July 13, 2004
hello, im verry excited to here about dolly's new cd and dvd live and well. but i want to know if shes recordind anything new for a new cd? i know dolly loves her music and makes new cds all the time but this live and well has been recorded for some time now. so is dolly in the stuido making a new cd??? thanks,
Bobbie
Lansing, Mich.
While Dolly has said she plans to do "some recording" this year, she has not indiciated what type of music she's planning to record or when an album of it could be released. Since they're putting out the live album in September, I wouldn't expect a new studio album until at least mid-2005 at the earliest. Her most recent studio CD, For God And Country, was only released eight months ago, and she's been going about a year and a half between new albums for the past few years.

July 13, 2004
hey this is Mandi and i just wanted to comment on this site it is a great site and you have done a great job!!! i love everything about it.. She is such a wonderful person and it shows how sweet she is in the pictures. thanks
Mandi Rodgers
Reynoldsburg, Ohio
Thanks so much for your sweet letter. I really appreciate it.

July 13, 2004
Duane, A suggestion to the person looking for how Dolly manages her weight may want to look into Dolly's autobiography, "MY LIFE AND OTHER UNFINISHED BUSINESS" It is worth a try....…
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
I had tried to summarize for her Dolly's multiple mini-meal diet plan, but I do think I forgot to mention for her to look in the autobiography, My Life And Other Unfinished Business, where it's in Dolly's own words, albeit briefly. Thanks for reminding me to do so. (See July 1 update for letter to which Bonnie was referring.)

July 13, 2004
Hi Webmaster! I recently had 12 songs registered through the U.S. Copyright Office. I'm not the best singer, but the words are really important. Can you tell me if Dolly or her agent go to that site to find songs to consider for alburms or concerts? Thank you for information you can provide!
Holly "Roxane" Hamilton
Casa Grande, Ariz.
Her addresses that are public knowledge are published on the Frequently Asked Questions page here. However, as a rule, nearly all singers refuse to listen to unsolicited material, especially if it has yet to be published by a music publishing firm (even if it's been registered at the Copyright Office) because of liability issues. Some songwriters will send something to a singer then years later complain that another song that person wrote sounds too much like the one they sent him or her and sue claiming the song was stolen. This happened to Dolly herself with the tune "9 To 5," although she was exonerated in court. Because of this problem in the music industry, I doubt she would be able to listen to your songs if you sent them to her. Sorry I couldn't be more optimistic.

July 10, 2004
I am excited to hear about Dolly's new CD/DVD release coming this September. I will definitely be buying them. Thanks for the info, guys. :)
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
Thanks, Scott. I'm very excited about it myself!

July 9, 2004
Just a note to say I think your web site is not only informative but so professionally presented. Yours is the only site I go to when I am looking for "Dolly info". Keep up the good work. We have a home in Pigeon Forge as well as West Virginia and therefore are always interested in what's going on in the area. By the way...any information on a possible September concert? Thanks.
LBG (Linn)
Hurricane, W.V.
Thanks so much, Linn, for your kind words. As for the concert, what she said in June was she was considering performing during the bluegrass and gospel festivities at the park in late September, but nothing has been scheduled as of now. Today, the park announced the guest performers for the bluegrass shows, who will play in the Celebrity Theatre where Dolly always performs, so I think that lessens the chance she is going to do a concert that weekend after all.

July 1, 2004
hello! Just a quick note to let you know that a very goodlooking guy is on the cover of the new "Instinct" magazine (gay news magazine) wearing a Dolly t-shirt.
Frank Echols
Philadelphia, Pa.
Thanks for the heads-up. A couple other readers had alerted me to that this week, and I'm going to have a mention on the news page in tonight's update.

July 1, 2004
Years ago my wife and I were on a diet that Dolly had put out, it was a cabbage soup recipe. Does she still have it and if so could you send it to me. Thanks,
Tommy Tidwell
Santa Fe, Texas
Unfortunately, I don't have Dolly's cabbage diet recipe. However, I know that over the years she tried numerous fad diets, some of which took a little weight off, but it always came back. What she says she ended up doing to take the weight off and keep it off is to eat several tiny meals a day insted of three normal-sized meals. (I actually caught part of Extreme Makeover a few months ago, and this was the same meal plan one of the trainers had recommended for a contestant so she could lose enough weight to safely have her cosmetic surgery on the program.) Also, to keep herself from eating too much when she goes out, she says she pretends she has two guardian angels watching over her and eating with her, and she refuses to eat their portion of the food on her plate. Hope this helps.

June 30, 2004
I just saw the photos from last Friday. I hadn't been on the site in a while and didn't even know she was there, I was so bummed. I really liked reading your transcript. Made me feel like I was there almost. I haven't been there since she was there for the show taping back last August (I believe it was, and found out about it on your site). I'd rather see her perform in small venues or at tapings because they're more personable and you see better. I didn't even know she was still doing the scholarship awards for teens. Then her recognizing teachers who make a difference, and seeing all 23 reps of her Imagination Library, it put a smile in my heart. I don't even know Dolly and I'm so proud of her. I got teary eyed when she talked about her dad. To think Dolly was brought up in a poor rural tennessee area, I bet most folks assumed she (and most women) would end up house wives or something. Then, becomming not just a successful singer, but to really truely change the world for a better place. To me, that's amazing. I think she's fascinating and that's why I like her.
Robin
St. Louis, Mo.
I'm glad you enjoyed the transcript. (Maybe it shows you should visit the news page more frequently -- LOL!) Thanks for passing along your thoughts -- read the transcript and see the photos here. Dolly had a great presentation there at the park, and she is expected to return in September to open the Harvest Festival, and possibly perform a concert or two there as well (although those haven't been finalized or officially announced yet), so you might want to make plans to stop by at that time. She is very inspirational and just an amazing and loving person. We're all proud to call ourselves fans.

