains that I think were $5 each, and I think Dolly license plates were about $10 each. There were also some recent Dolly photos, that I think were $5 or so, and several other items as well. I should have taken a photo to record them all, because you're about the 20th or 30th person to e-mail that question. :)

Nov. 16, 2004
I was at the Fairfax, VA show last night and it was AWESOME!!!! I have seen Dolly over the years in concerts but this was the BEST I have ever seen her! She was gorgeous, funny and at the top of her game!!! If there was Lip-syncing I did not notice and I was Third row center!!! She was amazing and I cannot wait to see her again Thursday in Philly! She did not perform When Johnny Comes Marching Home, Welcome Home or the Kenny bit, but she did the rest of the list. Little Sparrow was worth the price of the ticket alone!!!! I did notice some people got to go backstage for a meet and greet and was wondering how they get arranged. I am taking my 7 year old neice who would absolutly love to meet Dolly. Do you know how these are arranged?
Deanne
Harbeson, Del.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the concert. It is an awesome show! Unfortunately, the backstage meet-and-greets are very limited, usually only a handful of people. Therefore, there is very difficult to get an invitation. Unless you're friends and family of the crew or musicians, a higher-up at the venue, radio station contest winners (in some cities) or charity auction winner (in some cities), you pretty much can't get backstage to meet Dolly.

Nov. 16, 2004
Hey Duane, I was just wondering if you knew who was promoting Dolly's tour this year, specifically her Penn State show? Does it vary from city to city? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!
Jennifer
Rochester, N.Y.
As was announced in the press release for the tour (still available in its entirety at a few places online), the tour is being promoted through KSA Publicity out of New York City.

Nov. 15, 2004
I'm trying to find out if the music from Dolly's t.v. movie, "Smokey Mountain Christmas" is available on cd or in the form of chords/tabs. I'm specifically trying to find "I'd Like to Spend Christmas With Santa" and "When You Look in the Mirror." Can you help? Thanks.
Karen
Milton, Vt.
No, unfortunately, Karen, Dolly has never recorded any of the songs from the film, so they've never been available on CD or in any format other than the film itself.

Nov. 15, 2004
Ok, I have loved Dolly for as long as I can remember. Her voice and her spirit have always touched me. I don't know what it is about her spirit that calms me when I'm stressed or cheers me up when I'm down, but her voice and presence definately has an effect on me. Now, with that said, I went to her concert at the XCEL Energy Center in St. Paul on Friday, October 29th, and then drove down to Omaha, Nebraska on Saturday night for the concert at the Qwest Center. Low and behold at the start of the concert on Saturday night, she complimented the audience on what a good looking bunch they were --- compared to the UGLY bunch she had last night up in St. Paul!!! It was a bit amusing, but come on, I just drove 7 hours to see her concert after having just seen it in St.Paul -- and then for her to call us UGLY!!! Dolly....come on!!! I did take some good pictures of Dolly both nights and I will most certainly hold those dear to me. The last time I saw her in concert was about 4 years ago for Halos and Horns and I had to drive to St. Louis from Minneaplis to see her -- a 9 hour drive. That's enough rambling on and on from me. Just wanted Dolly to know that the Ugly people up in St. Paul really do love her and would love for her to return some day.
Michelle Swenson
Minneapolis, Minn.
Thanks for your letter, Michelle, but just so you know, Dolly wasn't literally calling the St. Paul audience ugly -- that's just a joke she tells at many of her concerts, where she'll say that the audience is filled with such good looking people, adding "Lord, you should've seen the ugly ones we had last night!" She even used the joke on her Live And Well DVD and CD, telling the Dollywood crowd that you should've seen the ugly audience at the Dollywood concert the night before. It's just a joke -- she doesn't ever mean it seriously.

Nov. 15, 2004
Hi Duane, Just wanted to write in and let you know about the Atlantic City show on Friday the 12th. Dolly was in fine form. She did her usual set list with the exception of "Go to Hell" and much to my dismay "Smoky Mountain Memories." She did however do the full version of "My Tennessee Mountain Home." She sounded as wonderful as ever. The only song I could noticibly tell her lip syching on was "Thank God I'm a Country Girl." But other than that either it wasn't noticeable to me (and I was at the front center table) or she just wasn't. She switced the set list around a bit doing "Little Sparrow" before the "Tennessee Mountain Home" segment and then finished it off with "Thank God I'm a Country Girl" before her gorgeous encore of "Hello God." And once again thanks for your dedication in providing us fans with such up to date Dolly news. If it weren't for you and your wonderful website, many of us wouldn't have even known about the tour. Thanks again.
Anthony
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Thanks so much for your recap of the show, and for your kind words, Anthony!

Nov. 15, 2004
I have a question about Dolly's music. Do you know if BMG Heritage has any plans to re-issue more of Dolly's long out-of-print albums back onto CD anytime soon. I've tried to contact them through their website but all of my e-mails have been returned to me as undeliverable. I was able to see Dolly's concert in Winston-Salem, NC last Sunday and it made me wish that more of her catalog was available. I know there have been many "converts" who after being forced to attend a concert with a relative or friend have left the shows with a new respect and love for Dolly. Sadly, the only thing for them to pick up besides her recent bluegrass albums are countless compilations with the same old songs on them. Will classics like "All I Can Do", "Burlap and Satin", "New Harvest...First Gathering", "My Tennessee Mountain Home" and others EVER see a US release?
Scott
Blacksburg, Va.
BMG has not released information on any plans to re-issue any Dolly albums in the near future. Label officials have said in the past that they were interested in repackaging more of her hits into compilations (as if there weren't a gazillion of those out already) after seeing the amazing success of some of their recent Elvis Presley compilations, but nothing has been said about re-issuing complete albums. I wish they would, however, as the majority of her RCA catalogue has been out of print for decades, and many fans long to have them re-mastered onto CD (until then, there is a thriving fan black-market of pirated CD copies of her earlier albums). My hope is that with BMG's merger with Sony, which has re-issued several of her Columbia CDs over the years, we might see more re-issues on the way, although nothing has been said about that by company officials.

Nov. 15, 2004
Hi Duane, I just returned from Dolly's concert at the Mohegan Sun Casino, and unfortunately, I was quite disappointed. As a minor note, the audience was much older, calmer, and far less gay than I had hoped to find at a Dolly show. I would have appreciated more diversity. Also, as one might have expected, the show was limited to 90 minutes due to the Casino's policy, but the greatest disappointment was the outrageous amount of pre-recorded vocals I believe were used by Dolly. It was quite apparent that she was singing live on Little Sparrow, but throughout the remainder of the show, the difference in sound quality from that beautiful live performance and the revealing close-ups on the video screen made me believe that more was lip-synched than I would have ever imagined.
      After paying over $60.00 and traveling 100 miles, I felt like I had been taken. I have attended countless concerts and live performances, including Dolly's 2002 performance in Lowell, MA, and this was the first time I ever felt like the performer(s) didn't hold up their end of the bargain...to perform "live in concert" as they say. Even my family members who didn't know in advance that Dolly may be lip-syncing felt that something wasn't right and soon caught on. I don't expect this from any performer, but especially not Dolly. I just wanted to express my frustration and disappointment to counter others who have said they couldn't tell, it didn't matter to them, or they'd pay anything to watch Dolly fold her laundry. I want to be a voice for those who expect what they pay for.
      Another minor issue, but one worth mentioning, was the way in which Dolly repeatedly threw around the word hippie as she chatted between and after singing Bobby McGee and Imagine. She managed to take a word with much cultural significance and which represented real people's lives and turned it into a trite slang term that seemed in a way condescending or a mockery.
      As a lover of theatre and music of all kinds, all I wanted was to hear Dolly "live" once more. I never thought that would be too much to expect when I discovered she was going on tour. Thank you Duane for giving me a voice here.
Greg
Chelmsford, Mass.
I'm sorry you felt that way, Greg. The vast majority of concert attendees throughout the tour haven't had a problem with the pre-recorded vocals being used, saying they either didn't notice or it didn't detract from their enjoyment of the show. While you are certainly in the minority, I appreciate your opinions.

Nov. 15, 2004
Dear dolly- on Nov. 11 I turned 61- Nov. 12, my son Michael and wife julie gave me the best birthday gift- for my new husband of 6 months and myself- tickets to your concert in Ct. at Mohegan Sun- I have always wanted to see you- even my New England daughter-in-law loved you- It was the best performance I have ever seen- even if I did have to sit in the "nose bleed" section- just wanted you to know I bought your black tee shirt with all the towns on the back- but one was missing- I know you did a performance in Grove, Oklahoma back around 2002 or so unless it was cancelled- because I was going to go and had to come to Ct. to see Grandbaby- I haqve been a fan of yours since you were with Porter Wagner- my evening was very enjoyable- just wanted you to know- even my son checked you out with his binoculars. he and I were so excied when you did "Rocky Top"
RoseMarie Herdman
Southington, Conn.
Thanks, RoseMarie, for sharing your thoughts on the show. I'm glad you enjoyed it, but as I remind others, this is not Dolly's official site (she doesn't operate one), and while I'm happy to post your comments here, I cannot guarantee that she will ever see them. As for the t-shirt question, the shirts sold on this tour only contain the listing of cities for this tour, so those in which she performed years ago would not be included. For the record, her 2002 tour did not include any Oklahoma dates, but I do believe she played Tulsa in her most recent tour prior to that, which would have been 1992.

Nov. 13, 2004
Hey Duane, I was wondering if you know waht character is stella in The Best Little Whorehoue In Texas? Thanks,
Justin Davis
Symsonia, Ky.
While not in the film version, Dolly's sister Stella has performed the lead role of Miss Mona, the same one Dolly played for the movie, in several touring productions of the Broadway musical.

Nov. 13, 2004
Hi, I was very dissapointed that the CMA blamed Dolly for what I belive they should blame on themselves. I am MORE upset at Kenny Chesney's people though. The reason is that I believe if the tables were turned Dolly would never complain about another artist. I understand the frustration that Kenny would have but it wasn't right to badmouth Dolly in public. If there is anyway you could provide a contact to Kenny's publicist that would be great. I wish all Dolly fans would write to both Kenny's people and Ed Benson at the CMA. I am sure that they believe since Dolly is an older artist they are not all that concerned of what was said about her. Anyway, thanks for letting me vent a bit.
Tom
Madison, Tenn.
You certainly are free to write and express your opinion. I agree that Dolly would never badmouth anyone else, and both Ed Benson and Holly Gleason (Kenny Chesney's publicist) should apologize for their comments, especially if reports are true that Dolly was asked to stretch to fill time immediately before she went on. I wouldn't post this if her contact information wasn't already public record (and easily discovered in a few seconds via a simple Internet search), so here is how to reach Ms. Gleason. She owns Joe's Garage, a publicity firm in Nashville. Her phone number is 615-269-3238, and her e-mail address is info@joesgarage615.com.

Nov. 13, 2004
I went to Dolly's Nov.11 Concert yesterday and it was really the best thing i have ever seen. About the whole lip-synching thing, i don't think she was, if she was, you definatly couldn't tell.Well just wanted to say it is an amazing show, she fit in so many songs and of course her usual little jokes.
Rebecca
OB, N.J.
Thanks for sharing your concert experience. It is a wonderful show!

Nov. 13, 2004
I have tickets to the 12/3 performance in Dallas. I am looking to contact the concert promoters for the possibity of backstage passes. I know were kinda old for that kinda stuff, but she's my husbands favorite songstress/guitar picker. I have surprise tickets for him, and backstage passes would just be the icing on the cake. He's 58 yrs old & has been forced to go on med disability due to an accident with a hit & run driver. A big blow to his "man-ness" & ego. He too picks guitar & sings, but he says "Nothing like she does!" I know to meet her would be a dream come true, even if only for a moment, and a passing wave or handshake. Please let me know if you have "any" information.
Tina Martin
Dallas, Texas
Thanks for your letter, Tina, and I appreciate your husband's interest in meeting Dolly. Unfortunately, I do not think I will be of any help. I cannot "get anyone in" for the meet-and-greets that she is doing at some concerts on the tour, and they have typically been for very small numbers of people (in the 15-25 person range at most dates, as I understand it). So unless you're one of those very few who are invited because you "know" someone, or unless someone who is invited to it asks your husband to come along as his or her guest, it's not likely that you could attend. Some radio stations in some cities she has visited have given away admissions to the backstage meet-and-greets, and packages for them have been auctioned for charity (including one that will soon be auctioned off for the Dallas show), but those have sold for around $2,000 each. I wish I could be more optimistic for you, but that's just the way it is.

Nov. 13, 2004
dolly I work in Etowah school system. and we have a student who is very much , a dolly fan. she is in Special Education and we would love for you to write her a letter,and send her a picture of yourself. She is a special child. when she does her work she sometimes signs her name dolly,. Because she loves you that much.Her name is terri, she has almost all of your cd's and carries your pictures that she has cut out of magazines with her. She would love to meet you very much. If you could do this it would be appericated, That you the Teachers and the paraprofessionals at Rainbow Middle School. Our Adderss is, Rainbow Middle School 454 Lumbley Rd Rainbow City , Al 35906 Please Address it to Sherie Oldham Thank You Very Much
Lori Groom
Gadsden, Ala.
You didn't leave an e-mail address for me to note this personally to you, but as I have published here before, this is an online newsmagazine dedicated to Dolly, not Dolly's personal site. Therefore I cannot guarantee that she will ever see your posting, but I'm happy to place it here for you in case she does see it.

Nov.12, 2004
Hello, I love Dolly Parton. I would just like everyone to know that Im 15 and "I Will Always Love You" Dolly Parton!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mark Cubbage
Stanley, Va.

Nov. 10, 2004
I am going to see Dolly at Mohegan Sun on Saturday. I called to ask about cameras and they told me disposable only, but it was really up to the preformer and they won't know until she arrives on Saturday how she feels about digital cameras. I don't have very good seats but I have a new digital camera that I wanted to try and bring with me do you know if Dolly allows digital cameras at her shows?
Brenda
Shelton, Conn.
If the venue doesn't have a firm rule prohibiting cameras, Dolly's tour management has generally allowed small regular cameras (usually no-flash) or small digital ones, although no professional lenses have been allowed.

Nov. 10, 2004
I attended the show in Winston-Salem with my boss and her husband, who sent in a couple of picture galleries to Dollymania. This was the first time I have ever seen Dolly live. Wow...she has made a fan out of me! I have never seen an entertainer with the enthusiasm and love of her business as Dolly has. Her voice, charisma, stage set-up and band were all more than I could have ever imagined. The experience was absolutely visceral. My husband was equally impressed. It was hard for me to believe that I was actually in the same room with such an American legend! I was so taken with Dolly's versatility and her ability to truly connect with the crowd. She was absolutely hysterical! We laughed until we nearly cried at some of her stories and her banter with the crowd. I was amazed at the many instruments Dolly played! I had no idea she was so multi-faceted! As for the lip-synching issue...during NO point in the show did I sense that Dolly was lip-synching. If she had, I still would not have felt the least bit cheated. Her performance was incredible, and left a lasting impression with my husband and me. We WILL see her again!!! I urge anyone who has never seen Dolly live to put it on their "To Do" list! It is an experience and a memory that you'll never forget! Thank you, Dolly, for a wonderful, unforgettable time!
Aimee Young
Thomasville, N.C.
Thanks so much for your letter and for sharing your experience. I'm glad your friend got us another "Dolly convert!"

Nov. 9, 2004
We attended last night's show in Winston-Salem. My husband and I had another couple with us who had not seen her and now they are Dolly Fans as well. It was AWESOME!!! Dolly was fabulous!! She looked great and sounded even better. Her show was very entertaining and was true Dolly all around. She told her boob jokes and her other jokes. The crowd was very receptive to her and she played it the hilt. The issue of lip-sync was on my mind, but I really couldn't tell when or if it happened. The show was that good! She did "Go to Hell" which brought the house down. "Imagine" was a crowd pleaser as well. Her encore was "Hello God" - beautiful!! No Kenny puppet. The Grascals did "Viva Las Vegas" with Dolly and it was great! I would go again tonight if she was around. My advise to a true Dolly fan - Go don't miss it!!
Sissy England
Thomasville, N.C.
Thanks, Sissy, for your recap, and for your photos! View them, and other photographers' shots from throughout the tour, here.

Nov. 8, 2004
Hello, I was at Dolly's show in Norfolk, Virginia Nov. 6th of this year. "Wow" what a good show.She gave a Great Performance.She stayed on stage and sung her heart out. Dolly never once disappointed myself or the fans that were there. She is the most talented singer and song writer. I would go and see here repeatedly because I know each time I would be entertained by the best. I hope nothing but the best for her and God Bless Dolly.
Rev. Chuck Sargent
Virginia Beach, Va.
I'm glad you enjoyed the show. I absolutely loved it when I saw it last month in Biloxi!

Nov. 8, 2004
husband and I have been Dolly fans for many years. We have a lot of Dolly LPs (remember them) Also a fair few of her concerts on tape. Our most prized possession is the Dolly and Kenny Christmas special we recorded on tape in 1984. We have put it on DVD to preserve the tape. We sent a copy to some friends of ours in Canada who were delighted. We felt like Santa Claus. We are waiting patiently for Dolly to come back to the UK so we can get to see her perform live. We would also love to get out there to Dollywood in the near future too. Any new info on a UK tour would be much appreciated.
Cheryl
Plymouth, Devon, United Kingdom
Thanks for your letter, Cheryl. While nothing official has been said about plans to come to the U.K., some papers there have reported that she is considering some performances there in early 2005. Whenever anything official is announced, rest assured it will be noted on the news page.

Nov. 8, 2004
Hi: Do you know if cameras are allowed for Dolly's Winston Salem, NC show?
Billy Black
Charlotte, N.C.
No, I don't know the answer to that question, unfortunately. You should check with the venue directly, and they should be able to answer it for you. The rules on photography vary from place to place on the tour.

Nov. 6, 2004
Hello there! I just wanted to write in to say that I was at the Detroit show a couple of weeks ago and the show was absolutley awesome! If Dolly was lip-synching, I didn't know, I was just so mesmerized by her presence! I am like the person who wrote in that they would pay $50 to see her do her laundry! The only part that I hated was that the Fox theater would not allow cameras! I am so bummed out by this because I don't know if I will get another chance to see her again and I got so close that I would have been able to get some really good shots of her. I thought that once we got into the theater, there would be people all over the place with cameras, but no such luck! I was too afraid to try to sneak, so I was wondering if there would be any chance that I might be able to get a copy of a few of the pictures that Karen Stamper took. I see they are copyrighted and I am not interested in doing anything with them other than putting them in my scrapbook. It was such a special night for me and I would really like to have a few pictures to go along with my ticket stub on my page! The outfit she had on in those pictures Karen took was the same one she had on the night I saw her (except different shoes) but, close enough! Please let me know if there is any way possible for me to get a few of those pictures, I really would appreciate it! From one Dolly fan to another!
Marti
Monroe, Mich.
Thanks, Marti. Your message has been forwarded to Karen. I don't know if she's selling her photos or not, but if she is, I'm sure she'll contact you.