June 30, 2004
Hi Duane, I would I would drop you a line. I would like to thank you for a wonderful Dolly Parton site, it truly is and is one of the finest. You call your site a "Dolly news magazine" do you plan maybe to give your site a magazine look? I think it really would be nice. Also is there any chance of putting pictures of the diffrent layout of your site through the years on here? That would be nice to see.
Paul Potter
Lancing, England
Right now, I don't have plans to change the design of the site, but that could, of course, be a possibility in the future. The reason for calling it an "online newsmagazine" is that the goal of the site isn't to operate as a standard "fan site," but rather serving its readership as a professional, journalistic publication providing news and information on Dolly. I don't really have many samples saved of the site's earlier layouts, but I might try to put some of them up at some point from the ones I do have.

June 26, 2004
dear webmaster, i seen where that dolly might do a concert in september....will that be during the fall dollywood opening thing that they have or what???...and as soon as you know for sure will you post it imediately on the website so everyone can get tickets??? thanks for the info,
Amanda
Glasgow, Ky.
p.s. you are doing a great job on you website!!! i love being able to get news almost everyday instead of every month!!!!
Thank you for the compliment, and I'm glad you enjoy the site. Yes, I asked Dolly at her KidsFest opening press conference last week when we'd see her in concert again. She replied that she's not sure but she is considering scheduling concerts during the fall festival at Dollywood, which runs Sept. 24-Oct. 30. Her complete answer to the question is available in the main story on the KidsFest event here. I suspect that if she does perform a concert, it would likely be that opening day of Sept. 24, but nothing has been finalized yet. As soon as something is scheduled, though, details will be posted on the site's news page.

June 26, 2004
Hi Duane! I was so happy that my sister, Meredith and I were able to meet you at Dollywood on Friday. I talked to you right after the press conference in the Celebrity Theatre ended. I was wearing an orange shirt, and I believe my sister was wearing a blue one. I don't know if you remember us or not but I was glad to meet the person who does such a great job on this website. I visit Dollymania just about every day to read the news. I think that it is wonderful that you do this (especially that you do it in your spare time and not as your job!). Dollymania is definitely the best website about Dolly. My sister and I saw Dolly in person for the first time last year at the Kidsfest opening, and we also went to the Christmas Concerts last year. We were very lucky and were able to go to the Flameworthy Awards, which were a very neat thing to see in person. We have never gotten to meet Dolly personally, but on Friday, during the parade she looked directly at us and said "Hey" and waved and winked at us. We were very thrilled about that. But, I guess that's about it and maybe I will be able to see you again sometime!
Michael
Hendersonville, N.C.
Yes, I do remember you! I always love to meet readers of the site when I'm out covering Dolly. As I explained to my media escort as she kinda dragged me away from y'all to run over to see one of the other KidsFest perfomers, one real interesting thing about running the site (and having my photo on there) is that readers are always recognizing me at various Dolly appearances and stopping to say hi, so it sometimes takes me a little while to get out of a concert or event like that. But I do enjoy it. Like I've said many times, I operate the site 1) to honor Dolly, and 2) to provide a service to her other fans since she doesn't have an official Web site or any personal avenue for providing regular news on her career, and I do appreciate all of its readers. I'm glad you're enjoying it, and I'm sure we'll probably run into each other again at another Dolly appearance :)

June 24, 2004
In regard to The artical "Dolly Duet Didn't Work," I feel I must comment. They feel they didn't even give it a chance! I did not listen to the entire album but listened to "Undercover". While it did not have the same spark the pair have had in recent collaborations it was still good in my opinion. Why not release it as a single. It couldn't do any worse than Reba's single "On My Own" a year or two ago. (Don't get me wrong, I DO love Reba, but that song was BADLY out of tune) I would be interested to hear your (as well as any others ou there) opinion on this. What do you think Duane?
James
Edmonton
Canada
Yes, I agree they didn't appear to give the song much of a chance. It may not be "Islands In The Stream," but it was really the best cut on the CD and just a fun song. Had they shot a video, did a couple of television appearances to sing it live, and released it to radio as a single, I think there would have been a good chance it could have at least cracked the top 40, maybe even made it as high as No. 25 or 30 (although I doubt it would have gone much higher). Even those low numbers would have been better than any of Dolly's or Kenny's solo singles have done recently and would have prompted additional sales of the album. (After the success of "Buy Me A Rose" in 2000, Kenny has charted seven singles, all in the 30s and 40s with the exception of "There You Go Again," which made it to No. 26. The two singles from Back To The Well were "I'm Missing You," which stopped at No. 49, and "Handprints On The Wall," which reached No. 40. In that same period, Dolly has only charted one song, "Hello God," which went to No. 60, but an uncredited appearance on Shania Twain and Alison Krauss' cover of "Coat Of Many Colors" made it to No. 57.) As for "On My Own," I actually happened to like the song, but I thought it would have sounded much better with just Reba singing -- so many voices just didn't mesh well with hers. That single, which was actually from almost a full decade ago in 1995, peaked at No. 20.