Nov. 6, 2004
Hi Duane ! I just read at the news page that Dolly would probably not perform at the CMA Awards show this year. Has that been confirmed or is it just some sort of rumour? Of course it's nice that Dolly appears, but I would have been so much more thrilled about the CMA's if she had been scheduled to sing something. And by the way, next year I think it's time that she is nominated for Entertainer of the Year herself, thinking of this year's successful tour and next year's new album, don't you agree? At least she should be nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year! Thanks for the best Dolly site on the web!
Filip
Sweden
Thanks, Filip, for your compliment. The CMAs officially announced Dolly's participation on Friday, and as of now she is not scheduled to perform. And, personally, I think Dolly should be Entertainer of the Year every year!

Nov. 5, 2004
Hello, I just thought I would drop a line. I was at the St. Louis show last weekend. It was great! I was really surprised at how good it was since I had been hearing a lot of the mixed reviews. Dolly is truly a master and I just don't know how anyone would think she isn't one of the best acts in all of music entertainment. I've been to so many concerts by stars like Madonna, Janet Jackson, etc., but Dolly is by far the best I've ever seen. She writes her music, plays a billion instruments, and can simply light up a stage with her presence. She doesn't need all the big production value in order to be effective, but I must say she pulled it off without a hitch! If anyone out there hasn't gotten a ticket to her latest tour you should! It is well worth the money. She is definitely a living legend and when she goes live she really kicks butt.
Matt O.
Bloomington, Ill.
Thanks, Matt. I loved the show myself and thought Dolly certainly kicked butt on stage, too!

Nov. 3, 2004
Hello Duane & Dolly fans! Hey I just wanted to write in a quick review of Dolly's show in Omaha this past Saturday. I'm 32 and have been a big fan since the mid-80's. I took my parents and we all had a great time!! The show was FANTASTIC. I have been lucky enough to see Dolly in concert three times before this, and I have to say this was her absolute BEST performance I have seen. The production value of this tour is great - exactly the caliber and quality that Dolly deserves. Dolly wore her blue outfit for this show and was very talkative between songs which really got the crowd pumped up. Dolly's many jokes included her old standard of how much it costs to make a person look cheap. She also explained how she wanted many costume changes, but didn't want to leave the stage, so she would change in front of everyone.and then quickly added that "this is not the Superbowl and I won't be doing one of those Janet Jackson things.or I might knock out the first few rows". I am now so excited for the release of "Blue Smoke" since it will include "I Dreamed About Elvis" - one of the show's highlights for me. What a great song! It just shows that Dolly's still got it!! She did not sing "Islands in the Stream" with the Kenny Rogers doll which I was hoping for. The only other variation I noticed from reading others' reviews was that she sang "Rocky Top" in place of "Go To Hell". The end of the concert which included "Coat of Many Colors" and "Smoky Mountain Memories" was the most touching. As she was setting up the story for COMC, she told about her little brother Larry who died at birth and how a few people in her hometown had said it was a blessing since the Parton's had so many kids anyway and didn't have any money. Dolly said that was the meanest thing anyone had ever said and she couldn't understand why. She said just because they were poor, didn't mean that her mom deserved that to happen. Dolly was holding back tears and had to pause for a few seconds before starting the song. She also spoke about her parents before "Smoky Mountain Memories" and how she had lost her dad four years ago and lost her mom less than a year ago. Dolly said that people sometimes say "well, it's sad that your folks are gone", but she said, "they're not gone, they're in my mind, they're in my heart, they're in my songs, and I think about them so many times". After "Hello God" she waved and said a few more hellos to the crowd. One young woman in the front row had been dancing and rocking out the whole night. As Dolly was walking along the stage, she pointed and said to the gal, "I know you had a good time tonight!!" If this show comes to your city, GO!! Dolly is better than ever!
Clint
Des Moines, Iowa
Thanks, Clint, for sharing your opinions. I agree -- it was an amazing show!

Nov. 3, 2004
Who is Dolly Parton voteing for?
Amie Voll
Lewisville, Texas
Well, I know for whom I'm voting, but I don't know whom Dolly chose! She is very clever in that she doesn't get into political discussions, so her ballot remains secret. She jokes that she's smart enough to know not to talk politics! When she has made comments on political issues, they're usually in a joke format and often said in a way where she's not taking one particular side. She made some jokes about President Clinton's sexual activities, and in the last presidential election, she said there wasn't much of a choice because it was between a "redneck" (Bush) and a "no-neck" (Gore).

Nov. 3, 2004
Hi Duane, I was just listening to Dolly's Great Pretender CD last night. And while most of it is rather mediocre in places I think her cover of the song The Great Pretender is so haunting and unforgettable. The arrangement is so unusual...I think it's one of her best covers. My question to you is if you know what inspired Dolly to do it that way (with just an organ and a family choir). Don't know if Dolly had mentioned anything about it maybe during interviews while promoting the album in the 80's. Thanks!
Manny
Burlingame, Calif.
I don't recall her having explained anything about that particular track (also one of my favorites from the album), but it is similar to how she breathes new life into rock songs by putting a spiritual sound to it, such as "Shine" or "Stairway To Heaven."

Nov. 2, 2004
Hello, Kindly pass on my compliments to Noelle Carpenter for the photographs from the Columbus Ohio concert(s). The photographs of Dolly are absolutely stunning.
Frank
Ottawa, Canada
Thanks, Frank. I'm sure she certainly appreciates that. They are great shots. Check out hers from Columbus, mine from Biloxi and several other readers' awesome images of our Miss Dolly on stage in her "Hello I'm Dolly" Tour here.

Nov. 1, 2004
Hi Duane... Can you please tell me if there is any information as to when the tickets for the Houston, Texas, concert will go on sale? Will any go on "pre-sale" to the fans before the general public? Thanks, take care, and keep up the great work on your website!
Dennis
Atlanta, Ga.
Thanks, Dennis. Actually, ticket information was announced over the weekend for the concert and was published in Sunday night's news update here. No word yet on whether it will be included in the pre-sales, but I would expect it to be added on Wednesday.

Nov. 1, 2004
Hi There! Love your site and visit it often. I have a question: Any chance Dolly's latest tour will come out on DVD? I hope so because it looks like I'm not going to get the chance to catch it live.
Joseph Wallace
Chicago, Ill.
Thanks, Joseph. Nothing has been said about filming the concert for DVD release. Maybe Dolly will decide to do it, perhaps when she performs it at Dollywood next year.

Oct. 30, 2004
Hi! I have a mystery song game featuring dolly parton's lyrics for the month of november. Try it out yourself first if you like, then if you think that other dolly fans would like it, feel free to post! http://www.davidj.org/tools/mysterysong.php. I would be happy to include a link to dollymania.net during the month of november if you would like.
David Johnson
Cleveland, Ohio

Oct. 29, 2004
Hey Duane, When I vote for Dolly and Norah on the People's Coice Awards Website, is there a limit on how many times I can vote? THe site lets me vote over and over but I don't know if only one of them is being counted or not... Thanks, I was just a little confused.
Michael Manning
Hendersonville, N.C.
I tried to find on their site if there were any restrictions, and there does not appear to be any limit on the number of times you may vote, so, as the old saying goes, "Vote Early, and Vote Often!" You may vote here.

Oct. 29, 2004
Hi - Just a quick note to say that I went to the Green Bay show last night. The arena was sold out, and the crowd was great. The vast majority of people there were older; aside from a few standing ovations the audience was seated for the duration of the show. I definitely preferred the crowd I saw Dolly with at the House of Blues in Vegas during the '02 tour.
      I'd love to say that the show was even better than the Vegas show, but, unfortunately, it came nowhere close. Yeah, she had more glitz, a bigger band, and a larger audience this time around, but I'm afraid the lip-synching and all the teleprompters really interfere with a true appreciation for this show.
      Yes, Dolly lip-synched. A LOT. The sound quality of her voice while singing was completely different than while she was speaking to the audience. And yes - her ad-libs during the songs (comments to musicians during instrumental interludes, etc) are pre-recorded as well. In addition to this, her comments between songs were scripted for her on the teleprompters (of which there were at 5 (one in the back, and four at her feet).
      I'm left wondering "WHY?!" Every note in Vegas was sung live - and everything sounded perfect. Is she trying to save her voice for what portends to be a long tour?
      All I know is that the one or two songs where she was singing live "Little Sparrow," "Thank God I'm A Country Girl" and maybe a few more) were the highlights of the evening.
      Don't get me wrong - I love Dolly. Always will. But I also know that she's capable of a better show than this. The last thing I want to do is lump Dolly together with Ashlee Simpson - but this show leaves me no choice.
      On a happier note - has anyone seen the tour program? It's by far the best one I've ever seen... very well done.
Scott Smith
Chicago, Ill.

Oct. 28, 2004
Hey there, Just wanted to let you know I went to the Detroit show last night, and it was truely the best show i've ever been to. she is the best entertainer and has such great stage presence. Dolly just radiates positive energy, you can't help buy leave happy. Her set list was a little different that has been posted so far. she didn't do the kenny doll or Go to hell, but she did do when johnny comes marching home. The crowd seemed to be really into the show and dolly was really connecting with the audiance. I came home and went on-line and bought airline tickets and concert tickets to her Las Vegas show. "long live the queen!" Thank you for all you do and keep up the good work.
Ron Kessler
St. Clair Shores, Mich.

Oct. 28, 2004
Thanks again Duane. Since I've been reading your online magazine daily, I've had a lot of opportunities regarding Dolly that I wouldn't have otherwise. I just got my pre-sale concert tickets today--5th row center stage. I'm confident in Dolly's ability to entertain me, as I've said before, so whether or not she's completely "live" is irrelevant at this point because I'll be close enough to practically see every pore on her face! I've been a fan for so long that for me, over half the Dolly draw is just to hear her stories and have a few good laughs. I'm looking forward to the acapella "Little Sparrow" everyone is talking so much about. I certainly am thankful for some lipsynching since I'm on the end of the tour and I definitely want a voice to hear by then. I'm a teacher and my voice hurts from speaking in class and reading books aloud every day. I can totally relate to the vocal chord problem...and singing is probably 10 times worse than what I experience. Thanks again so much. I'm thrilled!
Lory
Texas

Oct. 27, 2004
Hi Duane! I am sorry it has taken me so long to write about my trip to the Dolly concert in Toronto. As I have written to you before I had tickets to last Saturdays concert. One thing I noticed before I wentli was the ticket did not mention the Grascals. This lead me to believe that it too like other casino concerts would be cut down to 90mins. Sadly this was true! I do have hope since I also have tickets to Dolly at Mohegan Sun on Nov 13th. My tickets for Mohegan say Dolly with the Grascals. I have also seen several concerts there and none of them have every been cut short. So I have hope! As far as Toronto goes it was great! I did have a reservations after reading other concert review and the whole lypsynching issue. I now feel even foolish thinking that it would not be as good as the Halo and Horns tour. I was wrong! The show was great Dolly sounded good. I will say I do believe she did lypsynch a song or two. I certainly do not think the whole show was. But it does not matter others said she was not good at at it but she was always on the mark. My partner no big Dolly fan even had a great time and said it was a great concert. It is more of a show then Halo's and Horns. I can not wait till Blue Smoke is released. I really feal like I missed out on some great songs with them cutting it short. Let everyone know that regardless what others say that they should just go relax and enjoy this great show. I do have one bad thing...the 100 something old woman behind me thought she was also getting paid to sing for everyone too. LOL. At the end of the show Dolly said that the casino told her to keep is short and get them out on the floor. She said so go spend a lot so they bring me back next year! So there is some hope of a good tour next year! Keep up this great site it the best Dolly site around!
Jim
Hamden, Conn.
Glad you enjoyed the show. I know you'll love her Connecticut show as well!

Oct. 27, 2004
Just a note to thank you and Sugar Hill for the T-Shirt that was sent! : )
John J. Osborn
Beverly Hills, Calif.
Glad to have passed the word along to the 130 or so fans who received shirts. And thanks, again, to Sugar Hill for making them available!

Oct. 27, 2004
Hey Duane. Just thought I would let ya know that on CMT.ca There is a great write up from one of the CMT Central hosts, Nicola. It really warmed my heart. She did a half an hour interview with her which will air in November, but they did show a portion of it on CMT Central yesterday. She was asked about the Dukes os Hazzard and replied something like " No, I was to play Willie Nelsons wife, but I am very busy with the show, and childrens things." She said something else to...but I forget lol. Anyhow, you can read the article on CMT.ca by clicking CMT Central, then going into Nicolas Diary. A picture is included with the write up. Have a nice day! :)
Michelle
Ottawa, Ont., Canada
Thanks, Michelle. You may read the CMT Canada notes here.

Oct. 26, 2004
Hello, I just wanted to quickly comment on the lip synching thing real quick. After watching what happened to Ashlee Simpson last night on Saturday Night Live, I really hope that doesn't happen during any of Dolly's shows, for her sake. I've accepted the fact that this is what she's doing on this tour, not happy about it, but accepted it. As young Ashlee is finding out, one's credibilty really gets questioned after being exposed like that. I just found it very ironic that with all this lip synch talk something like what happened last night happens on live TV just proving why it shouldn't be done.
Allen Chapman
Stafford Springs, Conn.

Oct. 26, 2004
Hi Duane, Thanks for your hard work and dedication to this site. I was fortunate enough to attend the Dolly Show in Biloxi, And it was hands down, one of the pest performances I've seen her do. I've seen her many times over the years, (I've been a lifelong fan, and I am now 43) and I am so happy that she is singing new material, diverse material, and whether or not parts of the show were pre-recorded, is of no concern to me, it is STILL DOLLY's wonderful voice belting them out. (Being a song writer myself, I would LOVE for Dolly to breathe life into one of my compositions) I found the show to be extremely entertaining as always. Her rendition of Little Sparrow, was alone worth the price of the ticket. Her quit wit, and comedic talents were as sharp as ever. Her body is awesome, her talent for playing most any musical instrument known to man, amazes me. Having said that, I want to reiterate that, LIVE or Memorex (haha) her voice is simply amazing. To occupy the same SPACE in TIME as Dolly, is a treat I always look forward to, and other "True Fans" will tell you, it is an experience you will never forget!
To Dolly: THANKS so much for touring again, and for the show you have chosen to put together. Don't let a few negative reviews get you down. You are after all "The Iron Butterfly. So Fly, fly fly!!!! I look forward to attending a show again in the future. You are an Angel. God Bless You, and...
I Will ALWAYS Love You.
Keith Rivers
Alabama
PS Would LOVE to see this tour recorded for DVD release.

Oct. 26, 2004
Attended the concert @ Casino Rama Sunday Oct 24, and was not disappointed. Dolly it was another excellant show. Come back soooooooon..
Marie Stone
Brampton, Ontario, Canada

Oct. 25, 2004
Dear Duane, I recently purchased my tickets for Dolly's Sacramento show and I'm thrilled, to say the least! It hasn't really hit me yet that I get to see her in person again. I attended her Caesars Palace concerts in Reno many years ago when I was barely in high school. It remains two of the happiest moments of my life. I just read all of the emails commending or complaining about Dolly's lipsyncing. Yes, Dolly fans prefer to see her sing live, but I understand what live performing can do to a performer's body. I'm a dancer, in love with theatrical entertainment, and respect Dolly's goals to give a good show however she wishes or needs. It's a vigorously physical and mental job to reach an audience night after night, live music or prerecorded. I could care less if she just walks across the stage and bowed the entire time. I've been a fan of hers since I was 4 and am now almost 27. My life has been filled with Dolly's voice, smile, and heart. She has no idea how much she has guided me through childhood to womanhood and I am grateful to just be able to breathe the same air as her in December. I'm taking my mother, who used to sew dance costumes for me and always put me and my sister first. She loves and respects Dolly and the fact that Dolly's mother was an important part of her life and made her the famous Coat of Many Colors, so it's a special night for both my mom and me. Hopefully, Dolly's true fans can accept what she is doing for them...touring as many cities as possible so as many fans as possible can see her. Thank you, Dolly, for reaching us, touching us, and loving us. We love you!
Hillary Sakima
Penn Valley, Calif.

Oct. 25, 2004
Hello There, just returned from my trip to Toronto Canada to see The great Dolly Parton , This is my first time to see her live , Dolly was everything i had anticipated and more , She is like an angel , the concert was amazing Dolly sang for 90 minutes straight , She delivered many old classics and new , Blue Smoke was amazing , cant wait for the new album!!! Dolly made jokes, New ones Talked About Canada, And Being Cold!!!, I was lucky to have Great seats ,Dolly was Right on !!!she did not miss a beat , The performances were indeed Live !!! I traveled all the way from Newfoundland for only one night to see the show !!!! AND IT WAS WORTH EVERY PENNEY < I WOULD SPEND IT AGAIN!!!!! THANKS
Dion Bolt
St. Johns, Canada

Oct. 25, 2004
I join the MANY who like Dolly but do NOT like the lip singing ALL thru the concert. I heard her at Dollywood in Sept. and that was a good concert. The one in Columbus was the worst I have seen her do. Some of the theatrics were good but not all that great. No comparison to some great concerts I have seen. We were not prepared for 90%+ pre-recorded music. I am sure Dolly does not feel that she has disappointed her fans. She has!! I will not go to see this concert again but would have if it had been a REAL concert. I think Dolly has no one to blame but herself for the negative comments. She disappointed us.
Mike
Lexington, Ky.