June 23, 2004
Hiya, i am laura 17 / uk. i luv your site! i have been a MASSIVE fan of dolly since i was little, and am very determined in making a career in the music / acting business myself (fingers crossed!) i was just wondering whether you know of an adress where i could write to her, and are there any events or places where i could possible meet her? (that would be a dream come true!) thank you very much for your time, please write back asap,
Laura
Glucester, U.K.
Thanks, Laura. As far as writing Dolly, the addresses which are public record are published on the site's Frequently Asked Questions page here. As far as meeting her, she doesn't do many appearances where fans have the opportunity to do so, so that is a rare occurrence. But best wishes on your own singing and acting career!

June 22, 2004
Hello Duane, love your site...keep up the great work! I shared your touching Dollywood 2003 desert encounter with my family. The description and pictures made your experience so real. Anyway, can you help me figure out when DP is scheduled to appear on park? Hotel desk clerks have been excitedly telling guests, and park employees spread rumors when on break, so you should be able to scoop this out, right? Why not post it on the "Appearances" column, or is it meant to be a secret?
Bill
Central, Fla.
Thanks for your kind words. (Bill was talking about my meeting with Dolly and a cup of banana pudding at the park's opening weekend last year. Read about it here.) You hit it right on the head, Bill, about her appearances. Dollywood's policy is that her schedule of appearances, other than the fact that she will be present at the park on that day, is supposed to remain secret so they may be surprises when they occur. I'm sure security issues also play a role in this decision. The media, this site included, know the date that she is to appear at the park but not her actual schedule, since it is not supposed to be released. We do sometimes learn about one or two of the scheduled appearances, but usually not all of them. And even if I do, unless it's something that the park wants to be public knowledge, I respect their policy and do not post the locations or times she is to appear. Also, her schedule sometimes changes without notice, and I wouldn't want to pass along information to the readers which is no longer correct. Also because they want the appearances to be a surprise, often many employees at the park don't know all of the details either. They may hear rumors, some true and some untrue, and be willing to pass them along to guests at the park, but you must take each of those with a grain of salt. When the press arrives, we aren't even given the full schedule. We have escorts who have the schedule (and I don't think they're supposed to tell us or other people in the park the details, although some do), and their job is to run us around the park so we make each appearance. Even with all of the secrecy, word does usually get out, so hundreds of fans hear the rumors and show up at various locations, sometimes to see Dolly and sometimes to find out the information was in error.

June 22, 2004
Hi, Just wanted to share i gotta chance to see Dolly at the Celebrity Theatre on Friday! Do you know of anywhere else she was at (If any) the park that day? Thanks
Sharon, Lexington, Ky.
The only other appearance she made that day was a quick parade through the park grounds at 4 p.m.

June 21, 2004
Dear Dolly,
I have just joined your Web site. I have just been given your For God and Country. It is not available in Australia. A friend of mine returned from America and gave it to me.WOW
Justin
Goraken, N.S.W, Australia
Justin, thanks for your note. Yes, it is a wonderful album and it is a shame that her label chose only to release it in the U.S. due to its patriotic nature. And although you haven't written Dolly directly by sending a note to this site, perhaps she will see it here.

June 17, 2004
I just want to say congrats and way to go to Miss Dolly for her #1 Love Song "I Will Always Love You". I saw the concert on TV and loved it when Dolly came out on stage and sang. Dolly Parton is truly AWESOME!!!! By the way, IWALY is one of my all-time favorites of Dolly songs. Two thumbs up for Dolly. You go girl!!!! I will always love my Sweet Angel Dolly. :)
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
Yes, the song truly deserved the top spot!

June 15, 2004
First of all I would like to say how happy I was that "I will always love you" was #1 on CMT's 100 love songs. She as well as the song deserves to be there. She is an amazing talent. I did, however, find it odd that it was the only song of Dolly's. What happened to "Rockin' Years, Heartbreaker, Real Love, It's all wrong..., Old Flames...You're the only one? Oh well, I guess we can't have everything. I'm just a greedy Dolly fan I guess. I love your site. Thanks
Joseph Nunn
St. Louis, Mo.
Yes, as I noted on the news page when CMT released the list of the top 100 a few days ago, I was very surprised Dolly didn't earn more entries in the countdown. She's charted 24 country No. 1 hits, and all but a couple of those would be considered love songs under the criteria CMT's panel used, giving her more love song No. 1s than any other female performer in any genre of music. I thought for sure at least "Islands In The Stream" would make the top 100, since CMT's sister network VH1 put it in the top 80 on their countdown of the 100 greatest pop love songs (of course, Whitney Houston's cover of "I Will Always Love You" topped that list). I mean, "Jolene" is considered one of the best country songs ever written, and it really is about love and the fear of losing it, so I thought it would be in the top 50 or so as well, but alas it wasn't. Not to mention "Here You Come Again," "You're The Only One," "Yellow Roses," "Starting Over Again," "Joshua" and more. And how about a Porter duet like "Making Plans" or "Please Don't Stop Loving Me"? I thought parts of the countdown were too focused on more recent songs, but everyone is entitled to his or her opinion :) Thanks for sharing yours.

June 15, 2004
I love your site and all the effort you make to update and keep all of us Dolly fans informed on the latest news and happenings..Thank you for all that you do.Your site is the best...I am sure even Dolly checks it out.I do have a question--Any news on when Dolly will be putting out some new music? I can not wait..
Bill
Christian, W.V.
Thanks so much for your kind words. While Dolly has said she intends to do some recording this year, she hasn't given any indication of when a new album may be coming out. She is still releasing singles from "For God And Country" and promoting it, so nothing new should be coming out until they're finished with that project.

June 15, 2004
You know how much I adore this site. My question is, how does Dolly keep her voice sounding so fresh? Some artists will refrain from speaking on the day they have to perform. Does Dolly do anything special? Her voice sounds just as clear as it did when I first heard her back in the early 70's. Thanks so much. All your hard work here is greatly appreciated.
Bridget
Woodbridge, Va.
As always, thank you. I don't think she's ever really talked about what she does to save her voice. However, you will notice if she performs after doing a volley of press interviews where she talks constantly, like the July 4 concert last year, she does get rather hoarse. I know she has been known to stop speaking before a performance if she seems to be losing her voice, like she did at the Grammy Awards a few years ago, but other than that, I think that's about it.

June 11, 2004
GREAT site!!!!
Cameron
Clearwater, Fla.
Thanks so much!

June 9, 2004
Hi, Thanks for keeping us informed about Dolly! This is a great website. Do you happen to know which album "We might be in love" is on? It was featured in the film Blue Valley Songbird. Thanks,
Karen
New York City, N.Y.
Thanks, Karen, but I don't think you'll like my answer. Unfortunately, she has never recorded the song for the public. She performed the song with Billy Dean in the film and that's about it. She did record a demo version to submit unsuccessfully for consideration in a couple of other film soundtracks, and there are some bootlegs of that version floating around in the fan community, but it has never been recorded for commercial release on an album.

June 8, 2004
Do you know if BMG Heritage has any plans to release more of Dolly's older albums onto CD in the future?
Jay Lineberry
Independence, Mass.
No, unfortunately, BMG has not announced any plans along those lines. I believe the only reason they re-issued 1968's Just Because I'm A Woman was to capture the fruits of the publicity for the star-studded tribute album of the same name released at almost the same time eight months ago. After the success of the label's recent Elvis Presley compilations and their Ultimate Dolly Parton compilation a year ago, there were some public comments that they were considering additional Elvis and Dolly releases, among those from other artists from the vast RCA catalogs, but no new developments have come to light on the Dolly records other than the compilation disc Platinum and Gold Collection, which came out in May and contained 12 of the same 20-30 songs that appear on just about all of the Dolly RCA compilation CDs.

June 4, 2004
Dear Duane..would like to say thank you for keeping this WEB site up to date and always current with Dolly news and events...WWW.DOLLY.NET is such a letdown and I have never been disappointed with your site!...Ive been collecting since 1974 and I have a room full of stuff..I have all the AMERICAN pressings on vinyl..LP`s...was wondering if perhaps you could do an IMPORT LP album cover PAGE!!...I have several import`s and could help with the covers but would love to know how many IMPORT LP`s was issued and in which countries? Maybe this is asking a little much but collecting since I have so much..I have to expand(I`m sure other collector`s like me would be over excited in finding the LP`s that was available outside the UNITED STATES..Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Steven
Staunton, Va.
Thanks for your letter, and I appreciate the nice things you said about the site. While I would never endorse disparaging remarks about another Dolly site, you are entitled to your opinion, and letters here are always published unedited. An import page would be a good idea. I might give that a try in the near future as I consider possible expansions to the site. It would never, however, be complete, as there have been literally hundreds of compilations and other versions of Dolly's albums released overseas over the past 40 years. Just putting together a list alone would be impossible, much less assembling all of the cover photos from them. But perhaps I'll try to assemble a page of several dozen of the covers in the next few months for y'all. Thanks for your input, and thanks again for your compliments.

June 4, 2004
Hello my name is Jacque and i am from the state of Arkansas, I am 13 years old and i am a big fam of Dollys. I have resently been to her Dixie Stampede and I had a blast it was all so wonderful she does a great job, and her speech about America at the end is so touching. I am also reading her life book and it has realy inspiered me to stick to my goals and do the best at all i can. I hope to meet Dolly someday , becouse she is a roll model to me and i look up to her . Becouse i enjoy singing and I think she is a wonderful singer . One of my favorite songs of hers is the one she sings on the Beverly hillbillys movie andthe song why'd ya come in here lookin like that. I always sing along with her when her songs come on and i also watch her music videos. I hope dolly gets to read this letter becouse i would really like to meet or even talk to her. She is someone i look up to , and respect . And all this is to dolly .your book shows you are a great person and have a great personality and you did great on the Dixie stampede ( i hope to work there someday riding horses) i would recomeend it to anyone. also it would be a dream come true if i could meet or even talk to you. Your a wonderful person Dolly and you really inspire me.
your freind (fan)
Jacque Gilbert.
Searcy, Ark.
What a sweet young fan! While I cannot personally forward your message to Dolly, I'll post it here, and perhaps she will see it.