Oct. 23, 2004
Dear Duane,
      Thank you so much for such an informative and current site about my favorite star! I check in regularly and appreciate your dedication.
      I wanted to share my thoughts on Dolly's tour, having seen both the Cleveland and Columbus shows. I've also attached some pics that I took from the concerts. Feel free to reprint my e-mail or upload the pics to your site, though the photos are not as good as some that have already been submitted. (Note: Photos posted here.)
      When I saw her the first night in Cleveland, my seats were in the fourth row. Being a regular visitor to your site, I was well aware that Dolly would be lip-synching a portion of the show, but I still found myself slightly disappointed by that fact and somewhat distracted by constantly trying to guess which parts were "real" and which parts were pre-recorded. The crowd in Cleveland didn't help much. I went expecting a wild party, so I dressed accordingly. The last pic I attached is of my "Dolly Pants" upon which I hand-painted her face. I was also wearing a "Dolly for President" shirt and perhaps the most obnoxious accessory ever - a silver, sparkling cowboy hat with a Dolly doll sewn onto the front of it!!!! Many people were thrilled with the outfit and I even received several commissions for Dolly pants, but the gentleman directly behind me was not a big fan of my slightly flamboyant get-up and made it a point to let me know that on several occasions finally insisting that I remove my hat so he could see the stage better. This request on its own was certainly not unreasonable, but his tone was so condescending and blatantly homophobic that I wanted to cry. It put a damper on the whole concert and I think caused me to be overly critical, especially when some of Dolly's pre-recorded, mid-song banter called to mind foreign films that have been over-dubbed in English.
      The second night (in Columbus), our seats were further back, right at the front of the first balcony. From that vantage point, I found it much easier to lose myself in the performance and accept it for what it was. Her mouth seemed perfectly in-synch with the words from that distance (even on screen) and I rarely even thought about the production techniques involved. She is a FABULOUS entertainer and the opportunity to see her on tour again is such a blessing. The crowd in Columbus seemed much more enthusiastic (and gay!) and we all had an AMAZING time. I would definitely recommend to people attending future concerts that they consider purchasing tickets within the middle to lower price ranges so that they may have the same wonderful experience as I had on the second night. In all honesty, I think they should reverse the ticket pricing so that the ones closest to the stage are cheapest. Being close to her was quite a thrill, but I truly had a much more enjoyable experience the second time around.
      I think a lot more performers lip-synch than we would ever imagine, and the fact that Dolly's not very good at it should be considered a good thing. At least we know she hasn't been doing it all along. She's certainly not Dolly-Vanillie! I hope that her fans stop taking things quite so seriously and just enjoy the show. We've always loved and admired the dichotomy that is Dolly Parton - the truly genuine spirit in a somewhat artificial package. I think the concert is kind of like that too. Sure, it has a lot of manufactured elements, but somehow Dolly's uniquely refreshing purity overrides all of that. That's a pretty impressive talent, wouldn't you say?
      Thought I'd throw in my two cents...Thanks again for everything you do!
Sincerely,
Paul Richmond
Ohio

Oct. 23, 2004
As I said earlier in my letter, I saw Dolly in Greenville,SC and felt most of it was on tape. I personally did not care as I know what her voice sounds like and the tape was true. Some people sound nothing like themselves in concert. Saw Aretha and Loretta both last year and would not see them again. Though I love "Van Lear Rose." I would see Dolly again as the show was entertaining.Same reason I saw Cher twice. Just go and enjoy. Shes still our girl, tape or no tape. Just wish I could've meet her that night. It was my 40th birthday!!!!!!
Tim
Greenville , S.C.

Oct. 23, 2004
Hi Duane, I know that I have already written you, but I had not had a chance to read the "letters to the webmaster" page at that time. I am really dissapointed in some of these fans, I have been a Dolly fan ALL of my life. I was SO excited about just being in the same space with Dolly, that if she did lip-sync, I didn't notice it. And so what if she did, I mean she is almost 60 years old, and I personally believe that she is doing great!!!! I would also like to comment about the letter from one of the readers speaking of some older artist "Loretta Lynn, Willie Nelson, Emmy Lou Harris, ETC.) How many of those artist actually do live performances now?? Not many, I am just happy that Dolly is on tour again. I am 23 years old, and never thought I would ever get to see her perform live, and I have now seen her twice in conert (Atlanta 2002, and Biloxi 2004), and I have to say she is the greatest artist out there!! All of these dissapointed fans really need to re-think their fan status, I mean you can't be a fan and be dissapointed too!! Anyway, Duane keep up the great work, and "I Will Always Love" Dolly, and hope many others do as well.
Jerail Batie
Sylacauga, Ala.

Oct. 23, 2004
I just want you to know that I'm 'bout to pee my pants waiting for Dolly to come to Austin! I'd pay $54 to watch her do her laundry. That's how confident I am in her ability to entertain me. Dolly, you're the best--loved you since I was 7...saw you when I was 13...saw you live at CMT Crossroads last year...and seeing you in concert again at age 33. Thank you for touring for me (because each time I see you, it seems like you're there just for me). Love ya, girl!
Lory
Texas

Oct. 22, 2004
Duane, I had the great pleasure of seeing Ms. Dolly tonight in Columbus. She was absolutely fabulous. She looked great and sounded great. I even got to see her going to her tour bus to prepare for the show (she rides in a golf cart). I guess she doesn't make any costume changes at any venues... smart on her part. She did appear to lip-sinc different parts... but WHO CARES... I dont. She is a performer and a damn good one too. She performed all the songs previously mentioned minus "Islands in the Streams". It was a great song selection and overall performance. I was fortunate enough to be 4 rows back. The crowd consisted of a lot of young people. It didn't sell out but there was a good size crowd. She talked to the audience but not as much as I've seen before... they were a little rowdy. She didn't mention anything about "Shock and Awe" but did joke about her boobs. She used her lines "It takes a lot of money to make someone look this cheap". It looked to me that she did not lip sinc "Little Sparrow" and it sounded awesome. Her versions of "Me and Bobby MeGee" and "Imagine" were incredible. The tour book if awesome as well as the other tour items.
      I met a really nice young male from Grove City who was bummed out about being so far back. I felt bad because there was two empty seats next to me and if the show had not been so fast paced I would have went and got him.. cause I saw where he was sitting... and told him to come down. So if he is reading this, I was thinking about you man. Other stuff... Richard walked around outside the stadium a good bit talking on a cell phone... maybe seeing what capacity there was going to be. The Grascals were great and I am now a fan. I hope Dolly plans on recording her show for a new DVD. The beginning was so special with all the old photos and than leading up to her slide show of "Hello Dolly". One other thing... Dolly mentioned that her Mother passed away nine months ago and stated that she did not go far because she will always be here (pointing to her heart)... that was touching and received a lot of applause. Well that's my take on the show. Dolly is awesome and truly an all american icon.
Derek Thomas
Columbus, Ohio

Oct. 22, 2004
Duane, I just got back from the Columbus, OH Concert On Oct. 20 and what a concert/show it was!! This is the best Dolly Concert I have ever seen! I was so overwhelmed and happy. All the techniques they added to the concert was a plus! I felt like I well got my moneys worth and just can't wait to see her again in concert! I am off to Dollywood for the weekend now and what a wonderful way to begin my long weekend than to have seen Dolly in concert! I am so glad she came to Columbus, OH and only hope she returns to our state asap. Keep up the good work Duane and Hello to all the other Dolly Fans out there!
Darrick Beekman
Waverly, Ohio

Oct. 22, 2004
Dwayne, I am writing in response to everyone's reviews of Dolly's new Concerts. I just want you to know that me, my best friend, Stephanie, and 2 other friends went to see Dolly at the Fox in Atlanta last Friday night and it was AWESOME. I am very disappointed in some of the fans response to her shows that she had done so far. I think she did an excellent job – especially showing her talent on piano, fiddle, penny whistle, autoharp, and harmonica. The only song/words I could tell she lip-synched was "Go To Hell". Even if she did, it is still Dolly. Every Performer this day and time – well, most of them - that does a big production show (including Madonna) Lip-synch. I think that we need to show Dolly our support of her going out on tour again. She is doing it for her fans and by golly, I think we need to support her. If we don't, then she may end up not ever touring again.
      The Atlanta show was the best concert I have ever seen her do – EVER!!! She was feeling good and could feel the energy from the crowd. The only thing I was disappointed on is that she cut out "Little Sparrow" from it, and that is my favorite song, especially hearing her sing a cappella. My favorite part of the show was when she sang "Smoky Mtn. Memories" with the Penny Whistle and then "Hello God" at the end. You could really feel her emotions and could tell that it came straight from her heart and she poured all her energy and vocals into those 2 songs.
      I loved every minute of this show and I know that the whole crowd enjoyed it as much as me because they cheered and let her know how they felt the whole time.
      From one Dolly fan to another, Thank you,
Crystal Ellis
Calhoun, Ga.

Oct. 22, 2004
Dear Duan, I just had to respond to those nasty e-mails that I just read about Dolly.so what if she lip-syncs. I agree with Jonathan Brashier,who i might add is a great person,I met him at the Huntsville,Alabama DVD signing and he was the niciest person.I have come across so many Dolly fans that were so rude and snobby,I just had to mention this. Ok about Dolly,she is the only celebrity i know that takes time for their fans.for 18 years i have dreamed of meeting Dolly Parton and my dream became a reality on September 17th 2004 in Huntsville,Alabama.I waited in line for 7 hrs to meet her and it was worth every minute i stood there.what makes me like Dolly is her sweet personality and love for others. All those nasty so called fans are gonna keep on til Dolly drops out of the spot light for good. Sincerely
Mark Higgins
Florence, Ala.

Oct. 22, 2004
Hi Duane; Have you thought about adding a page with Dolly's set list from the tour with the corresponding albums where each song can be found? Perhaps you could even provide direct links to where the albums can be purchased. It would also be a way to point out which songs are expected to be on the new Blue Smoke album. Just an idea! Thanks for all your work on such a great site.
Luke Wall
Kenner, La.
Thanks for the suggestion, Luke. Maybe if I get the time to format one up, I'll add it to the "Hello I'm Dolly" Tour page.

Oct. 22, 2004
Hello, Dolly! First of all, let me say that I have followed the life and carrer of Dolly Parton for close to 35 years, and I understand most of the choices she makes. As she often says, she is "simply complicated", which describes the concert last night. The arena, which was about 75% full (I never count those nose-bleed seats) was filled with the typical Dolly fans, older women, some middle aged couples, and gay men (and women). The tour merchandise was of great quality and the tour book is well worth the $30.00.
      The Grascal's set was live and pretty well done. They are very talented and good songwriters as well. The song "Me and Paul" is very good.
      After a 30 minute break - Dolly came out to what could be the best show she has ever produced, if she had really been performing it. First of all, she is really talking to the audience, because she made too many mistakes, for it to be "produced" - and yet again, she tried to justify the "production" - which was better left alone. The hits package was really well done and good that it was soon over - since most of us really wanted her to get to the new stuff. "I Dreamed of Elvis" with Jamie Johnson as Elvis is wonderful, and a very well written song. "Me and Bobbie McGee" was another good choice for Dolly, putting yet another standard through the "DollyMill" (which is a good thing). "Imagine" was another high point in the show, very well done. Of course, during the show, Dolly flirted and had a lot of fun with the band, and her between song banter was never better, and was the only time she really contected with the crowd. Until, of course, "I Will Always Love You" finally got the crowd on it's feat with a standing, cheering round of admiration. I believe that is one of the best written songs of all time, and Dolly's version is by far the best. The high point of the show, Dolly, with no band, no tape, no nothing, stood in a single spotlight and REALLY SANG the song "Little Sparrow"- you could hear the spit hitting the mike and the breath's being taken on each precious note. That was awesome, and to me, worth the price of the ticket.
      Of course, never one to know when she won the crowd over and quit - she started with "Thank God I'm a Country Girl" - which was so terrible and completly fake - I won't say anything but that she needs to take that out of the show ASAP.
      But, she redeemed herself with the banter about her mother, and the loss of her mother, which moved me to tears. "Coat of Many Colors" again brought the crowd to it's feet.
      The close of "Hello God" in the "angel" top was impressive, and she left the crowd, again on it's feet, most not knowing exactly what they just saw.
      Dolly Parton has a history of vocal problems, cancelling 20 shows in 1976 - due to vocal problems - the "Real Love" tour in 1985 - she was taking shots to help her get by. Even last year at the 4th of July PBS special, she was in bad shape vocally, so I do understand why is being "helped" on this tour, for God's sake - she is almost 60 years old. Of course, some parts of her aren't 30 yet (that was a little joke, she never looked better). She needs this to help her, or she couldn't do it (this type of tour) without serious problems.
      That being said, she is DOLLY - and I will always love her for being herself. I would pay just to listen to her talk - her old corny jokes, her cute new ones, her flirtations with the band, all make for a great show. The way she can take any old worn out song (Me and Bobbie McGee) and bring it to life.
      Bottom line, I understand her and why she does make the choices she makes, she has to have the "production" in order to do what she loves, being on a stage and bringing her songs to life, no matter if she has to have help to do it. Bringing those songs to life, those works of amazing art, is worth pretending the "opposite is true" on the part of any lover of great music. Dolly Parton is and always will be the "fairest of them all".…
Mark McCarty
Columbus, Ohio

Oct. 22, 2004
I just wanted to share my thoughts on Dolly's amazing show last night in Columbus...She was awesome,and she brought the house to their feet many times through out the evening.Her cover of Imagine is superb.Blue Smoke may bring Dolly roaring back to radio.The audience loved that song and were standing and clapping before the song was half over.Thank you, Dolly for making this lifelong fan one happy man..I will never forget that you are doing this for your fans...It was obvious ...Duane thanks for your great Dolly coverage and objectiveness.
Bill Christian
Barboursville, W.V.

Oct. 22, 2004
I am hoping maybe you can help me. I would like to know how to get information on Dolly's fan club. I would like to join. Thank you so much
April Markinson
Paramount, Calif.
Unfortunately, April, Dolly does not operate a fan club.

Oct. 22, 2004
Thanks again, Duane for your excellent work on Dollymania. I read your site every day for Dolly updates. I was in Columbus for the concert last night and I just have to say Dolly was incredible! The crowd was on their feet 4 or 5 times (plus the standing ovation at the end). Lip synch? Yea, maybe a couple of places, but no it absolutely did not take away from the experience. I noticed only on the "sound effects" during "Baby, It's Cold Outside", and she even made a comment about that. She was in fabulous form -- physically, vocally and mentally. She was funny, creative, entertaining and soul-touching. This is one concert I'd LOVE to see on DVD. It was everything you want to see in a Dolly performance... well, except that it was over too soon!
Robyn Clark
Dayton, Ohio

Oct. 22, 2004
I go to many concerts. And I don't attend them just to see a performer, on a stage, in a spotlight. I go to see great singer/songwriters who are masters of their craft. I go to see them perform their songs LIVE, to experience the heartfelt intentions and passion behind the songs. I'm so disgusted by the show I witnessed on the 14th. I was so ironic how, while on stage, Dolly Parton commented that she jokes about herself, but she doesn't joke about her songs. That whole spectacle was a joke! My mother and I were sitting beforehand discussing how sad it is was that the opening night of her tour had not sold out. We were admonishing fans for not supporting Dolly. Frankly, that show did not deserve to sell out. And personally, I feel I'm due a refund! All the rest of you guys want to accept whatever crappy show a performer gives, far be it from me to condemn you. But lay-off the rest of the fans who expected to see a great LIVE performance from one of their "former"-favorite singer/songwriters.
Doshia
Charlotte, N.C.

Several additional letters arrived on Wednesday addressing the tour concerns. Here they are:

Oct. 21, 2004
As always, Thank You Duane for an outstanding job on your website for the INCREDIBLE Dolly Parton!
      If any of you have not attended a concert yet, DO NOT let any of the negative comments distract you from enjoying Dolly and the show! She is amazing!!
      Steve and I were lucky enough to attend both Biloxi shows and enjoyed them tremendously! After the show on Saturday night, I was in tears! I was so excited for Dolly being on the road again, excited for us to be able to experience her new show, and I left the show with a happy heart by just being in her presence!
      Dolly never ceases to amaze me and we loved the shows! She looked beautiful, as always, the costumes were cute and she had a great time, as well did the audience! We were glad to see a new show, especially after "Live and Well" recently being released, which we have enjoyed!
      When the concert was over, I overheard an elderly man saying "this was my first Dolly concert and I loved it"
      Dolly is a wonderful person, an amazing artist, songwriter and storyteller, and a beautiful human being - inside and out. We all have been blessed to have experienced the one and only Dolly Parton!! Enjoy the new concert tour and enjoy Dolly!!
Mike White
Dallas, Texas

Oct. 21, 2004
Hi Duane I am very disapointed in the response of the fans of Dolly ( of course I respect them though), because I have been a fan of Dolly's for almost 35 years, now and still trying to get to see her in concert or to go to Dollywood to see her. I have had trouble seeing her because of a disability, and a small disability pension, that doesn't allow me to go. I would greatly appreciate it if I got to see Dolly even for 5 minutes, let alone a whole concert. Fans have to realize that although Dolly isn't old, she has been in the music business for a long time now, and she still wants to entertain her fans, and if she was to do all the songs live, I think she probably would not be able to do as many concerts for fans, because she would be ruining her voice, and making herself sick, and I wouldn't want that to happen. Doing all those Concerts are tiring enough as it is, I know, because my partner is a singer and does a lot of concerts. If we all LOVE Dolly, we should cut her some slack and appreciate all that she does do for us, and enjoy her in what ever she decides to do. I Love Dolly, she is very special to me and want to see her do things, without tiring herself out.
Leesa Roleck
Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada

Oct. 21, 2004
Duane, I know you don't want any more emails on the lipsynch issue, but your editorial commentary raises some interesting points. Yes, many artists do lipsynch on stage as you stated. However, Britany Spears, Madonna, Janet Jackson etc. do shows that rely heavily on dance choreography. Dolly isn't doing any back-flips that would hinder a vocal performance. It is VERY common knowledge that the artists mentioned will lipsynch during their concerts, therefore people who go to those shows expect that from them. People do not expect that from Dolly. As far as her voice being so fragile that she can't possibly do all the back-to-back dates without lipsynching, then she shouldn't do 40 dates in a row. Her Halos and Horns tour was spread out enough that she was able to manage that without lipsynching, there's no reason for her to perform night after night after night if her voice just can't handle it. Why didn't she just play a few dates, take a couple weeks off, then play a few more and so on? Guess it's just easier and more profitable for her to lipsych 40 shows for 3 months straight. I do think that it was right for you to give coverage to this issue, that way fans who have not yet purchased tickets know what they can expect to see before they spend their money. Every press release about this show mistakenly called it a musical journey through her career, and that is not what she's doing on stage. Dolly can do whatever she wants, it's her show, but there are fans out there who do not want to pay $50 just to see her "milk a goat" so to speak.
Jason
Atlanta, Ga.

Oct. 21, 2004
Duane, I have been a Doly fan for 31 years. If I remember many years ago when Dolly toured her doctor told her no more than 3 or 4 days tour with rest to follow in between. As we can see this is not happening much with this tour. This could be the reason she is not singing all the songs live. I'll be in Columbus tonight and can't wait.
Doug
Findlay, Ohio

Oct. 21, 2004
I want to respond to these "fans" about the Dolly Concerts. I had the fortunate experience to meet Dolly only 7 days after her mother died in 2003. She didn't have to, but she knew I had been a fan for over 25 years and she allowed me to have the priviledge to meet her, even with her heart breaking!!! She is phenomenal and a true lady. Anyone who is a true fan would know that! She is an ENTERTAINER and worth any type of money to see her in person! I used to go to Dollywood for the "ambassador" meetings and she always made time for us. I wish someone would explain what happened to make her stop doing that for her true fans. It probably had something to do with loud mouths demanding more from her than is possible. We do not own her, she is a gift from God and as such should be treated with the greatest of care!!! Please place this on the website so Dolly can see how her die-hard fans (of over 25 years!) really feel. In addition, can you please let me know what did happen to the fan club?
Deanne Welsh
Harbeson, Del.
In 1997, Dolly sent a letter to members of the fan club refunding their annual membership dues and explaining she was disbanding the club because it bothered her to profit from fans' devotion and their sending in their hard-earned money to her charitable foundation (which was the recipient of all membership dues) because of their feelings for her instead of their support of its work. In the months prior to the decision, a small but very vocal minority of fan club members had complained that they didn't think they got enough for their dues, and it apparently hurt Dolly's feelings pretty badly.