June 2, 2004
Hey! Recently in the news section I read that some people saw Dolly ata a music store and took pictures. Is there anyway we could see them? And also I am a new Stella Parton fan and even though this isnt really about Dolly, I wanted to see if you could help me here. I keep reading things about Stella in the Dukes of Hazzard....is she one of the character in the old show or how is she affiliated with it? Thanks!! Your site is no.1!
Michelle
Ottawa, Ont., Canada
Thanks, Michelle, for your kind words. I always appreciate hearing from other Dolly fans who enjoy the site. I don't personally have any of those photos from Dolly's recent outing at the music store in Nashville, but I understand someone associated with a Dolly fan site got her picture taken with her, so perhaps it'll show up on one of the other sites sometime in the future. And, yes, Stella did make one guest appearance on an episode of the original The Dukes Of Hazzard. She played the character of Mary Beth Malone on episode 10.

June 2, 2004
Your website is great, but it needs some multimedia videos and interview transcripts to make it a bit more interesting. Keep working at it though!
Eleanor Macmorran
Inverness, Scotland, Great Britain
Thank you for your comments. I especially love to hear from Dolly's fans outside the U.S. As for multimedia, unfortunately those cannot be legally made available without paying some fairly high royalties to the copyright holders for permission to post them. Since this site operates under journalistic principles and standards, I work to not post anything without permission of the copyright holder. There are some links on individual pages (such as those for Just Because I'm A Woman and Halos & Horns) to sound clips available from Dolly's record label, but that's about it. There are also some transcripts of speeches at some of her public appearances on various pages (such as her 2004 Dollywood season opening press conference here and her Imagination Library 1 millionth book presentation here), but television interviews, magazine interviews and similar transcripts are not available because posting them without permission (and paying royalties) is illegal.

May 22, 2004
After reading through a few comments I wonder if some of it is deserved. Dolly has talked herself down so much no one needs to add much, darn near can see it all and I admire that. My ex-wife; also a Parton, was never too kind but I dont believe she was privy to much. I raised 2 kids by her and never got child support because that was the deal in 84. After we were in OKC in 95 we didnt get much support gay or straight. I like conservatives but they dont help much with advice. I knew the best baseball player and best bud over this, my sons. thanks, dgordon
Eric Hollon
Dayton, Ohio

May 20, 2004
AGAIN GREAT JOB WITH ALL THE DOLLY NEWS I LOVE YOUR WEB SITE KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK. THANKS!
Kim Stover
Beckley, W.V.
Thanks so much, Kim! I try my best.

May 20, 2004
Thanks so much to the folks at the Imagination Program for your efforts in developing a love of reading in America's children. There was an article in our local paper today (5-19-04) and it appears our paper, the Southern Standard, and the Noon exhange Club, will be local sponsors for this great idea. In today's world, video games and comoputers have taken the place of books in far too many homes. Hopefully this will be a good first step toward getting those kids reading again. Not only will our schools benefit, but society as a whole will as well.
Ed Partin
Morrison, Tenn.
Yes, Ed, the Imagination Library, which provides one free book per month from birth to age 5 for every child whose parents sign up in one of the more than 250 communities in 40 states which participate, is a wonderful program! I'm so pleased Dolly created it, helped fund its nationwide expansion and is using her influence, money and talents for such a good philanthropic endeavor. It will make a lasting and substantial impact on our country, I am certain.

May 20, 2004
So dolly do you think your cool going on the ellen show? I guess you condone homesexuality? I dont think your fan base is with you on this one. I for one will never buy your music again. So was it worth it? Ex Fan you loose!!!!!!
James L. Dean
Houston, Texas
James, you have written an unofficial Dolly news site, not Dolly herself. It's a shame you feel that way, although it shows you are not a true fan to begin with. First, appearing on a talk show hosted by someone who happens to be a lesbian has nothing to do with one's opinion on such an issue any more than appearing on Martha Stewart's show confirms one condones insider stock trading. Secondly, a celebrity's political opinion should not impact one's opinion of his or her art. The Dixie Chicks' music sounds exactly the same before Natalie Maines made her famous anti-Bush remark as it did afterward, regardless of one's opinion on her political views. Finally, anyone who had followed Dolly for any time knows her opinions on homosexuality. While she almost never publicly discloses an opinion on a controversial topic, on this one she has been very open. For two decades, she has talked publicly about her love for her large gay and lesbian following, which makes up a very sizeable portion of her core fan base. In more recent years, she has been much more open about her favoring gay civil rights, AIDS research and treatment advocacy, gay marriage and much more. Her record label advertises each of her albums in the nation's largest gay and lesbian news and style magazines. She recently recorded a CMT concert special with openly lesbian rocker Melissa Etheridge. She spoke of her opinion on the subject a decade ago in her autobiography. She is frequently asked about it in mainstream interviews from Larry King to Oprah. She has written songs with Elton John, recorded with Janis Ian and has worked in other areas with many, many gay designers, make-up artists, directors, producers and more. One of her closest friends and longtime manager, Sandy Gallin, is regarded as one of the most powerful gay men in Hollywood. She appeared several years ago on the cover of gay publication OUT. And any Dolly concert is heavily populated with a gay audience, making up anywhere from a third to more than half of the crowd at most venues in her most recent tour. So unless you haven't paid any attention to her for the past 20 years or so, you should know what she thinks about homosexuality. Finally, the vast majority of Americans support at least some degree of gay civil rights, such as prohibiting employment and housing discrimination against gays and lesbians, even if they disagree with the lifestyle on principle. So I strongly doubt most of her fan base would cringe at her support for gay people. Simply put, you're out of the loop.

May 19, 2004
Is "Welcome Home" available on an accompaniant track? If so, where can you find it?
Teresa Scoggins
Clover, S.C.
You're in luck, Teresa. Many readers have written since the album first came out in the fall to inquire about an accompaniment track for the song, and until recently there wasn't one. But Chartbuster Karaoke, which manufactures discs that are available from most retailers of accompaniment music, did release the song on its country disc issued last month. The "April 2004 Country" title's numbers are CBK6321 and CBK60321, and it also features Shania Twain's "It Only Hurts When I'm Breathing," John Michael Montgomery's "Letters From Home," Gretchen Wilson's "Redneck Woman" and several other selections. I saw it available from both Karaokedepot.com and Karaoke.com at about $15 from either store.

May 16, 2004
Love your site and wanted to let Dolly's fans know that I have a guitar signed by Opry legends including Hal Ketchum and Porter Wagoner. It's only been played once, and that was backstage at the Opry. It breaks my heart to sell it but I have to to help pay for a missions trip. It's on ebay for another day so bid there or contact me. Thanks & God Bless,
Julie
Nashville, Tenn.
View the auction here.

May 15, 2004
Hi Duane, Do you know if anyone has won the contest from CMT where you could win a chance to meet Dolly as well as a trip to Dollywood? Thanks!
Manuel
Burlingame, Calif.
I'm sure they have selected the winner. They were scheduled to do so on April 19. CMT.com usually doesn't put winners' names on their Web site, but if you'd like to find out who it was, you may send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to "Be Dolly's Guest at Dollywood" Sweepstakes CMT.com, Room 371, 330 Commerce Street, Nashville, TN 37201, by May 30 to be sent the winner's name.

May 15, 2004
Way to go Duane! I really like how you handled those last 2 emails from people who say their "fans" of hers. I think your response speaks for everyone out there who knows the full story and is not blaming Dolly or hers workers for any of this. (if workers is the right term, lol) Now I'm not gay but how can you people out there who say your christian, and then tell people they should be ashamed of their selves for choosing a different kind of life style? As far as I'm concerend Christains accept others for who they are. Thats how ive been raised. Now everyone is entitled to their own opion but i dont think its fair to peopl who are gay, to say that they should be ashamed. Thanks! love the site.
Jen
Maryland

May 15, 2004
Duane, I could not have said it better myself! I applaud you for the way you handled the situation and stood up for Dolly. Let's hope that this is the end of this nonsense! I have written to you before expressing how I can't understand why people will go on and on about a subject they know nothing or very little about what they are talking about. I admit I do get offended when people trash Dolly but especially when they don't have their facts straight. Again kudos for attempting to put and end to this and I hope this negativity will NOT effect Dollywood or Dolly in ANY way.
James
Edmonton, Alb., Canada
Thank you both for your support.

May 14, 2004
You should be ashamed of yourselves! Dollywood has always been a family oriented theme park. Do you want to be of the same mind-set and moral constitution as Eisner???? Since you have planned the second annual "Gay Day", are you also having a second annual "Straight Day"? If you are going to have a "Day of Perversion" then do the world a favor, and prohibit children and their "straight" families from attending that day. Then bring in commercial strenghth sanitizers and bleach the place down before you allow any innocents in through your gates again. There's enough disease being spread around the world as it is. I am ashamed of all the movers and the shakers of Dollywood, but mostly I am ahamed of Dolly Parton, who seems to have forgotten her upbringing; and isn't that what Dolly has always been about???? Let's see if you can keep that park open on "Gay Day" money. If Americans had any sense at all, they would do what I am planning on doing, and never spend a dollar of my money at Dollywood or a record store. I'm planning on letting everyone I know about "Gay Day". I Hope they tell everyone they know, and so on, and so on, and so on.
A Letter from a Southern Daughter/Wife/Mother/Grandmother/and most importantly, Christian, who again thinks you should be ahamed of yourselves.
Janyne Stevens
Eden, N.C.

May 14, 2004
to whom it may concern i have been a fan of dolly for many years she said she comes from a family that believes in god and high moral standards yet she supports people that behave in a way that is only of satin is the love of money so great that she would put it first before god? if you are gonna have a gay day then you should have a senior day and especially a day for the handicapped at least that would be justified i find it hard to believe that her daddy and momma would support gays i wish i hadnt bought my season tickets before i found out that you think being gay is ok shame on you
Jimmy
Greenville, Tenn.