Oct. 21, 2004
Hey, I just wanted to express my opinion on the concerts. I went to Greenville and Atlanta shows, they were the most fun shows I have been to. Though I had seen the same show the night before, Atlanta was awesome. I enjoyed it so much that I am going to a few more shows in the next few weeks. I could care less if Dolly does lip synch. She puts on such a great show it is worth it to go and see her. I go to Dollywood every year just to see her go by in a parade and if by chance see her perform a few songs. So if anyone is questioning on going to see her, if you are a true fan you will enjoy every minute of the show. See ya at the shows. We love you Dolly.
Jennifer
Murrells Inlet, S.C.

Oct. 21, 2004
First, thank you Duane for your hard work researching and publishing information about this tour, including the lip-synching issue.
      I am disappointed to learn that some (most?) of the show is lip-synched. People can say that I'm not a real fan, or that I have no right to complain, but the bottom line is that lip-synching is a disappointing trend in "live" shows these days and I wish Dolly hadn't chosen that route.
      I saw her at the House of Blues in L.A. two years ago and it was one of the most thrilling live experiences I've witnessed. That's because it was "live". I recently noticed that Dolly is lip-synching on "Stairway To Heaven" on "Live and Well" and I'm glad she didn't sing it at the House of Blues.
      Anyway, I look forward to seeing the event in San Jose, but I won't call it a concert. Dolly's great and like everyone else, I'd pay to see her read the phone book. But I don't need a big production, I'd rather hear this beautiful woman sing her beautiful songs with her beautiful live voice.
Ryan
San Francisco, Calif.

Oct. 21, 2004
Dear Duane, Thank you for your sensitivity in dealing with this sad controversy of late. You're an awesome webmaster. I don't know if Dolly ever reads these letters or not. But I just wanted to say how I feel.
      Dolly, Thank you for the music you've given me over the years. You have been the soundtrack to many wonderful days, and the healing ointment on many terrible ones as well.
      But after all these years, I'm really upset with you. The reason: your choice to lip-synch your current tour.
      This is not a rash judgment. I have supported you in several other instances, even when I was embarrassed to do so. I have defended your pop albums and your determination to have cosmetic surgery at every possible opportunity. But I will never, ever, ever defend a fake or a fraud. Let me be blunt: lip-synching is fake and fraudulent and I expected more of you. I expected integrity.
      Maybe Cher, Barbra Streisand, and Britney Spears are fakes. Maybe country stars like Shania and Faith Hill lip-synch, too. But I have no respect for them. The artists I love never fake it: Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Loretta Lynn. Can you imagine any of those people lip-synching a show? How about Emmylou Harris or Linda Ronstadt? Of course not. Not ever. They would be ashamed to do so, as should you.
      Why? Because you are capable of so much better than that. And because as hard-working people, we deserve more. We deserve more than spending hard-earned money on someone who won't be singing live.
      You and your defenders say that you're doing it for production value. Come on now, Dolly. You and I both know people don't care about that. I wouldn't care if you were standing in front of a blank stage in your overalls--as long as you were singing to me with that clear, true, amazing, pure country, beautiful voice you have.
      So I will let the rest of your admirers defend you this time. I cannot do it. And I know with your level of fame, you wouldn't even miss losing one little fan like me.
      Good luck (and thanks Duane),
Michael
New York, N.Y.

Oct. 21, 2004
Hi Duane, I just wanted to let you know a little bit more about the concert in Cleveland last night when I wrote you I was still pretty excited. I just thought you would like to know something that was different from some of the other concerts she has done for instance she sang Rocy Top instead of Go To Hell and she didn't sing Islands In The Stream. I think that that was about the only differences that were done to the show. Just thought you would like to know. and if my pictures turn out I will email you some. Keep up the good work!!
Amanda
Kent, Ohio

Oct. 21, 2004
I was at the Dolly concert (Cleveland) and just don't understand what all the fuss is about. Many in the crowd had tears in there eyes and laughter in the hearts. I would give the show 10 stars. So happy to report at least half the crowd was under the age of 25. There are superstars and then there is Dolly. Her bit with the Elvis look-a-like priceless. Stars half her are should have the energy she does.
Frank Monateri
Cleveland, Ohio

Oct. 21, 2004
I just have to say anyone complaining about Dolly lip synching on stage is truly not a fan of hers. Those of us that are true fans, respect and love her no matter what, and know what a talented performer she really is. So she lip synched a couple songs, big deal. Dolly has more talent in her little finger than most starts have in their whole over-produced bodies. I saw Dolly in Chicago at the House of Blues and she was flawless (no lip synching). I am going to see her in St Paul at the end of the month and know that I will see a great show, she never dissappoints. Those of you the are attacking Dolly, remind me of Elton John recently attacking Madonna over the same subject. Elton is just jealous and he wishes he had the same sort of attraction and presence that Madonna has on stage. All of you bad mouthing Dolly should be ashamed of yourselves, she is doing this for us and we should appreciate the fact that she is back on the road. I wouldn't blame her if she doesn't tour again, if this is the thanks she is going to get. We true Dolly fans need to stick together and let Dolly know we support and love her and let her know she is doing a phenominal job.
Daniel
Madison, Wis.

Oct. 21, 2004
Hello! I thought the Cleveland show was both very colorful and comical. The TVs in the background helped those who were far away to see her. I didn't realize how darn TINY she is!
Joyce
Strongsville, Ohio

Oct. 21, 2004
I would like to add my opinion to the Dolly lip-synching scandal. I don't see what the big deal is. At least she is lip-synching to her own vocals! It would be a different story if someone else's voice was coming out of the monitors. We all know Dolly can sing, no question. We also know that Dolly does not HAVE to tour anymore. This is something she is doing for her fans and I for one am grateful. I'm looking forward to having the opportunity to see her perform live for the first time next month and I really don't care if she fakes every note. It's a privilege just to be in the same room with this amazing artist and country music legend.
Scott
Blacksburg, Va.

Oct. 21, 2004
I'm going to see Dolly at the Bryce Jordan Center in Pa. I was lucky enough to get 3rd row seats....and I don't care if she is lip syncing or not!!! She's Dolly Parton and that's enough for me! I've always wanted to see her and now I finally can! She is not a dumb woman...does everyone think she would want to ruin her whole life's work?? She said from the time she started the tour it was going to different with a lot of production, etc. She could be doing many other things...but instead she is doing this for her fans.
B. Myers
Doylesburg, Penn.

Oct. 21, 2004
Duane, Just got back from the Dolly concet in Columbus. EXCELLENT!!! She really was in great spirts and the show was flawless. I swear she sang the whole show live. She did drop Islands and Go to Hell but I believe added Rocky Top I will have to go back and see the set list. I took friends with us to the show and they loved it. Couldn't get close to the stage the usher wouldn't let me down to take pictures but her outfit she wore is the same on the tour book just different shoes. It is a must see show!!
Doug
Findlay, Ohio

Oct. 21, 2004
Vote For "Dolly Show": Do you want to see both 1970s and 1980s "Dolly Show" series on DVD? Well you might be able too. On www.TVshowsonDVD.com you can vote for TV shows you would like to see on DVD. You have to register with the site to vote, but it's totally free. With enough Dolly fans voting, we could make this happen. Let's all start voting!
Brian
Corona, Calif.
Thanks, Brian (first for sending in a letter that had nothing to do with the tour)! I know many fans, myself included, would love to see both her series on DVD, and I have voted on that site before for them to do just that. Maybe if enough fans demand it, we'll get it!

Oct. 20, 2004
Ever since I have been a Dolly fan, I have been just like the rest of the die-hards and never missed an opportunity to ask Ms. Parton the question: "When are you going on tour?". So far I have attended two of the "Hello I'm Dolly" shows and have tickets to several more. Whether Dolly lip-synched or didn't lip-synch at the concert is truly irrelevant. The performance and the production that she has created for us (as she claims it is for the fans) is phenomenal. Her voice is rich with sound and vibrato as if she had drank a cup of honey before each song. The skits, props, jokes, and Dolly humor is worth seeing alone. Dolly, I think that you have done a wonderful job creating a wonderful show! Welcome back on tour; it's so nice to have you back where you belong! ;-)
Jeremy Brown
Miami, Fla.

Oct. 20, 2004
don't know what the big deal is! Who cares if she is not singing live. She's Dolly, She could stand on stage and play her fingernails all night for all I care. She wants to put on a great show and I'm sure she will and has. Sure, I am a little disapointed but I am still excited to see her. She is performing a lot of songs and I am sure it has to be hard on the voice. She is doing it for us. Let's cut her some slack!!
Joseph
St. Louis, Mo.

Oct. 20, 2004
Hey Duane, I was at the concert in Greenville, and I thought it was great. I can see how people can complain about lip syncing, and yeah she did, a great deal, but who cares. At least she is going on a big tour for her fans. I dont see how people can be so rude to say they will never waste another penny, to me that is a crock of bull. She looked great, and she put on a show, and to me that is all that matters, despite of the lip synching!! I know I am a true Dolly fan, and thses people that are posting these rude and obnoxiouns comments about Dolly mustnt be any type of loyal fans to Miss Dolly!! I am hoping to attend some more of her concerts, although I wont get good seats like I did at greenville but at least I can see her! And from what I understand, I may be wrong, but she must know what us the fans have said about her to tell you that, and that would hurt knowing that supposive fans turn on her like that. Well that is my opionion on Dolly Thanks,
Justin Davis
Symsonia, Ky.

Oct. 20, 2004
I went to see Dolly in Atlanta and it was one of the best concerts I have ever seen. There were no complaints from me or the two friends I brought with me that were originally not big Dolly fans. I actually think they are big fans after seeing the show. I have been wondering if Dolly will be changing her costume at any of the venues. It would be nice to see something a little different. But again, regardless it was a wonderful show and highly recommended
Tom
Nashville, Tenn.

Oct. 20, 2004
Hi Duane, I wanted to take a minute to defend Dolly and respond to what a lot of folks have been saying about her lip-synching in her "Hello I'm Dolly" concerts. I don't normally air my personal views in a public forum, but I decided to write a "Letter to the Webmaster" in hopes that maybe Dolly will see it and know that there are fans out there rooting for her instead of complaining *again* that she didn't deliver for them.
      To respond to those complaining that parts of the show are lip-synched, I'd like to point out that touring is incredibly hard on a singer's voice. I can tell you from all the time I've spent on the road as a stand-up comedian that it is very very easy to lose your voice if you aren't careful. I've gone hoarse on many occasions after doing shows several nights in a row, and I'm not even a singer! I don't want to even think about what might happen to Dolly's voice if she exhausted it every night on the tour. Have the complainers forgotten about Dolly's voice problems in the 1970s that were brought on by too much work?
      People might say, "Fine, she shouldn't tour then" but I say we should be grateful for this chance to see Dolly live. She truly is a special woman, and to be in the same room with her is one of the best experiences a fan could hope for. Sure, we love hearing her sing, but I would rather she take care of her voice and lip-synch every now and then during the show if she has to. Of course I'm not saying that that's one of the reasons why she's chosen to lip-synch portions of the show, but it is something to consider. Dolly sounds better now than she did 30 years ago, and you certainly cannot say that about most singers who've continued touring. Dolly should be commended for going on such an extensive tour at her age. She has more energy at 58 than I had when I was 18.
      So I say to all who call themselves fans: Go to the concerts, enjoy the music, enjoy seeing Dolly live, be grateful that you had the opportunity. In my travels to write my poems about Dolly and Dollywood, I've talked to many people who would give *anything* just for a chance to see her in person, even if it was only for a second. Be happy that you were one of the lucky ones.
      Duane, thanks for all the hard work you do on the site. It truly is the best Dolly site on the web, and it must have been such an honor for you to have heard from Dolly. See you at Dollywood!
Stephen Powers
Milwaukee, Wis.

Oct. 20, 2004
Duane, How dare you write to Dolly and question her live performances! Even if you are a so-called "media professional" you should still have enough respect for Dolly to not do such a thing. In a way you are representing Dolly online, your job is to make her look the best possible, not to draw into question whether or not she is acutally performing live in her shows. It doesn't make one bit of difference to me if Dolly performs live or not, it is still a thrill to see her in person. This is Dolly's first major tour in many years, by writing to Dolly like you did, you may convince her that her fans are ungrateful and thus influence her decision to tour in the future (remember what happened with the fan club back in 1996?).
Mitch Nelson
Spartanburg, S.C.

Oct. 20, 2004
I went to both the Greenville and Atlanta concerts, as disappointed as I was to see that she was lip-synching, I still thoroughly enjoyed the show. It was a wonderful production and it was nice to see her do a show this big and flashy again. It would have been nice to hear her sing live and to also hear full versions of her hits (9 to 5, Why'd You Come In Here, etc) instead of the abbreviated versions. Lip-synching or live....I still love her!
Jeff
Ringgold, Ga.

Oct. 20, 2004
I know Dolly says only part of the show was pre-recorded, but that's a little hard for me to believe - especially sitting within the first 2 rows at in Greenville and Atlanta. From what I saw it appears that the "part" she speaks of is the part between the beginning and the end. I was so shocked to see her lip-synching the entire show. As someone stated earlier, there were times when she was supposed to be singing and her mouth wasn't even open at all! I will say that in Greenville, Little Sparrow as live - but that's it. So many people who had paid lots of money to see her live in concert, were upset, disappointed and very angry. I heard rumors of refunds being demanded in Atlanta. Some fans that had tickets to shows elsewhere were already planning to sell their other tickets as they were coming out of the Atlanta show. One audience member even said he would never pay to see her in concert ever again. Before going to the shows, I expected that some songs would be lip-synched, since that is the norm these days for big production tours; but I didn't expect as much lip-synching as we got. Don't get me wrong, I love Dolly to death and would pay to go see her milk a goat on stage, but I can see where so many people are upset. Other than the lip-synching, the only complaint I have is that this tour was publicized as a career retrospective, so to speak; but I didn't feel that this show spanned her career at all. Her hits were cut short, none of her bluegrass numbers made it into the set list (with the exception of Grass Is Blue, but it wasn't performed bluegrass), and the bulk of the show was new material. As happy as I am to get a preview of the new Blue Smoke CD, I know people who came to see her do her hits were probably disappointed.
ExpressGuy
Chattanooga, Tenn.

Oct. 20, 2004
Okay – I have held my tongue as long as I possibly could. So here goes.
      Let me begin by saying that the Hello I'm Dolly Tour show is the one of the best "Production" type concert events that Dolly Parton has ever put together.
      The format and layout of the entire show is thrilling and entertaining. I attended the show in both Greenville and Atlanta and I can assure you that I was ENTERTAINED and had the time of my life as did my friends and family who attended the shows with me.
      I have been so excited about this tour for months and when tickets went on sale, I purchased tickets for friends, family and even co-workers who were dying to see this living legend that I have talked about for years. They left the show mesmerized by her stage presence, beauty, humor and the fact that they had an opportunity to see her live and in person. Not one of them has yet to mention anything negative about the show.
      And as far as all of this lip-synching chatter, it really needs to STOP! Regardless if the vocals for the songs are prerecorded or not, it is still a wonderful production style concert and DOLLY PARTON is standing right in front of you on stage in person. SO you people really don't have anything to bitch about.
      Have any of you idiots ever heard of CHER? Well let me inform you that the majority of this never ending FAREWELL TOUR that she has been on for 3 years is prerecorded as well. And her shows are still selling out all over the country. It is not that uncommon for an entertainer, especially one on a tour with as many back to back dates as Dolly is performing to use pre recorded tracks during the show. How in the hell do you expect her to perform 40 concerts nearly in a row? I mean come on the woman wouldn't have any voice left at all to record new CD's, or even talk for that matter.
      Now for the big question…… You people call yourself FANS? Well I don't think that these nasty letters and emails that you are sending in regarding this show really exemplify the definition of a FAN. This woman that we all admire and love is back on the road again after nearly a two decade absence and she is doing it for US! And those words are straight from her mouth. Did you people ever stop to think that she might be reading these nasty notes and comments? Well I can tell you that a true FAN would never do anything to hurt Dolly's feelings. If I were her and after reading all of your silly nasty-grams, I wouldn't even want to finish the tour, because you are all coming across very unappreciative. This woman does so much for us unlike many celebrities who are not even accessible to their fans. She sits and signs autographs, she stops and poses for pictures, she makes awesome records and is one of the funniest human beings I know. She is an entertainer, and that's what she is doing on this tour. ENTERTAINING HER FANS!
      And by the way, this is supposed to be a fan based web site which should practice highlighting and celebrating Dolly Parton and her career for the joy she brings to millions of people the world over. My advice to the web master would be to not take up space on your hard drive with some of the garbage that I have had to read and endure over the last several days.
Jonathan Brashier
Greenville, S.C.

Oct. 20, 2004
Hey Duane! I have enjoyed your web site for a very long time and keep up the great work for all us Dolly fans!! I have never written before, but I feel I need to give my view of Dolly's tour. I would go see this lady if she just came out to say hi and strutted around the stage while they played her songs! The music after all is Dolly's music. It's her songs written by her, and to me, she has more talent and entertaining value than anyone. My husband and I have tickets to see her in Vegas(13th row!), and I can't wait. He has always wanted to go out there, but I've been to chicken to fly since the terroists attacks, but I'll suck it up to see Dolly! We have season tickets to Dollywood and we saw her there in concert just a few weeks ago and she was wonderful as usual. It is pretty clear that Dolly or someone close to her visits this site and I just want her to know that she has many more fans like myself that are so grateful that she is doing this tour. I've been waiting a long time for a show like this and wanted her to know that we've missed her! Thank you Dolly!! And thank you Duane for a wonderful site that keeps us all informed on our favorite star!
Diane
Madisonville, Tenn.

Oct. 20, 2004
Wow after reading all of these nasty messages from all of these "fans", I feel the need to put in my two cents. All of this pointless talk about whether or not Dolly lip synched is getting ridiculous! Who cares!! The show was absolutly fantastic. If you consider yourself any kind of fan you would have just been happy that you were getting to sit and watch Dolly perform in front of you for an hour and a half. I have been a fan for many years and I've heard nothing but how much everyone wanted her to go back on tour, so now why when she gives us what we've been asking for is everyone bitching about it??? Every fan I know knows that there is no way that Dolly could have performed a night after night 40 city tour and sing all of the songs. Everyone knows her voice wouldn't of held out for all of that. But this whole argument is irrelevant, because the show I saw was absolutly fantastic. The jokes, song selection, and the overall production were top notch. What a wonderful show to bring back on the road! I saw the opening night in Greenville and I sat on the front row the following night in Atlanta, and reguardless of whether or not she was or wasn't lip synching, all of us had hands down the greatest time we've ever had at any show! To Dolly I just want to say thank you for coming back out on tour. It has been an absolute blast!
Sheena
Nashville, Tenn.