Oh, Janyne and Jimmy, where of where to start responding to these letters . . . Well, whenever you write a letter to the editor of any publication, you should first have your facts straight (excuse the pun). It is obvious that you haven't read anything of substance about the planned event and are spouting off with no knowledge whatsoever. You appear to assert that Dolly and Dollywood have something to do with putting this event together, which is incorrect and has been noted as false in the stories covering the event from legitimate news sources. The so-called "Gay Day" being organized this month at the theme park is an unofficial event. It is not endorsed, sponsored, organized, or in any way or fashion associated with Dollywood. Quite the opposite -- Dollywood's attorneys sent the event's organizers a letter demanding they stop using its trademarked logo and name without permission in advertising for it. It is being organized by private individuals who are publicizing a date on which they are encouraging gay and lesbian people to wear shirts of the same color and visit the theme park. That's it. The park has nothing to do with it other than letting paying customers in. You can't block the gates and tell people they can't come in because they happen to have on red shirts. The park welcomes anyone who wants to come on any day, gay or straight, red shirt or green shirt. Just as these people are putting together "Gay Day," if you wanted to organize a "Handicapped Day" or a "Seniors Day," you're more than welcome to do so. Send out letters and e-mails inviting people to attend, and then show up, pay your admission and enjoy the park. Just don't put "Dollywood" in its official name or use the park's trademarked logo without permission, as the organizers of "Gay Day" did. Without their having infringed on the company's logos, without Dollywood having demanded they stop, it never would have gotten all this publicity in the press, and you never would have heard about it. It would have gone on as planned, and few people would have noticed. But back to the substance of your letters: First, a common courtesy when engaging in any debate such as this is to refrain from bigoted name-calling, such as "Day Of Perversion" or calling people's lifestyles "of Satan" (which I assume is what you meant, since a lifestyle of the fabric satin wouldn't make much sense). Secondly, I do not believe this is the appropriate place for theological debate, but since you brought it up, I wonder if you are aware that many mainstream, legitimate Christian denominations have a different interpretation of the Scriptures and possess no spiritual objection to homosexuality. Lest we forget a classic piece of philosophy from The Eagles: "We satisfy our endless needs, and justify our bloody deeds, in the name of destiny, and in the name of God." Third, even though Dolly has no personal hand in this event, and neither does Dollywood for that matter, she does support the gay and lesbian community. Your apparent ignorance to that fact indicates you're not true fans, because you have little knowledge about her. Watch her television interviews, read her autobiography from a decade ago, see her on CMT's "Crossroads" concert special with lesbian rocker Melissa Etheridge. She's been open for years about her beliefs in this area, noting that she does not believe they clash with any of her spiritual and religious beliefs either. In closing, although I disagree with your opinions and believe they are misguided and woefully ill-informed, you have a right to them, and it is the policy of this Web site to publish its readers' comments unedited unless they are libelous. Still, I'd prefer if people didn't send in such drivel. As the axiom says, 'Tis better to remain silent and appear a fool than to open one's mouth and remove all doubt. I wish everyone, both those upset Dollywood won't let them use the logo and name for "Gay Day" and those who want to stone Dolly because she doesn't have a "No Gays Allowed" sign at the park's gates, would get over it and stop sending letters on this subject. Thank you.

May 11, 2004
Duane, Is there any chance you will make a page detailing the episodes of Dolly's ABC Variety Series from 1988? I love reading about the 70's show since I never got the chance to see them and would love to do the same for the ABC series.
Tony
Independence, Va.
Thanks, Tony. Hopefully someday I'll get the chance to sit down and watch all of her 1980s series episodes and write down all of the guests as well as skits and songs performed on there, but right now I haven't the time to do so.

May 11, 2004
OMG!!! I am finding out from bignewsnetwork.com that Dollywood is requesting gays and lesbians not to advertise "Gay Day At Dollywood" for trademark reasons. Now for all gay and lesbian Dolly fans, I want you to know that this is NOT a homophobic issue on Dollywood or Dolly Parton's part. We know Dolly better than that. I wanted to set that issue straight. (No pun intended.) I sent an email response to that website to let them know how I feel about this. I just don't want to see Dolly lose fans over it. She certainly has not lost me as a fan, and she never will - no matter what. If I get a reply from that website, I will let you know what they said. If anyone wants to read the article, go to voiceofanangel.com, and click on current news.
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
Actually, the story of this current controversy was posted on Dollymania's news page the night the news first broke about a week and a half ago, and several additional stories on the subject (including a link to the one you mentioned on Australia's Big News Network here) have been noted on the news page as they appeared in other media outlets during that time period. Also, if you scroll down on this page, there is an extensive discussion of the subject among fans posted here. I believe her true fans understand that this has nothing to do with homophobia and is simply a trademark issue, and I doubt any will lower their respect for Dolly because of it. (P.S. Voice Of An Angel has replaced its independent news page with the Dolly news page of Google.com, which is why this article shows up there.)