Oct. 20, 2004
Ok so Dolly was lip-synching some of her songs. But do you all realize how lucky you are to be actually able to see her live! Come on now, almost two months of concerts for her to do, and from what I saw on her live and well dvd, a concert can be pretty full on. If Dolly was to tour in Australia and come to my state then I wouldn't care if she was lip-synching through some of her concert, I would just be thrilled to see her in person. If you are lucky enough to be able to go to one of her concerts, then enjoy it for those of us who couldn't make it!
Deborah
Perth, Australia

Oct. 20, 2004
In the first place, why does it matter if Dolly is lip-synching any portion of her concerts? It is still Dolly. I think the fans should be careful with their complaints, when Dolly got wind that many fans were disappointed with her fan club in the 90's, she decided to drop the fan club. I don't think anybody wants Dolly to cancel future tour dates, so just be grateful she is on the road again! As Dolly said, she is doing the tour for her fans; I doubt she really needs the money. Of course, the true Dolly fans aren't complaining, as Dolly stated in her 1994 autobiography, we would go watch her if all she did was milk a goat on stage. I thought the Greenville show was fabulous and can't wait to see the Raleigh and Winston-Salem shows.
Solomon Willis
Gastonia, N.C.

Oct. 20, 2004
dolly's concert in greeville was awesome. The only negative thing about the concert was that she didn't really try to conect with the audiance. for instance my daughter and i were in the front row and i had a big sign saying my baby is due today but i'm here instead and everyone but dolly saw it. another thing, my daughter brought flowers to give to dolly and usally when you are in the first few rows you are allowed to put flowers on the stage or get a autogragh but that was not allowed. that was the only disappointing this about that night. But her show was just awesome.
Amy
Greenwood, S.C.

Oct. 20, 2004
Hi Duane, I just wanted to say that I just got back from the Dolly concert in Cleveland. It was woderful. I loved every moment of it. She has gotten better at the lipsyncing she had hardly any problems. Her voice on Little Sparrow was great. She sang Smoky Mountain Memories for her Uncle Fred Parton and his family who was at the concert. Both were great. I absolutly loved the concert and would do it again. I even got to talk to the Grascals and got their autographs. It was truthfully a wonderful evening. I Love that Dolly is touring again and I just hope that her lipsyncing doesn't stop people from going to the concert. She can really entertain very well!
Amanda
Kent, Ohio

Oct. 20, 2004
Hi there, I just wanted to take a moment and address the issue of Dolly lip-synching. I have attended a few concerts over the past 3 years, some large and some small. I have definitely noticed a large number of performers using this new technology to easier perform more of their catalogue of songs and to enhance entertainment value just as Dolly stated. In reference to a few people saying Dolly was "bad" at lip-synching, I would say that her being "bad" at it just goes to show you that she is NOT used to it and in fact is used to years of singing live. Yes it is slightly disappointing to see a performer that you KNOW can sing use this technology but like Dolly said, it is just for entertainment value. I recently caught the Atlanta show and until I read the comments on here, I didn't even think about her lip-synching. I enjoyed the show immensely and wish I could see more of the tour but since I am in college funds are low! I have seen many artists who are huge in their own right like Mariah Carey (who I saw last August) and Cher (2 years ago) use backing vocals to enhance their performance. I would like to think that we as fans could be grateful these people are still willing to go on tour and release albums for us especially since in Dolly's case she could easily retire and never sing again. I for one didn't care and I hope it won't discourage anyone from catching this AMAZING woman on tour! Thank you :)
Chloe Sampson
Atlanta, Ga.

Oct. 20, 2004
comment_: Hello, I have to say that I am EXTREMELY disappointed to learn that Dolly is lip-syching even portions of the show. I have waited for over 20 years to see Dolly live, ever since I saw the "Dolly In London" video. Although I will be seeing her in person it's not the same. I'm not telling the people I'm going with about this, most likely they wouldn't go if they knew this to be the case. I can understand using pre-recorded backing vocals or the chior on "Hello God" but for any of her lead vocals to be pre-recorded is wrong. One of the reasons I have no respect for the teeny bopper stars of today is that they all lip-synch because they don't have the lungs or talent to pull off a live show. If I'd known this before getting tickets, I probably wouldn't have gotten them. In my book there is no reason whatsoever for a singer of Dolly's caliber to resort to pre-recorded vocals. If it's because the songs are too difficult to sing or they sound better this way, then don't do those songs. Why not just take it one step further and put a really good impersonator on stage and don't bother touring at all? I know this sounds very bitter but after waiting 20 some odd years to see her live, this is a major letdown. Maybe after seeing the show I'll change my opinion, but right now I don't really care if I go or not.
Al Chapman
Stafford Springs, Conn.

Oct. 20, 2004
Hi Duane, Could you please post the entire letter from Dolly on your site? You cut and pasted it in a way that it was hard to see any emotion she might have conveyed. I would like to know if she was upset or just simply answering the question.
Louise Jackson
Marietta, Ga.
Dolly's full comments were: "Yes, there are portions of the songs in the show that are pre-recorded. I tell you that at the beginning of the show when I say, 'If you notice some enhancement or doctoring in the show, it's not to fool or trick anyone. It's an effort to entertain by being able to have a bigger production and, hopefully, a better sound.' I will not say where or when or which ones, but just know that it's all Dolly, by golly. Just enjoy it. I'm doing it for you."

Oct. 20, 2004
i was wondering if you could tell us the names of dolly's band besides richard dennison and the grascals.i was just wondering if dolly had the same members as she did a few yrs ago.looking forward to the shows next month.thanks ps this is the most informative dolly site i have found and love the daily updates.
Brownie
Pocono, Penn.
Dolly's band members are The Grascals (Jamie Johnson, Danny Roberts, David Talbot, Jimmy Mattingly, Terry Smith and Terry Eldridge) plus Richard Dennison on keyboards, Andy Hall on dobro, Kent Wells on guitar and Chuck Tilley on drums. Of course, Richard has been with Dolly for decades and was in The Blueniques for her 2002 tour, and Kent (also member of her Blueniques) has also been with her a good, long while. Of The Grascals, both Jimmy Mattingly and Terry Eldridge were members of the Blueniques as well.

Oct. 19, 2004
Went to Dolly's show in both Greenville and Atlanta. Sorry, but she's ABSOLUTELY lipsynching the entire shows!! The only part she did not lipsync is LITTLE SPARROW in Greenville (which she had cut from the Atlanta show). I don't know how some people could say that she's not lipsynching, it was INCREDIBLY obvious. Especially when she's projected close-up on two large video screens on the side. NO, it's not some technical delay that causes her to appear out of sync on the video..when she gets her mouth movements right, she's in sync just fine, but when she gets it wrong (which was frequently) it's terrible. Many times you'd hear her start singing and she'd forget to even open her mouth. She did not lipsynch her between-song talking to the audience, but all of her dialog when she talks DURING a song is pre-recorded. For instance she yells something like "Go, Jimmy Go" while Jimmy played the fiddle on THANK GOD I'M A COUNTRY GIRL, and once again Dolly missed the cue and managed to "yell" without opening her mouth. When she almost fell off her shoe in atlanta, of course she didn't miss a beat!..she's pre-recorded!!! She quickly turned her head away from the audience though,so nobody could see her actual facial expression! Good thing she didn't really fall, or she would have been lying face down on the stage while her vocals continued flawlessly. I found the lipsynched performance very distracting. From the first row center of the balcony I had a clear view of both the stage, and the side screens and I found myself drawn to watching the video screens more often than the stage so that I could see how badly she was screwing up. Perhaps it just isn't obvious from the floor, and if that's the case, Dolly should lose the big side screens that project her image if she wants to pull off lipsynching. She made the comment about "production enhancements" in Atlanta too, but that's not enhancement, it's a faked performance. I was embarrassed for her and cringed with every word she missed. I'm glad I only bought tickets for two shows and did not spend any more money to see this tour again. At least when she was only playing Dollywood once a year, she would actually sing.
Jason
Atlanta, Ga.
Thank you, Jason, for sharing your opinions. If you read the news page report this evening, Dolly responds to the fan complaints, saying that only part of the songs are pre-recorded, so some are performed live.

Oct. 19, 2004
I just wanted to reply to Shane that stated folks at the Greenville show must have been drunk to think Dolly was not actually singing, I do not drink, and I assure you Shane she was not actually singing, I was on the third row center, and could clearly see her. I go and support a LOT of live music , and I have seen artist sing their heart out on stage even while they are changing a broken guitar string. I find it very dishearting to see a artist of her calibur lip-syncing. If that was the type show she wanted to do fine, but she should have warned her fans before tickets ever went on sale. And I definetely would not have wasted my hard earned money!
Deborah
Moore, S.C.
Again, I respect your opinion, Deborah, but Dolly says that at least a portion of her concerts on this tour is sung live.

Oct. 18, 2004
Hello Duane! Just wanted to say the website is still wonderful!! You do such a great job covering Dolly's career! Keep up the good work!
Robert Rowland
Augusta, Ark.
Thanks so much, Robert!

Oct. 18, 2004
I saw Dolly last night also. I was on the 5th row and got some great pics, I hope. She definitelt was on tape most of the show. My partner and I could see when she wasoff track a few times.The songs she chose to do were great. Wish she had sang more complete versions of them along with a few more like "Halos and Horns", "Dagger Thru My Heart", and "If".Maybe a medley of her hits with Porter would've been fun.I thought she looked fantastic. Such a tiny thing. I saw her 24 yrs ago when I was 16, right before "9-5" came out. I think we both have aged well.
Tim
Greenville, S.C.
Tim, thanks for your letter.

Oct. 18, 2004
Dear Mr. Gordon: Regarding Dolly's Toronto concerts, Oct 22-24 at Casino Rama; Do you know if she will be making any public appearances at record stores or Walmart for autograph sessions to promote her Many products? Also, ticket sales for this gig have been estimated at over $600,000, which is obviously very significant: She could have played at Any venue in Toronto! This is a great success for her; But how remarkable is it in your opinion??
Dominic Darrah
Toronto
Ontario, Canada
She sure has shown great success, with three sold-out shows at the casino. As of now, no public appearances have been announced for the Toronto area. If any are, rest assured they will be noted on the Dollymania news page.

Oct. 18, 2004
Dear webmaster, I was at the Oct. 14th show in Greenville, SC. It was fantastic. I'm only 24 years old and it was a dream come true of mine to see her live. And to the ones that thought she wasn't sining you must have been drunk cause she really was singing. Guess you had to be up front to notice that she wasn't. 13th row baby LOL.
Shane Hudgins
Rutherfordton, N.C.
Thanks for sharing your opinion, Shane. There seems to be a disagreement among fans of whether she lip-synched or not, and if so, what percentage was pre-recorded.

Oct. 18, 2004
I am excited to go see Dolly again in concert. I am going to her Anaheim, and Seattle. Any word on the Dolly tour items available at the concert? Official T-Shirts? Key Chains, Photo Concert Programs, etc. Many thanks!
John J. Osborn
Beverly Hills, Calif.
There are tons of items for sale. Several t-shirts, including Dolly with an American flag background and all of the cities listed on the back of a white shirt or Dolly with her name and image against an artistic butterfly background with the list of cities on the back of a black shirt in addition to a few "Dolly" signature logo shirts and a couple of other shirts with her picture on them -- most shirts are $30 each; tour programs, with lots of great new and old photos, at $30 each; bunny rabbit stuffed animals with little "Dolly Parton 2004" t-shirts on them; autographed photos with The Grascals for $5; refrigerator magnets, caps, visors and more.

Oct. 18, 2004
Hey Duane, I have just returned from Atlanta from Dolly's concert and it was fabulous! To address any concerns about lipsynching; Dolly plainly stated in the beginning of this concert that her show is 'enhanced' for the enjoyment of the audience, including additional vocals, background music, the choir that does not exist,etc. I feel this is no way took away from the show that was presented before us. She was the lady that we all expect of her. The most professional and entertaining as possible. A short story: While Dolly was doing a number, she went to step backwards and her heel caught what appeared to be tape on the floor and her pump went sideways down on the floor. She never missed a beat and simply put her hand out to one of the band members, who obliged, and she was able to straighten her pump problem and continue without missing a beat! Now that is our girl!! I have pics to share with you later!
James
Lehigh Acres, Fla.
Thanks for your input! And we'll all look forward to the pics!

Oct. 18, 2004
Hi Duane, I saw that you were going to start a vault store and I was wondering if you had a copy od the trio cd single feels like home or a copy of the honky tonk angles cd single silver threads and golden needles that you either wanted to trade or sell? Also do you know if there is any truth to "son of a preacher man" ever being released on any cd? By the way I love your site keeep up the good work.
Bobby Stone
Atlanta, Ga.
Unfortunately, I do not have extra copies of either of those singles. The page, whenever I get the time to put all of the items on there, will allow readers to buy things I have collected two or more copies of. There will be a few common items, a few rare items, and a few fairly unique ones as well :) As for "Son Of A Preacherman," it was supposedly included on a European-only vinyl lp picture disc, but never a CD. I've never even seen the picture disc or known anyone who has personally seen it, so I do not believe it exists myself.

Oct. 15, 2004
I was so disappointed in Dolly's show, last night in Greenville, SC. It was nothing but a Vegas Show and to me did not honor her songs, comments she made during the show so were ironic with the performance she was doing. I would have sworn most of the show she was lip- syncing. I will never go to see her again.
Deborah
Moore, S.C.
Deborah, I'm sorry you feel that way, but thanks for expressing your thoughts.

Oct. 15, 2004
Hi Duane, I was wondering if you are going to any of Dolly's "Hello I'm Dolly" concerts. If you are are you going to take pic and give reviews? I would really like that scince I can't go to any of them. Thanks so much,
Haley (huge Dolly fan) Reynolds
Newville, Ala.
Right now, I'm only planning to attend Saturday night's show in Biloxi, and there should be a review and photos up on Sunday night. I may go to one or two more later in the year, but I haven't planned any other trips yet :) Of course, any fans who attend one of the shows may send in photos and their news from the concerts (e-mail) to be posted here!

Oct. 15, 2004
Duane I must tell you how impressed I am with your site! You have the most timely and up to date info on Dolly I think Ive ever seen! I am a true Dolly fan and enjoy the site very much. Please keep up the good work! By the way I am going to the Atlanta show tomorrow. Cant wait!!!! Thanks again
Kelly
Kennesaw, Ga.
Thanks so much for your kind letter!

Oct. 15, 2004
hi, i was wondering if you can help me? what dolly song has the line "i changed so many diapers i got diper rash on my hands" or if it is not dolly do you who it is and what the song title is? thanks.
Bobby
Lansing, Mich.
The song is "Washday Blues" from the 1972 album Dolly Parton Sings My Favorite Songwriter: Porter Wagoner. The line is something like: "I've washed so many diapers I got diaper rash on my hands." The song was a No. 20 country single for Dolly that year.

Oct. 14, 2004
comment_: HOi Mijn naam is Huub Knubben, ik woon in Nederland, Hemel 47 5721 HE te Asten. ik zoek de film van Dolly Parton in London Engeland 2003/2004 wie heeft die voor mij. verder is echt alles welkom van Dolly Parton bij mij wat je kwijt wil wil ik wel hebben. stuur maar naar mijn adres.groetjes
Huub Knubben
Asten, The Netherlands
Okay, I don't speak Dutch, so I don't know how to respond. If a reader out there can translate, please help!

Oct. 14, 2004
Please can somebody help me. Many years ago, Dolly did a christmas special called "Once upon a Christmas" with Kenny Rogers. I have managed to purchase this on CD however, I would love to own this on Video or DVD as my original recording taken from the TV back in the 80's is dying. Have you any idea where in the world I may be able to by this? Many thanks x
Miss Michelle Snowdon
Swanage, Dorset, U.K.
Unfortunately, that special has never been released commercially on video or DVD, so there is no place you may legally buy it. However, thousands of fans have recorded it off of television, and for many years they have traded copies of the special among themselves. So that's probably the only way to get a copy.

Oct. 13, 2004
Looking forward to Dolly's concert at Mohegan Sun in CT!!! Do you know if she will be doing any public signings before or after the concert? I love your site! Thanks!
Lisa
Cheshire, Conn.
As of now, no public appearances have been announced for before or after the show. She usually does not do any signings at her concerts, but she sometimes does meet-and-greets for a very select audience -- mostly radio big-wigs, contest winners, and charity auction winners.

Oct. 13, 2004
Duane, Do you know what the rules are for cameras at the concerts? I don't see anything on my tickets for the Fox Theater in Atlanta? Thanks buddy!
James
Lehigh Acres, Fla.
You will need to contact the venue directly with that question, and re-verify it the day of the concert. Some venues allow photography if the artist's road manager says it's okay (although they sometimes don't know the answer to that until the day of the show) while other venues prohibit photography regardless of the artist's wishes.

Oct. 12, 2004
Hi Duane I was just wondering if you had any information on how long the "Hello I'm Dolly" concerts are going to be. I mean the longer the better I mean it would be great if it went on forever but that would be impossible. Well thank you very much for everything you do!!
Amanda Amon
Kent, Ohio
What I've seen so far is that the show is being advertised by some venues as "approximately three hours." That likely means a 30-45 minute opening act for The Grascals, a 15-20 minute intermission, then Dolly's show probably running somewhere around two hours, but nothing "official" has come out about that. I guess we'll find out after Thursday, when the tour opens in South Carolina!

Oct. 12, 2004
I'm getting a little desperate. I can't for the life of me find the presale code for the state college , pa show. The presale is supposed to start at 10am 10/11/2004. HELP!!!!
Jennifer
Rochester, N.Y.
Unfortunately, Ticketmaster has not identified who is running its pre-sale for her State College, Penn., show (it's usually a local radio station or a club at the venue where the performance is taking place), so I cannot tell you where to get the code. However, they only take a portion of the seats and set them aside for the pre-sale, which means if they go on the Dolly fan pre-sale on Wednesday as I expect they will, you'd have the same chances to get just as good of seats that way as you would through the Ticketmaster pre-sale. Even if you waited until the regular Ticketmaster sale, chances are you would still get great seats (maybe just three or four rows further back than if you bought them through the pre-sales). Note: After this letter was originally received, it was discovered that the code is "Dollywood." Thanks!

Oct. 12, 2004
Hey Duane, When getting pre-sale tix through your site, will the automated system automatically give me the best floor seats? Or when the pre-sales are going through ticketmaster, do I call them and talk to a live person? How would you go about getting the best floor seats? I'm waiting for tickets to San Antonio, Texas. Also, do you think it's likely that Dolly will do signings for "Blue Smoke?" The reason I ask is that I was unable to get from Texas to the "Live and Well" signings, but am going for sure to the very next one no matter how far! I've been waiting 26 years to meet her up close and have my picture taken with her. Thanks for all you do,
Lory
Texas
Yes, if you log in and get tickets through the fan pre-sales from the site, they should automatically give you the best available seat at that time. Now, they do require you create an account to order tickets, so it would be advisable to go ahead and do that in advance so you don't have to waste time doing that when you're trying to get tickets. My understanding is that all final details for the San Antonio show have yet to be worked out, but they expect it all to be tied up soon so that an on-sale date for tickets may be announced. Ticketmaster pre-sales operate the same way as the fan pre-sales, except they're handled through Ticketmaster's Web site instead of Music Today's Web site. You don't call in for the Ticketmaster ones either -- you have to have a code from whatever group is running the pre-sale and enter it online. For the fan pre-sales, you just visit the site, create a username and password, and enter those (no additional special codes required). As for a CD signing, she hasn't indicated if she will or not, but she's been doing them for most of her new releases in recent years (except "For God And Country"), so I think it's certainly a strong possibility she may do a handful when "Blue Smoke" comes out sometime next year.

Oct. 11, 2004
My friend has just told me about your website and i am impressed you seem to know so much about Dolly. I have been a fan since she appeared on a tv show in England when i was 17 i am now 42 and she gets better and better. I have been to Dollywood twice and the last time Dceember 2003 saw her Christmas concert which was great. I also like her religous songs as well as the other great songs she does. She has a lot of fans in the UK and I hope she comes back a bit sooner than last time. Now i have found your website you will keep me upto date on the concert details and much moore. I would like to get a signed photo of Dolly if you know where i can get one. I did purchase one of ebay but it never came that was a disappointment. Thank you
Sylvia Smith
England
Thank you so much for your letter and your kind words. Keep coming back! As for a photo, she doesn't do many public signings (when her new CD came out last month, she did four public signings, her first in a couple of years), but probably your best bet in getting one would be to have a friend attend one and get an autograph for you. I've never trusted those autographed photos off of eBay.

Oct. 11, 2004
hi to all dolly fans help can you buy Dolly Parton & Kenny Rogers Once upon a Chiristmas on d.v.d anywere
Angie
Reepham, England
Unfortunately, the special has never been released on video or DVD commercially where one could legally buy it. However, for many years fans have traded and sold pirated copies of the special on VHS and DVD among themselves, so you may be able to locate one that way.

Oct. 9, 2004
I really like this website, it is the best Dolly website yet. I am fortunate enough to be attending her concert and I am so excited. I think she is the greatest and I have been waiting to see her in concert for years. Finally she will be touring close enough to home for me to attend. I really commend the writer of this website for the wonderful job that he/she has done. I will defenately be checking up on this site again in the future. Thanx
Pam
Fremont, Neb.
Thanks so much!

Oct. 8, 2004
Hi Duane, I know I just sent you an email last week...but this was to good not to share. I was in Huntsville, AL this week for work and got together with some good friends for dinner. Well, right before our meals came my friend Jan hands me a gift bag and says here is something special for you. I opened the bag and almost swallowed theh table cloth when I saw what was inside. It was an authographed Live and Well DVD. Jan stood in line at the Wal-Mart signing a few weeks back to take care of her good buddie in PA. Needless to say I am thrilled. Jan is a true friend. I will make her a Dolly fan yet. Take care, Lemar
Sheaffer, Penn.
Thanks for sharing. What a cute story! Isn't it great to have such good friends!

Oct. 6, 2004
Hey Duane! I love your site! It is always updated everyday and that's exactly what I like to see. I was just wondering if you had any news on whether Dolly tickets for her Nov. 21st show at State College, PA would be joining the pre-sale list? I am so anxious to get tickets, any info would be great! Thanks!
Jennifer Bailey
Rochester, N.Y.
Thanks, Jennifer. The State College show is scheduled for regular sales via Ticketmaster on Oct. 16. No official announcement of any pre-sales has been made, so I'd check back between now and Oct. 16 to see if there's been any change.

Oct. 6, 2004
Hi, I would love to know if and when Dolly will come to Ireland - I am a great fan and would love to see her? Thanks
Charmaine Moore
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Unofficial word has it that Dolly is considering a European concert tour sometime next year, which would likely include a return to Northern Ireland (she played Belfast in 2002). However, nothing has been finalized yet. As soon as any news is available, rest assured it will be reported on the Dollymania news page.

Oct. 6, 2004
Hello everyone. I am a big fan of dolly.
Mary-Beth
Ballarat, Victoria, Australia
Thanks for your letter, Mary-Beth. Good to know she has fans Down Under!

Oct. 5, 2004
Hello, I just want to thank you guys for the site. The reason for this is because of your site I was able to find out about the Dolly tour long before it was announced in local papers. I was able to get tickets to go to her show as well. I've been a Dolly fan for years, going back to when I was about nine or ten I guess, I know it was prior to 1982 cuz I was too little to go see "Whorehouse". Anyway my dad had the "Here You Come Again" and "Best Of Dolly Parton" albums and I loved hearing her sing her stories. That's the main thing about her songs that I've always loved was the stories she tells. I always wanted to see her in concert but figured it would never happen as she doesn't tour that much. When she skipped the area on her "Halo's & Horns" tour, I knew it was unlikely that she'd ever come around this way. Well she is FINALLY coming to CT, and I will finally get to see her in person. I just want to say thanks, you guys do a great job!!
Al Chapman
Stafford Springs, Conn.
Glad you were able to get tickets for her casino show there in Connecticut. As a longtime fan, I know you'll love it and can tell you that seeing her live for the first time is an experience each fan remembers for a lifetime :)

Oct. 2, 2004
Hello! When I met Dolly in 2002 for her Halos & Horns CD signing, she smelled of a Vanilla Musk, and seemed to be quite strong. I was wondering if you (or any of the other fans reading this) knew what perfume she usually wears. They say a scent brings back a memory! Many thanks,
John
Beverly Hills, Calif.
Her favorite scent is Intrigue by Mary Kay, which has a spicy, vanilla scent. It was discontinued many years ago, but Dolly supposedly bought up a ton of it when it went off the shelves, so that may have been what you smelled.

Oct. 2, 2004
Duane, I finally got to meet Dolly in person @ the Walmart signing in Huntsville. She is such a beautiful lady. Our two daughters were named with her in mind, (Jenny Rebecca-28 & Jolene Dixie-21). So you see we have been fans of hers forever. Heck the first ten years of our marriage we had a poster of Dolly in our bedroom and I would love to find another like it. It was Dolly in blue jeans and a red tied up shirt and heels (of course) if you know where I might can find one please let me know.
Gina Dean
Lacey's Spring, Ala.
So glad you got to meet Dolly. It is always a very special experience for every fan who gets the opportunity. As for the poster, given the ages of your children, I assume you got the poster around 1975 or so. Its description sounds like the one that came with the LP of Best Of Dolly Parton that year (so its size was roughly as wide as an album cover and twice as tall as an album cover). It had her wearing the same red shirt as on the album cover. I'd have to go find mine and look at it, but I don't recall her heels being visible in it, but it's been a while since I've looked at it so I may be mistaken :) The poster shows up every once in a while on ebay, but the album with the poster included shows up more often, although both are fairly rare. Also, if you'd like, I could post your request on the site's Collectors' Connection page to see if anyone can get one to you. Just let me know!

Oct. 2, 2004
What a great site. I just found it! I will be back many times. I was wondering if you might have the presale code for Dolly's concert in Phoenix on 12/8 at the Dodge Theatre? If you do, I would really appreciate it, as my daughter and I would both love to go. Thanks so much and keep up the great work on the site.
Paula
Phoenix, Ariz.
Thanks, Paula! Glad you found the site. Unfortunately, no, I don't have the password to give you. The pre-sale is being run through Phoenix's Downtown Live for its subscribers. If you'd like to join them, information is available at here. However, some of these clubs will not provide passwords for people who join after the password has been given out, so you might not be able to get it. The link to join so you could get the password was published on the site's news page a couple of times in the past two weeks so interested fans could get in on the pre-sale. Even if you don't get the pre-sale, you can probably still get tickets when they go on sale to the general public on Oct. 16. That show has yet to be added to the Dolly fan pre-sale here, but check back on Wednesday to see if it's available there. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.

Oct. 1, 2004
Duane, I have only written to you once before in all these years, but after reading your recap of Dollywood, Dolly, and Dolly's Concerts, this past weekend, and seeing your wonderful pics of her, I had to once again email you. I want to say THANKS on behalf of all the Fans out here, who truly appreciate all the hard work that you put into your web-site. Keep up the Great work.
Keith
Alabama
PS Directv is Running the DOLLY LIVE AND WELL Concert on Ch 103.
Keith, thanks so much for your kind words and thanks for the heads-up on the DirecTV airings!

Oct. 1, 2004
I have been to Dolly Wood twice and planing on Oct.12 or 13 2004 going back with my Granddaughter. Dolly Wood the only place she has asked to go to.Dolly Wood is a great place to go to for the price and all the great entertainment.Looking forward going back. I;ll never get tired of Dolly Wood.thanks Dolly for a great place to vaction.
Joann Killingsworth
Monticello, Miss.
It certainly is a wonderful place. I go three or four times a year myself! And it's also always a great thrill to receive a letter from someone just down the road :)

Oct. 1, 2004
Hey Duane, it is me again! I was wonderinmg if you knew what house the photographes of Dolly were taking at on her LittlE Sparrow CD?
Justin Davis
Symsonia, Ky.
Actually, I don't know for sure, although I believe it was just a house they found to stage the photos in instead of one actually connected with Dolly.

Oct. 1, 2004
Duane, Thanks so much for the pre-sale information on the 20 Nov concert in Reading, PA. I got my tickets today. We are are in the middle section 13 rows back end seats. Sounds pretty good to me. What do you think? (smile) I cannot wait. We were in NYC for the start of Dolly's Halos and Horns tour a few years back and had a great time. Needless to say I love the new Live and Well CD. All I have to do is close my eyes and I am back at Irving Plaza for opening night. I am hoping the venue for the Hello I'm Dolly tour allows pictures....but I bet they don't....that was my only disappointment about NYC. I know Dolly says in her book she never wants the flashes to stop so I guess the no camera thing is the rule of the venues not Dolly. Again thanks for the pre-sale info and a great website. I visit everyday.
Lemar Sheaffer
New Cumberland, Penn.
Congratulations on the great seats! I'm glad to pass along the information to other Dolly fans on the pre-sales, and I can't wait for her show here in Mississippi that I'm attending! As far as cameras, Dolly traditionally has no objections to it, so any prohibitions are almost always the policies of the venues themselves and not Dolly's, although some of them claim that the order comes from Dolly or her management, it doesn't. I've even seen her at concerts tell security to stop bothering people who walk up the isle to take a picture because all they want is a photo, and then she poses for them. Hopefully, she'll get the word out to each venue to allow pictures during the shows.

Sept. 30, 2004
Duane, it's me again. I'm sure you're cringing. You know I love this site. But you gotta help me out. I hate to be the one to stir up trouble here. But does anybody want to talk about the fact that Dolly appears to be lip-synching "Stairway to Heaven" on the new DVD? Maybe this should be a conversation we have in the chat room. But the song starts off with her and the band playing live. And then it goes to a recorded version, which features the choir. Then at the end of the song, she reverts to a live vocal for the final line. I haven't heard the CD yet, but on the DVD, it's pretty obvious. Dolly is a terrible lip-syncher, as anyone knows who remembers "Put a Little Love in Your Heart" from the 93 CMAs. This being a fan site (and I am a HUGE fan), I guess most of your readers will come to her defense and say it's the editing, or that everybody else does it, so why not Dolly, or some other such nonsense. Next, they'll try to tell us she's really playing the harmonica and the pennywhistle too. No way, absolutely not. Let's just admit it, say all these things have been faked, and discuss it. If you sincerely think I'm wrong, please tell me why. I'm trying to get some verification from anyone "in the loop." But two questions: why hasn't anyone brought this up yet? (I've read all the reviews I can find--either everyone's been fooled, or people are just being quiet.) And most importantly of all--why was it necessary for Dolly to do this in the first place? It really ruins an otherwise excellent show--at least for me it does. Yours truly, a most puzzled fan
Michael
New York, N.Y.
Yes, I do believe Dolly lipsynched "Stairway To Heaven" from the verse beginning "If there's a bustle in your headrobe" until just before she sings the final line of the song. It's pretty obvious to anyone watching it. But I don't believe it detracts or distracts most viewers, which is why it hasn't been mentioned in most reviews. And, yes, most singers do lipsynch at least one or two numbers in concert, usually if the song is fairly difficult or there aren't the right musicians or choirs available to be on stage (and, remember, that ALL performances of the national anthem at the Super Bowl are lipsynched, under NFL policy, to ensure they're not screwed up since it's such a difficult song for most singers). I'm told that the reasons for Dolly choosing to lipsynch that particular number were the same: It's a fairly difficult song vocally and they didn't have a choir to perform the background vocals with her, so they "canned" that portion. Dolly doesn't lipsynch often, because you can always tell, but when she does there is usually a reason. When she lipsynched at the CMAs, it was because her voice went out, so she couldn't sing. When she lipsynched one line at the Grammys, it was because she was required to sing an abbreviated version of her song, and it started in an odd place, so she had the first line "canned" to ensure she started in the correct place. It probably would have been easier and more "realistic" to simply cut the song from the concert, but fans who loved hearing it on the album wanted to see her perform it live, and I don't think most of them really cared that part of the song wasn't actually live.

Sept. 30, 2004
Thank you for such a great web site. It is the premier site for Dolly information. While at Dollywood over the weekend there were some things I noticed about the press and secutiry. Many of those blocking the view on the "press stand" were nothing more than Dolly chasers like myself. How in the world did they pull off a press pass? It's obvious they aren't checking the backgrounds of some of the people. Another thing with the Dollywood appearances is security. It is unnerving to see the Barney Fife force that supposedly protects Dolly at the park.
Jerrold
Johnson City, Tenn.
My understanding is that most of those fans either work for a media outlet or have convinced one of their local radio stations or newspapers or whatever to allow them to attend representing that media outlet to cover the events for them. The park had cracked down on them toward the end of last year and earlier this year, dramatically cutting the number of them it would allow media credentials, but it appears they're letting many of those back in who are there as fans rather than reporters. As for security, she keeps so many people around her, I can't see anybody getting away with trying to do any harm to her. I'm not familiar with the backgrounds of the park's uniformed guards, but I'm sure they're trained in security tactics and are probably mostly former police officers or deputies.

Sept. 29, 2004
Hello Duane, I was fourtunate enough to get to meet with Dolly at the Evansville CD singing, I was second in line behind Joey Wilies which you may know. She was great, I had about 2-3 minutes to talk with her and get photos with her (which I sent you by mail to put on the site) You really have a great site, I absouletly love it, since I found out about it There has been only very few days that I have been without it. I talked to you at the Dolly Parade though piegion forge in 2004, and I asked you if there was a way that you might be able to get me in to meet her, You might remver me, I dont know, but i am 14 years old. I am also wondering two things. 1)Does Dolly give tours of her house such as stars like Loretta Lynn? 2)You may not know this but how come she dosent take time to sign some autographs after appearences like most country superstars that I have had time to meet? But Keep up the great work, your site is the best in my opionion. THanks,
Justin Davis
Symsonia, Kenn.
Yes, I do remember you! When I saw your photo in one of the Evansville papers, I thought you looked familiar. I remember when I met you at the parade my first thought was that you seemed a little young to be such a serious parade chaser, but it reminded me of what a serious Dolly fan I was at that age, too :) Your photos from the signing arrived in the mail this week, and I scanned them in and got them posted here. To answer your questions: No, Dolly does not open her house to tours. However, sometimes when she is home, she will walk outside and wave at the buses that come by on the street carrying tourists on driving tours of the stars home. I don't think she's ever discussed why she no longer does autograph signings after shows. My guess is it's probably mostly time. When she was younger and trying to become a superstar, she'd stay after concerts until every single person who wanted an autograph got one. Of course, entertainers starting out do not have the same degree of demands on their time as established stars do, so she had more free time to do it back then. In addition, since she hates to fly, she traditionally drives from show to show, which takes longer. So she usually stays on her bus resting until time to go on stage, rushes into the building, performs, and rushes out. Sometimes she'll stop for a few seconds to sign an autograph or two on her way out of a building, but it's rare. Also, she lessened her public appearances back in the 1980s when she received some death threats, so security may also be a factor. Today, whenever she appears anywhere it's highly organized and orchestrated, with armed guards and all, like the Wal-Mart CD signings.

Sept. 29, 2004
Does anyone know if we are suppose to dress in costume for the concert on Halloween?
Mary Roux
DeSoto, Mo.
Nothing's been said about that :) Although I don't think they'll require anyone to be in costume, I don't think they'd turn you away for wearing one (at least as long as it's not obscene and won't block the view of other concert-goers). ADDITION: A reader from St. Louis who will be attending the Halloween show wrote in later and said she contacted the venue and was told that while costumes are not required, fans may wear them if they choose. You are asked, however, not to wear masks. Thanks!

Sept. 28, 2004
Well Hello fellow Dolly fans. I havea been a fan since the early 80's . I went to walmart in Evansville to try and see her and get an autograph but i was the 304 person in line. Didnt get one but i did get some really great photos of her while signing the Live and Well cd. Great photos. Dolly needs to visit the tristate area agian but she needs to stay longer. Dolly looked liek and angel sept. 18 and i have to say her boobs are not that big . Dolly i hope one day to get tto go to Dollywood. And until then Dolly be like Madonna Strike Apose. Love you Indiana Fan Mlo
Michael Lamar
Newburgh, Ind.
Sorry you didn't get to meet her, but at least you got some photos! And best of luck on making it to Dollywood someday -- truly the "happiest place on earth."

Sept. 27, 2004
Hello and I just want to say "Thank You" for such a wonderful in-depth web site on Dolly! I have come to depend on this site very much. I have been a True Dedicated Fan of Dolly since 1980 although I do remember her from the early 70's with Porter and her TV Show "Dolly" But a true dream came true of mine when I got to meet and have my picture made with this wonderful lady on Sept. 18, 2004 at the Evansville CD and DVD Signing. I told Dolly I had been waiting for this moment for 24 years! I felt so comfortable talking to her just like we knew each other. I also mentioned that I shared something with Her and Carl (her husband). I was born on their wedding day and therefore she knew how old I was! She found this very interesting and amusing! I have been on Cloud 9 ever since and have showed my pictures with her to everyone I can. Then I had the privalage to visit Dollywood on Sept. 25, 2004 and got to see her ride thru the park on a small car and I hollered out to her and said "Hey Dolly, Do you remember me from Indiana last Sat.?" She replied back saying "Oh yes...I sure do remember You!" This made my day! Then I got to see her perform in the 2:00pm Benefit Concert that day and as usual she out did herself as always. She gave the best introduction to "Coat of Many Colors" that I have ever heard and had tears in my eyes. That is my favorite song of all time due to the message. These last two weeks has been a "Dolly Explosion" for me and the best is yet to come....I now have tickets to her concert in Columbus, OH in Oct. for floor seats, 5 rows from the stage! I can't wait! I love this lady for the inspiration and joy she brings to my life and Thank God that he has given her the talent to do so and that she is using it.
Darrick Beekman
Waverly, Ohio
No, Darrick, thank you for your readership. It sounds like you had a great time and a very exciting past couple of weeks! I'm so glad you got to meet Dolly and see her again this weekend. I'm sure you'll have a blast at the show next month, too!

Sept. 23, 2004
I just wanted to say a quick thank you for your incredible site (and I really like the new layout too). My partner told me on September 14 that Dolly was coming to St. Louis for a concert on Halloween, and I checked your site to confirm. Not only was that true, but I also discovered that Dolly was coming to Evansville, IN for a CD signing. My partner and I drove to Evansville and got to meet Dolly and have the items we brought with us signed by her. Thank you so much for your dedication to news about Dolly, otherwise, I would have had no idea about the CD signing. A life-long dream of meeting Dolly has come true, thanks to you. I cannot express enough how grateful my partner and I are to you. Dolly was as sweet and friendly to us as she always seems to be, and that was very refreshing given how many celebrities truly act. She is one classy lady! Thank you again for providing the information to allow us to meet Dolly. I'm still in awe four days later.
Mike Justice
St. Louis, Mo.
Thanks for your letter. I'm so glad you were able to meet Dolly. It certainly is a wonderful experience. And I know you'll love the concert!

Sept. 23, 2004
Dear Duane, I am the mother of a 9 year old girl that loves Dolly's music. She has one of the greatest hits CD's she listens to all the time. She has written a letter to Dolly and I would like to share that with you here. I would like to mail it, but am afraid it would get lost in all the mail Dolly receives. I am planning on taking her to the concert on Greenville, SC on October 14 so she can see Dolly live for the first time. So here it goes verbatium:
Dolly Parton
I (heart) songes 13,12,11,10,7,6,5,4,3,2,1,15,20. I (heart) them all. I'm your biggest fan. I (heart) u and your songs. I (heart) them all.
Love,
XXXXXX Morgan
Wendi Morgan
Marietta, S.C.
How cute! While I cannot guarantee Dolly will see your daughter's letter, I can post it on the site and hopefully she will :)

Sept. 23, 2004
I really like the new look of your website. Awesome!! I wonder what Dolly thinks of it, if she has seen it? Looking forward to seeing Dolly in concert in Sacramento (Dec. 12th). Dolly is the best always!!
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
Thanks. Glad you like the revised look. I haven't heard from Dolly on whether she's seen it, but I hope she'd like it!

Sept. 22,2004
Duane, great job on all the info on Dolly keep up the good work. I would love to see more magazines print info on her and if you know of any put it on your website like always. Thanks!
Kim Stover
Thanks so much. I'd love to see her in more magazines, too, although Country Weekly seems to be doing a great job with at least a mention or photo in almost every issue!

Sept. 22, 2004
hey daune! i love the new layout of the site! it is awesome. i have dolly manie set as my home page so everytime i sign on there she is..also so i know when tickets are going to be going on for my area! thanks so much for the great work and all the effort you put into this site, and for always answering my emails and questions. i vote everyday for your site in the a.m. when i wake up in the mornging. again thanks,
Brendan O'Neal
New York, N.Y.
Thanks, Brendan. For other New York-area fans out there who may not have caught it on the news page, the only scheduled Dolly concert near you is the one in East Rutherford, N.J., on Nov. 11, and tickets for that show went on sale through Ticketmaster this past weekend. Since the Meadowlands is being set up in a "theatre" style seating instead of arena, the floor area is very small and sold out on Saturday, but there were still plenty of tickets available this week in the raised seating areas.

Sept. 22, 2004
I am planning on attending Dolly's Concert Tour in Dallas, Texas on December 3, 2004. I would really, really, love to meet Dolly. I am 29 years old and I have been her biggest fan for I know 20 plus years. I want to be just like Dolly, the way she views life and how happy she always is. All I have ever wanted to do is to meet Dolly and I hope I get a chance to at the Tour in Dallas, Texas. Biggest Dolly Fan ever,
Becky Ward
Powell, Texas
Unfortunately, Dolly usually does not do meet-and-greets with fans prior to or following her concerts, so it is highly unlikely there would be any opportunity to meet her in person when she is in Dallas later this year.

Sept. 22, 2004
I sponsor a Save the Children teen, who LOVES Dolly Parton. I would love to get her any memorabilia or an autograph or anything like that. Dolly is her hero. I want to pay for her to go to Dolly Wood, any suggestions on ticket discounts. I would be paying for 6 people in total. THANKS!
Sherry
Bainbridge, Ga.
First, kudos for sponsoring a child. It's an honorable thing to do. I'd suggest contacting Dollywood and asking if there's anything they can work out for you. I don't know if they would be willing to sell tickets at a reduced rate or not (if they don't, they might be able to arrange to get the child an autographed photo).

Sept. 22, 2004
My name is Angie and I live in Burgettstown, PA - we are about 30 mile southwest of Pittsburgh. Recently we have had a state of emergency with flooding due to Hurricane Ivan. A local radio station WDVE (rock station) is raising money for the Red Cross. The promo is pay to play. For a donation (min $25) they will play anything you want to hear. One of our fellow co-workers watched his entire house float down the river on Friday. So he will be missing work for some time. The rest of the guys in the shop are working extra hard to make up for being one short in the shop. We requested Dolly's song 9 to 5. The radio station will not play her song since we didn't donate enough money - we are raising money for our friend who lost his house. We think that is so unfair - since they are playing the BeeGees, Frank Sinatra and others. Is there anything you can think of to help us get her song on? Anyway they should be playing it since we PAID. Thank you,
Angie
Burgettstown, Penn.
Unfortunately, radio stations are known for being pretty fickle, and there isn't much listeners can do to sway them. Sorry.

Sept. 21, 2004
I have two questions. First, wheres the cheapest place to get concert tickets? I really wanna go see dolly! Secondly, where can i get the dvd for Live and Well? I looked in secveral places, but they dont have it anywhere! Thanks!
Michelle Ivey
Benton, Ark.
First, the cheapest place to get tickets is usually to go directly to the venue's box office because they sometimes charge a smaller handling fee or processing fee than Ticketmaster, but if it is any smaller then it only saves you a couple of dollars per ticket. Otherwise, it'd the same price to buy it from Ticketmaster online, the venue box office, or by calling Ticketmaster's toll-free number. It will also be the same price if you buy them through the pre-sales offered through Dollymania and a few other sites. The only places where tickets are more expensive are on ebay or those special order ticket places that try to buy up several good seats from the public sales and then sell them for several times the face value once those areas of the venue have sold out. As for the DVD, if your local mall has a video store, they probably carry it, or your local Wal-Mart. If no one has it in stock, they might have only ordered a few copies and sold out when it came out last Tuesday, so you should check back on Tuesday of this week to see if any came in. If you still have no luck, you can order it from Amazon.com here.

Sept. 21, 2004
Duane, Thank you for your dedication to this site. Had it not been for your timely reporting, I wouldn't have known early enough about Dolly coming to Omaha. I was online the morning the tickets went on sale and got seats in the 3rd row. Your labor of love on this site is phenomenal and I can't thank you enough for the work you do with it. The new looks is awesome, too!
Gary Beck
Omaha, Neb.
Thanks, Gary. I'm glad to have helped you out, and thanks for your compliments!

Sept. 21, 2004
Duane, I LOVE the new look of the website! Just don't dump some of the "stuff" in the Past Features section. I really like those last pieces on there! The site just keeps growing. Keep up the great work.
Tony
Independence, Va.
Thanks. I have no plans to get rid of any of those sections. I just moved them into that "sub-section" because listing each page separately on the main menu made the menu way too long :) But they're still there for all to enjoy!

Sept. 20, 2004
Duane, I got my tickets to see Dolly in Atlanta! I am so excited, you just don't know! I have never seen her in person. Thanks for everything! Your daily updates kept me abreast what was occurring with ticket sales! Thanks again,
James
Lehigh Acres, Fla.
Glad you got tickets, and I know you'll just love the show!

Sept. 20, 2004
My 7 year old daughter is a "huge fan" (her own words) of Dolly and has been since her preschool years. We stood in line for well over 3 hours tonight in Huntsville and did not get to meet her. During the last few minutes, they rushed people to the side in groups so she did get to catch a glimpse of her, which we appreciated! I wish I had seen your site before, to be able to prepare her for the disappointment by knowing how many usually get to meet her. It would be nice if someone had briefed the approximately 700 people who did not get to meet her before they stood in line for at least 2 hours. I am grateful to find your site so that we might here of future opportunities!
Beth
Madison, Ala.
I'm sorry you didn't get the chance to meet Dolly, but at least you got to see her briefly in person. She drew about 1,600 to her appearance outside of Nashville earlier in the week, only about 300 of whom got to meet her, so for a city of Huntsville's size, about 1,000 people lining up isn't that surprising. Unfortunately, she can only stay a certain length of time, meaning she can only see a certain number of people. Hopefully she'll visit your area again soon.

Sept. 20, 2004
HI! I am writing a story based on dollys song mountain angel which i plan to send to dolly to see if she likes it. So I am in some need of help. Its posted on the cmt dolly parton board, so if anyone would like to help they can get on there and help me and the other people there out! After we are done with it, i plan to send an email with the whole story to all who have given me there email adresses on cmt. Thanks Bunches!
Michelle Ivey
Benton, Ark.
Interesting project. If anyone's interested, you may visit CMT.com's Dolly boards here to participate.

Sept. 18, 2004
Do you know if there will be any pre-sale tickets available for the St. Louis concert? If so, How do I go about getting them? Thanks alot. You have been a great help.
Joseph
St. Louis, Mo.
Currently, no pre-sales have been announced for the St. Louis show, tickets for which go on sale to the general public on Saturday. Given it is now so close to the date that tickets go on sale, it is highly unlikely that any pre-sales will take place. However, if you are planning to attend other dates on the tour for which tickets are not scheduled to go on sale for a few more weeks, keep checking back with Dollymania for some pre-sale opportunities next week.

Sept. 17, 2004
Duane,Thank you for posting the information about the extra Dollywood tickets being for sale...I had given up on getting tickects and now I have third row tickets for the Saturday show.Thank you for keeping us Dolly fans so updated...You made my year!
Billy Christian
Barboursville, W.V.
Thanks, Billy. Glad to have helped you out. Several fans e-mailed me this week to say they got tickets for the concerts after Dollywood asked me to announce on Tuesday that some more seats had become available. I know you will all enjoy the show!

Sept. 17, 2004
Hi, I want to get presale tickets for Dolly's show at Continental Arena (Nov. 11) and am already registered with "All Access" but don't seem to be getting any emails or info from them re: presale code for that show. Can you help? Do you have any way of knowing the code to use? Thanks! Great site!
Richie Cohen
New York, N.Y.
Thanks, Richie. They have not released much information on the sale, just to say that it's the "All Access Presale," meaning it will be open only to All Access members. I'd suggest contacting the venue or the person who oversees the All Access program to check on it. If you just joined, it could be that they gave the password out several days ago.

Sept. 17, 2004
Did Dolly write the song, "Eagle When She Flies" for a special woman in her own life? I have searched the web, and I can't seem to come up with an answer.
Andrea
Merrimac, Mass.
Rather than having written the song in honor of one special woman, she wrote it to honor all of the women who have touched her life, including her mother, sisters, friends and women to whom she has looked up over the years.

Sept. 16, 2004
Does Dolly have any piercings besides ear piercings? Thank you!
~*Michelle*~
Benton, Ark.
While she has never publicly addressed the issue of piercings, when she appeared on "The Late Show With Conan O'Brien" a couple of years ago, her shirt lifted up a little during a skit with the host, exposing her belly button, which appeared to be pierced. I'm afraid that's all I know on the subject :) She does have at least two tattoos, though -- an angel on her upper left arm and a butterfly on her upper chest.

Sept. 16, 2004
Hey, Duane, Maybe I should get 2 tickets to the Las Vegas show and you could go with me...? I am single...and you?
R. McGuire
Las Vegas, Nev.
Thanks for the invite, but I'd bet my partner of nine years wouldn't take too kindly to my going with you :)

Sept. 16, 2004
Do you know who the tour manager is for the new Dolly Parton Concert Tour? I would like to find out how to get backstage passes is possible. Do you know who I would get in contact with? Thank you so much!
Miya Teague
Hickory, N.C.
Typically, Dolly doesn't issue backstage passes to her concerts, and if she did you wouldn't get to see her but a few seconds because she darts into the building just before the show starts and darts back to her tour bus as soon as it's over. I don't think it would be appropriate for me to publish the contact information for the tour publicists. However, if you look at the version of the tour press release posted on Market Wire or Yahoo's business site, you'll find their contact information.

Sept. 16, 2004
Hey Duane, I just wanted to let you know that the Gund Arena in Cleveland has finally said that Dolly is comming. Here is the website with all the information about the concert in Cleveland: http://www.gundarena.com//publish/events/event_172.html. Just thought you would like to know.
Amanda
Kent, Ohio
Thanks, Amanda. I've been e-mailing the venue for weeks seeking confirmation, and they have yet to respond.

Sept. 15, 2004
I just wanted to say Thank you for a wonderful site, and Please keep me posted on Dolly's Las Vegas tour date, from our radio station here, I have heard a conflicting November date, but I trust you, and Thanks again…
Richard McGuire
Las Vegas, Nev.
Thanks, Richard. As always, any news on the Vegas show (and all others) will certainly be posted on the news page as soon as it is available. Of course, for dates as far in advance as December, there is a chance they could change, but for now, tour managers do plan her Vegas stop to be Dec. 7. And thanks for the compliments as well!

Sept. 14, 2004
hi Duane, I wanted to say that I love your website. My question for you is do you know for sure if Dolly will be preforming in Cleveland? I have called the Gund Arena's Ticket office and they said that they had no information on a Dolly concert. I was just wondering if you knew anything about it. Thank you for all the wonderful information and time you provide.
Amanda
Kent, Ohio
Currently, there is no additional information on that concert, unfortunately. Dolly's tour promoters have officially listed it as a confirmed date on the tour, and it has been added to the tour schedule as published by Dolly's record label and PollStar. However, as with all concert tours, nothing is completely final until tickets go on sale. So until tickets are on sale, the date, city, or venue could change. Right now, her promoters do expect her to perform at that arena on Oct. 19, and that's really all I can tell you. Sorry it couldn't be more.

Sept. 14, 2004
what Dolly Pardon song has the lyrics "Heaven Let Your Light Shine Down"
Jackie Schlagel
Raymond, S.D.
The song with that line is called "Shine." Dolly recorded it on her 2001 CD Little Sparrow, winning a Grammy for Best Female Country Vocal Performance on the single the next year. The song was originally a rock hit for the band Collective Soul in 1995.

Sept. 13, 2004
To all Dolly fans, you can buy for a limited time only the Live and Well CD,DVD autographed by Dolly Parton, on www.countrystars.com, if they are sold out, you can contact them via telephone and by change get to buy you a autographed copy of Live & Well. I was one of the lucky ones to be able to purchase 14 of them. If you didn't get your autographed Live & Well feel free to contact me for I will be selling some of them.
Cnythia Martin
Chesapeake, Va.
Well, the Web site, which is operated by the cable network Great American Country, only had 25 copies to give away, and they sold out within a couple of hours of becoming available, apparently due in part to your buying more than half of them.

Sept. 11, 2004
I have a Question, my partner and I are going to the Wal-Mart signing in Evansville on the 18th, how early should we be there and do they only let a certain amount of people to see Dolly. I am so excited. Also, does she allow pictures to be taken of her and WITH her. Thanks alot.
Joseph
St. Louis, Mo.
Judging from previous signings a couple of years back, the most dedicated fans start lining up as much as 10 or 11 hours before the event begins, but people who have lined up as late as three or four hours before it starts can usually get to see her. She can usually make it through 400 or so fans in the two hours allotted for signing autographs. Any formal rules for these signings have not been announced, but usually they do allow each person who gets a CD signed to take a quick photo with Dolly. Also, even though the posted rules for previous signings prohibited fans from asking Dolly to sign anything other than copies of the specific product being promoted purchased at the store where the signing takes place, she broke the rules at those signings a couple of years ago and ended up autographing whatever fans brought her.

Sept. 10, 2004
hello, I just got all moved in to my new appartment so I haven't been on your site in 2 weeks or so....god I missed it! im so excited to here about Blue Smoke, god I can hardley wate! guss the Live and Well will have to tide me over till it comes out. anyway what I want to know is did dolly cover any rock songs on Blue Smoke? like she did with Shine on Little Sparrow or Stairway to Heaven on Halos & Horns. and do you know the track list or any songs on Blue Smoke? Thanks,
Robert Emery
Lansing, Mich.
Unfortunately, there really hasn't been any information on the possible content of the new CD released yet, so I cannot tell you what might be on it.Given her recent history, however, it certainly wouldn't surprise me if there's a country version of another rock song on there. I hope there is!

Sept. 10, 2004
Hi Duane! Just wondering if you know if there is ANY talk of Dolly Touring WESTERN Canada? How would someone go about finding that info? This show sounds absolutely AMAZING and I don't want to miss it. Although I can't afford to travel, I would pay just about anything for a concert ticket! This tour is SO exciting. Hopefully she'll have a DVD made of it as well!
James
Edmonton, Alb., Canada
There have been no indications that Dolly will perform any dates in Western Canada. However, it is possible that some additional dates could be added to the tour, and if fans show enough of an interest in that area, it might be possible (since right now it ends in the Northwest U.S. just across the border in December).

Sept. 10, 2004
please could you tell me if dolly is going to tour the uk in the near future? i would love to see her perform live. Regards
Peter Dorsam
London, England
While there is talk about her possibly coming to the U.K. for some concerts in January or February, nothing has been scheduled yet and that speculation is unconfirmed at this time. As soon as anything is official, it will be announced on the Dollymania news page.

Sept. 10, 2004
The posters for Dolly's new concert include a ridiculous misprint, which makes me cringe everytime I see it. The word "I'm" features an apostrophe which is clearly going in the wrong direction. This is not a matter of opinion or editorial choice, it is a fact. The apostrophe should without question be facing the letter "I" as opposed to the letter "m" There is no such thing as an apostrophe that faces the letter that comes after it. That is known as a quotation. I'm surprised this isn't irritating anyone else, especially our faithful journalist webmaster. I hope someone will please tell our beloved singer and her promotions team.
Michael
New York, N.Y.
While I don't have control over the logo Dolly's tour promoters came up with, the apostrophe is incorrect and should be corrected. Perhaps they will see your letter and make the change, because it is quite annoying to see :) And just as a point of clarification, while the use of the backward apostrophe in any true contraction is incorrect, there is a backward apostrophe, but it is to be used only without any characters in front of it to symbolize that the beginning of the word has been abbreviated and its first letters or numbers have been deleted, such as the word 'Tis for "it is" or when the first two digits of a number are removed, like '70s for 1970s.
After publication, the original author added the following: I'm glad you received my letter yesterday. This is a beautiful Dolly site and not the appropriate space for a debate on editorial style. You don't even need to publish this letter, if you don't want. It isn't important. But I must disagree with your reply to me. Using a backward apostrophe in such words as "'tis" and to describe the "'80s"; is also wrong. Many style journals don't address this because this is a problem that developed with computer programs such as Microsoft Word and Word Perfect, where the supposedly "smart quotes" take over. But if you read any properly edited book or magazine, the apostrophe is always to face out. I agree there is such a thing as a "backwards apostrophe" on the keyboard. It sits to the left of the number 1 and is used in words like "Hawai`i." But most often, its use is quite accidental or incorrect. In any case, I love your work on this site and I love Dolly. Long may you both do your excellent work.

Sept. 9, 2004
Hey Duane, I have a question about Internet Presale. I notice on TicketMaster on some of Dolly's concerts it says a date of "On Sale to Public" but then there is "Internet Pre Sale" that is a day or two before. Are these seats up front? On the last "Halo's & Horn's" tour, I went to Las Vegas & saw the show there at the House of Blues. But, there was something online that said AOL members could buy before anyone else. I purchased first thing & was up in the balcony in the last 3 rows. Obviously the floor was standing room only but I wanted a seat, so chose the balcony but we were not even close to the front rows of the balcony. I don't want to buy any "Pre Sale" tickets if it is going to be like that again. Obviously, when she comes to Arco Arena, I want to be as close as possible so what do you know if anything about this? Help please... And again, as always, Thank you SOOO much for all the info you give us. You are much appreciated here..
Kenny Brown
Sacramento, Calif.
A pre-sale is when tickets are available first to a smaller group of people before they go on sale to the general public. Currently, the only scheduled pre-sale is on Friday for her Oct. 26 stop in Detroit, which was announced today. It is listed as a WYCD pre-sale, meaning local radio station WYCD will before Friday morning announce on the air or on its Web site a code which customers may enter at Ticketmaster to get tickets early, which usually means better seats. Generally, these tickets are for all sections. However, as with all concerts, a certain number of close seats are usually reserved for special guests and radio station contests, so that, combined with the large number of people who were buying the tickets at the pre-sale, likely caused yours to be so far back. If there is any pre-sale for the Sacramento show, you can be sure it will be noted on the Dollymania news page prior to it happening. (And the 2002 tour, the pre-sale was not only for AOL members, but it was also for readers of the unofficial Dolly Web sites, including Dollymania.)

Sept. 9, 2004
Im looking for a t-shirt that i saw in april 2004 at the grand opening of Dollywood. The shirt had a high hill shoe on it and stated (Dolly Crossing) If any one can help me please do. I would love to wear this shirt to the Dolly concert in Greenville SC on Oct 14, 2004
Greg Padgett
Simpsonville, S.C.
Hopefully someone out there has one they can get to you.

Sept. 9, 2004
Hi! Just wanted to say how fantastic your site is. The alphabetic and chronological list of Dolly's songs in particular is very useful. I was a new fan with "Hungry Again" and have been catching up. I wondered if the recent re-issues of "Just Because I'm A Woman" and "9 to 5 and Odd Jobs" are the start of a series, and will there be more? Dolly has many old albums that we need to come out on CD like "My Blue Ridge Mountain Boy" and "Bubbling Over." Also is there any chance of a list of the promo videos Dolly has made, and how we can campaign to get them released onto DVD? Yours,
Si
Sawbridgeworth, Herts, U.K.
I'm glad you enjoy the site and find the song listing useful. It's the only one ever published, so it's good for fans trying to find out what album a certain song appeared on :) As for the re-issues, they had started coming out with a handful in the U.S. in 1999 and the U.K. in 2001, but have not released any more since then and currently don't have any scheduled at this time (Just Because I'm A Woman was the exception, but I believe they only re-mastered and re-issued it because the tribute album of the same name was coming out that month, and they wanted to piggy-back on some of its publicity). Unfortunately, the vast majority of her 40-year catalogue of music has been out of print for decades and never released on CD. And while her Sugar Hill videos came out on DVD here in the U.S. last year to help promote the tribute album and her patriotic CD, it is highly unlikely that her former labels will put her videos from years ago on DVD for us fans :(

Sept. 8, 2004
Hi Duane! I was just wonderin if you think there will be any more confirmations of her other tour dates? Thanks! by the way ya got the best Dolly site out there!
Jen
Maryland
Thanks! Yes, I expect additional confirmations to trickle in over coming weeks, including one in Detroit confirmed tonight and added to the news page.

Sept. 6, 2004
HI! I heard this song by dolly and some other female singer on a classic country radio station. It sounded a bit like Emmylou Harris. It wasnt the trio though, because it sounded like a duet. Did dolly do any songs with Emmylou or any other female singer that would be considered Classic Country? Thanks!
Michelle Ivey
Benton, Ark.
Yes, Dolly recorded several songs with other artists over the years, especially Trio pals Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris. Of these, only the Christmas song "Light Of The Stable" with Linda, Emmylou, and Neil Young, and "I Never Will Marry," with Linda, were released as singles. Since it's not Christmas, my guess is you probably heard Linda's version of "I Never Will Marry." The chorus, which has Dolly singing distinctive harmony, is "I never will marry/I'll be no man's wife/I expect to live single/All the days of my life." It is possible that the station played an album cut (a song which was on an album but not released as a single). Album cuts by female singers where she was a guest artist through the "classic country" period included "Good Ole Country Baptisin," "Coke and Chips," and "All I Can Do" with Mary Kay Place in 1976; "When I Stop Dreaming" (1977) and "Green Pastures" (1980) with Emmylou; and "Even Cowgirls Get The Blues" (1979), "Evangeline" (1981), "Mr. Sandman" (1981, but not the version released as a single), and "My Blue Tears" (1982) with Linda and Emmylou.

Sept. 3, 2004
I tried to order the autographed cds but it said temporarily sold out. I guess that means they won't be getting any more that are signed. They went fast. Anways, do you know when Dolly's comming to the Savvis Center? Last time her tickets sold out so fast. Seems like if you blink they're gone. I supose I'll have to check daily to see when they're available. I hope you post it when you find out. Thanks.
Robin
St. Louis, Mo.
The Savvits Center has yet to confirm the show, so it may not be finalized yet. As Dollymania was the first to report, the concert is expected to occur on Oct. 31, as that is the date which The Grascals' Web site has that band (which will open Dolly's shows and serve as her backing band) tentatively playing the venue on that date. I would expect if that's the case, tickets would likely go on sale by the end of this month with an announcement about the date being made at least a week or two in advance of them going on sale. Of course, as soon as that information is available, it will be posted on the news page at Dollymania, so you will see it there in plenty of time to know when to start trying to get your seats :)

Aug. 30, 2004
Where can i find the lyrics to puppy love? There is a part i do not knwo because it is hard to understand. If you cna help me, here is where it is. it is the line right before "And i must confess i'm really hooked"
Michelle Ivey
Benton, Ark.
I looked around myself and didn't see the lyrics posted anywhere, but I listened to the song and believe the line you couldn't figure out was: "Sometimes you won't even carry my books. The next time you'll see me you probably won't look. You're meaner to me than a mean ole crook."
ADDITION: Reader Bonnie says she believes the line I have written as "you probably won't look" sounds more like "you brag on my look" to her, and I agree :)

Aug. 28, 2004
Hey Duane, Thank you sooo much for posting the info on Dolly's up coming tour. It's getting really exciting. But why has there not been any official press release or more info from the Dolly camp about this tour? The word should go out there as soon as possible so that ticket sales can start off swiftly. Also, this seems to be the same show which Dolly had auditions for a few months back right? In any case I'm thrilled she's on the road again...sounds like this is going to be one big show! Thanks again for all the info.
Manny
Burlingame, Calif.
Thanks, Manny. Glad to pass along the information. Yes, I understand that an "official" announcement could be coming any day now from Dolly's camp, although it is a little surprising that The Grascals put out the dates so much sooner and that several of the venues are confirming her performances before she's announced them herself. While the title of the show is the same as the one for which she auditioned dancers several months ago, there have been no indications yet that the dancers will be taking part in her tour. The only descriptions of it (on the Casino Rama's Web site and the Schottenstein Center's site) make no mention of the dancers. I think we should know for sure whether the dancers will be involved once the official tour announcement is made.

Aug. 28, 2004
Hi Dolly, When I heard the GREAT news about THE GRASCALS coming to Canada, being your backup band for your fall tour, I have told everybody around to get over to hear you (so close to us) Orillia, Ont. We (Judy and I) got our tickets for the Oct 23rd show, and now see your also booked for the 24th> since they sold out so fast. Can't wait to see and hear you. I'm also so happy and proud for The Grascals, since Dave Talbot is my godson. Dolly, your sure a BIG HIT up here in Canada. Who knows, maybe we'll get down to see you Dec 7th also in Vegas. All the best, see ya Oct 23rd
Doug & Judy Ransberry
Omemee, Ont, Canada
Congratulations to your godson being in Dolly's band. I know you'll love the show!

Aug. 27, 2004
hay dolly hi all the guys in my villedge are huge fans of yours and there just itching to meet you inperson i told them i would try but could not promass enything that you would make a special apperiance here but if you could be so kind and drop them a hello that would just tickle them silly. thanks yours truly your fan james
ps all the love from the guys they say hello dolly we love you.
James Anastos
New York, N.Y.
While I cannot guarantee Dolly will see it (this is an online newsmagazine dedicated to Dolly, not her official Web site -- since she doesn't operate an official site), I can put it out here where she could possibly see it at some point.

Aug. 26, 2004
Dear Dolly, Hello how are you? For me okay. I am comming to Dollywood in Dec. 10-12,2004. I am bring my husband for a surprise on his birthday in Sept. 21,2004. My queation is are you going to be there at the park? I would like for his to meet you in person for the first time. Let me know about it.
Thanks,
Amy Clark
New Castle, Va.
Amy, first I must let you know that you have written an online newsmagazine dedicated to Dolly, not Dolly herself, and I cannot forward your message to her. But I can tell you that she usually is only in the park four or five times a year and currently is not scheduled to be there in December. Even when she does stop by for appearances, there usually are not opportunities to meet her, although there usually are a few chances to see her in person, albeit from the crowd instead of one-on-one.

Aug. 24, 2004
Dear sirs, I have followed Dolly Pardon since I was 2 years old. She as been a great idle in my life. I have always thought she was a great performer both on stage and on TV. Her songs are so real life and she sings them with so much hearts. My dream would have to be to have her sing at my own wedding but however I know that a dream. Through the 30 years of looking up to her I don't believe she has aged one bit. Sincerely yours,
Wanda Harbin
Burleson, Texas
Thanks, Wanda, for sharing your thoughts.

Aug. 23, 2004
HI! I have a message board for dolly on livejournal.com. I was wanting everyone to know that and i need help with some html. i would really appriciate any help i can get from anyone, because the HTML i know wont work on the website. Thanks!
Michelle Ivey
Benton, Ark.
Perhaps you'll get some replies from people who can help you out with the coding problem. Thanks for writing.

Aug. 21, 2004
si la connaissance et de la joie alors par la joie je t'écris et si la connaissance et de l'amour alors par l'amour je te dit salut. moi je suis un mec marocain j'ai 21 ans je vie a berkane tt pres a la plage de saidia au maroc et j'aime dolly parton . si tu veux je veux des parol de dolly . ok mnt je te laisse et que le dieu te benisse et que la paix et l'amour soit avec vous .
Mohammed Menzel
Berkane, Morocco
Mohammed, I can honestly say that I think this is the first e-mail I have received to the site in a foreign language (hundreds of Dolly's fans from other countries have e-mailed me over the years, but until now they've all sent their comments in English, even when it wasn't their first language). My French is not very good, but I will attempt to translate your letter below for non-French speaking readers (and if you do speak French and can help out with correcting what I am sure are errors in my translation, please do so!): "If the knowledge and of the joy, then by the joy I write to you, and if the knowledge and of the love, then by the love I tell you hello. Me, I am a Moroccan guy 21 years old. I live in Berkane, close to the beach of Saidia in Morocco and I like Dolly Parton. If you want I would like Dolly's light. Ok. I leave you, and may God bless you and peace and the love be with you." Merci, Mohammed!

Aug. 21, 2004
We are writing to request information regarding donation of a wig for a young girl who has cancer. She is 8 years old and her hair is nearly gone due to her weekly chemotherapy. Her name is Dakota and we were wondering if Ms. Parton would be interested in helping. Thank you for your consideration.
Mary Kay Simpson
Gregory, Texas
My prayers are with Dakota. However, you have written an online magazine dedicated to Dolly and not Dolly herself, and I cannot forward your message to her. However, you could perhaps write her a letter with your request. She receives many letters each week, so I am not sure if she would be able to reply, but you never know if you do not try.

Aug. 19, 2004
Hello Dolly. I have always enjoyed her songs. I love your unual sound. I also have a great original song I would like for you to hear and view. How do I contact Dolly or someone who can make it possible for Dolly to hear my song. I can send tape.
Robbie
Long Beach, Calif.
Thanks, Robbie, for your letter. However, you have written an online magazine about Dolly, not Dolly herself. I will respond as I always do to this question, since I receive it from a reader about once a week. Nothing can stop you from sending it to her at one of her two mailing addresses which are public information. However, I would recommend against it. Most singers refuse to listen to unsolicited material, especially if it has not been published by a music publishing company and registered with one of the publishing clearinghouses, such as BMI or ASCAP. The reason is legal liability. A songwriter could claim that a tune the singer records later sounds a little like the one he or she sent in and allege that the original song was stolen. Such allegations, sometimes true but often completely unfounded, happen all the time in the music business. Even Dolly herself has been a victim. A songwriter alleged that she stole "9 To 5" from his song that he claimed to have sent to Jane Fonda a few years prior to the movie of the same name being filmed. He sued, but Dolly was found innocent by a jury in court, and the case was ruled in her favor. I don't personally know if Dolly follows this policy, but because of the possibility of such lawsuits, most singers do, so I doubt she would be able to listen to the song if you submitted it to her. Sorry I couldn't be more optimistic.

Aug. 18, 2004
Dear Dollymania webmaster: I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy this website. I am just a "nut" over Dolly, like yourself!!! Thank you for all of the up-to-the-minute news on Dolly, especially when she will be making appearances on various shows on TV. I also wanted to share some very exciting news that I received today when receiving my mail!!! Because of this website, I acquired the knowledge that Dolly would be performing at Dollywood the weekend of September 24th. I immediately went to Dollywood.com and paid my $70.00 for a season pass so that I could have first dibs on concert tickets. I ordered my two 75-dollar tickets and received them in the mail today!!! Lo and behold, my two seats are on the second row from the front!!! I am so excited I could scream!!! I went to her Christmas concert this past December. However, I found out a bit too late about the concert and had to purchase my tickets off of e-bay at a cost of $560.00, and I was on row P of the center section. I am so excited that I did not have to pay $500 for tickets and got way, way better seats!!!! Thanks again for your hard work on this website!! I really enjoy coming here and just reading for hours about my biggest idol in the whole world!!!! Loving Dolly in Memphis!!!
Bryan Campbell
Memphis, Tenn.
Thanks, Bryan, for your letter. I always love to hear from other Dolly fans who enjoy the site, as your appreciation makes the work that goes into it worthwhile. And congratulations on the great seats! I'm glad to have let you know about the shows and I know you'll love them!

Aug. 17, 2004
Hi Duane, I got my tickets in the mail for the September 25th 7pm concert in Dollywood. Thank you so much for keeping your site so updated I would have never gotten such good seats had it of not been for your site. I am CTR row H seat 24. I cant wait to see her.
Teresa White
Princeton, W.V.
Thanks, Teresa. I'm glad you got your tickets to see Dolly in concert and that they're good seats. I'm proud to have passed along the information which allowed you to order them, and I'm sure you'll love the show in September. I know I will!

Aug. 17, 2004
Hi Duane, Just wanted to say you have a great site and that I visit it daily unless I am away from a computer. Keep up the great work. I also noticed that ONLY your site has the "potential" upcomming concerts by Dolly (Via the Grascals web site). Hope one of the concerts near Penna. actually happens. Mike
Lehighton, Penn.
Thanks, Mike. I was lucky enough to have an astute reader who noticed the dates on the Grascals' site and notified me of them. (And, to be fair, Voice Of An Angel did also post the dates credited to the Grascals' site about three hours after they appeared here, so Dollymania isn't the only one to pass along the information.) As I stated, nothing official involving Dolly's concerts has been announced other than the Dollywood shows in September and the two at the Canadian casino in October, but these dates sure look like a Dolly tour, so I suspect that's what they are. More details as they become available!

Aug. 17, 2004
Is there any way you can contact Dolly to make sure she is safe and sound? Can she send you an email to let us all know? After hearing about her place in FL, we just want to know that she is doing well. We love our sweet Dolly. I pray that God is keeping her in His protection. We want Dolly to know that she is in our thoughts and prayers. There are fans posting at CMT.com (Dolly's message board) about this concern. I have an Aunt in FL - last I've known - whom I haven't heard from in several years and despite searching for her could not find her. I hope and pray she is alright.
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
Scott, my prayers are with your aunt. I'm sure Dolly is fine. To my knowledge, she was not scheduled to be at her Orlando dinner theatre, the Dixie Stampede, that week, so she shouldn't have been in the area when the hurricane hit. (In fact, I don't believe she has visited it except to celebrate its grand opening last year.) And I haven't seen any reports which state that the structure suffered any damage in the storm.

Aug. 16, 2004
HEllo, iam writting an hopeing maybe Dolly will see this my sister who has lived in piegon forge for 19 years is terminally ill with cancer she just found out a few weeks ago she has worked down there 19 years. i hope if dolly does see this she would email me back so i could tell her where she lives an maybe dolly could call her this is the last thing ill ever get to do for her she only has months to live an she is a big fan of dollys all her family is there an here in wva. its my wish that she would get a call from dolly i hope she sees this thank you
Zola Hatfield
Oceana, W.V.
While I can't promise Dolly will see your letter, I hope she does. Your sister is in our prayers.

Aug. 14, 2004
Hey again lol. Well I have yet another question. I see that you have so luckily gotten your hands on a Live and Well DVD. I was just wandering, does it show any behind the scenes stuff kinda like on Live in London, or does it just show the concert. And is it really noticable when she reads off the teleprompter...that's a shame if it is, not for the reason that she reads off one, thats fine, but for the reason that they didn't take the time to cover that up. Aww well anything Dolly is worth the money.:)Thanks so much for always answering my questions. You're the best Duane lol!
Michelle
Ottawa, Ont., Canada
Thanks, Michelle. Yes, it is fairly noticeable on the DVD that Dolly frequently checks the teleprompter during the show. As I had noted in the review (here), I kinda wish they had edited that out, but then again, it's noticeable when you watch her in person, so not deleting that aspect of her performance does allow for a more accurate representation of what actually happened during the concert. Order your copy of the DVD here or the double-CD here! (I realized after I posted this Friday night that I neglected to answer the second part of your question. No, there are no special features or behind-the-scenes footage on the DVD, only the concert itself.)

Aug. 12, 2004
Dear Mr. Gordon: Thank God !! Dolly is coming to Canada. She hasn't performed here in 15 years, so I'm sure her shows will sell out. Thanks to this news on your website; I was able to get good tickets for the show. I don't know if you plan to attend; but I would be thrilled to review the show for your site. Please check out my work on www.soulshine.ca. Go to Reviews where you can find my review of the Dolly tribute ablum, and a concert by Canadian act, Sam Roberts Band.
Dominic Darrah
Toronto, Canada
Your comments reflect the sentiments of many Canadian readers who have contacted me since the concert was announced. They're all very excited Dolly is coming to town! And, yes, I'd welcome reviews of the show from anyone who wishes to send them in, since Ontario is a bit far from Mississippi!