May 10, 2004
Hi, Just to tell everyone that there is a Dolly parton Tribute song out on the SoundClick Charts., namely 'I WANNA LIVE LIKE DOLLY PARTON by The Crossdressers. http://www.soundclick.com/bands/1/thecrossdressers.htm. The song is good clean family listening. It is currently being professionally produced in the studios. The Soundclick version is a temporary band in the box version to give y'all a taster. Hope you enjoy it. Please send all feedback to Janet Thomas - e-mail clearly_maria@hotmail.com.Look forward to hearing from you. Cheerio for now,
Janet Thomas
Cheltenham, U.K.

May 10, 2004
I have a question,I was at the Dollywood Grand Opening,and I met a guy that told me he once worked at Dollywood,during our conversation,we got to talking about Dolly Parton's autograph. I mentioned to him,I had wrote to Dollywood and got some autographed photo's of Dolly. He told that the photo's that was sent out from the Dollywood Foundation was not signed by Dolly,that he seen the photo's being signed by a lady that works for the foundation. I was wondering if you could answer this,if this person is telling the truth or not,for while visiting Dollywood I went to a shop there that sells autographed photo's and they had some photo's signed by Dolly,like the ones sent out by the foundation,and I told the guy what I was told,and he told me that he has seen Dollys autograph,and seen her sign,and Dolly signs differently,and he was positive Dolly signs all her items that comes from Dollywood. I am a concerned fan. HELP.
Beverly
Dover, Del.
I've told by several people that some of the photos given out by the Foundation are signed by an assistant there and not Dolly herself, but I've never personally verified that, so I'm not sure whether it's true. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.

May 10, 2004
i wanted to ask Dolly if she had any shoes she would like to pass on as I take the same size (2) and find it very difficult to find shoes. I am sure she has a few pairs that she doesn't need and could do without. I have been a fan for about 35 years and have a lot in common with her.
jennifer jones
Wales, U.K.
Neat idea, but I doubt she'd be willing to send any shoes to her fans. I know some go to museums when she's done with them, and others I've seen donated to charity for auction, but I've never heard of her giving them away to anyone for another purpose. I bet if she did, she'd be inundated with requests for them :)

May 10, 2004
Dolly, You are one of my fav. singers in county music. May god bless you in all you do, will you please send me a picture of you that you have signed and god will bless you for it. I have one of your CD's my #1 song is "Welcome Home." I just love the meaning of the song i am sitting hear singing the song "red white and bluegrass" may god bless you. love always,
Justin
Monroe, Ga.
Justin, hopefully Dolly will see your letter here. I know if she does, it will touch her heart.

May 4, 2004
Each day I check your website. My family and I have been coming to Dollywood for many years as Season Pass Holders. Your website has been perfect for finding out information when we are coming up. I have yet to find a single fault with your website. We have been to the opening day parade for a couple of years, and we came this year. We were unfortunatly late, because of the snow and ice on the mountain we had to come I-40. We did see Dolly twice opening day.
I consider that Dolly could be my "best friend". I appreciate her humor and her frankness. I came from a similar background in Georgia to hers and can relate to some experiences. We were at her last concert last December. Her show was awesome and we were looking forward to coming again this year. She had lost her mother that week, but she was brave and I was so glad to see her. My mother was diagnosed last March with Alzcheimers and I was moved to tears by her mention of her mother.
One very cute story to me-- in the year 2000 we were blessed by God with a grandson that seems to be kissed by God. He is a bright, blonde and a handsome little fellow that has been coming to Dollywood since before he was born. His parents have been coming with us and the other grandparents while in the womb. There are 7 adults (2 sets of grandparents and an uncle) that come together. He thinks that going to the mountains means Dollywood. We were coming and he wanted to know if we going to Dollywood. I said that we would go the next day and we were going to see Dolly that day. He said, "What's a Dolly". I asked his PopPop to explain this. This year we went to see the acrobats and she came out. He looked at me and said so cutely, "I see the real Dolly". He was excited and the people around us were amazed at his vocabulary. He looks like he could be Dolly's child with the very blonde hair.
Sorry to bother you with the story, but having Dollywood has given our family a place to go where children enjoy and we get to be a part of a wonderful day as a family!
You keep up the good work and I will continue to check your website daily.
Linda Smith
Gainesville, Ga.
Thank you, Linda, for your kind words and the cute story. It certainly wasn't a bother, as I always enjoy hearing other fans relate the tales of what Dolly means in their lives.

May 4, 2004
The controversy over a recent decision by Dolly's theme park, Dollywood, to prohibit organizers of a Gay Day event at the park later this month to use its trademarked logo and name without permission has spawned much press coverage and sometimes heated discussion among Dolly's fans. Below is a letter from a reader supporting the park's decision as well as a statement released to the site Monday by the head of the event's organizers. The third piece is an editorial commentary by your webmaster. Hopefully, this free exchange of ideas will help pacify the situation somewhat or at least help people take a more thought-out perspective. (Note: Letters received in response to these items have been posted following the above-referenced comments.)

April 30, 2004
I first heard this song and cried. You see, I have two sons serving in our Armed Forces. One is in the U. S. Navy while my oldest son is serving in the U. S. Army with the 10th Mountain Division and was deployed in Afghanistan when he was injured in a fire fight where 2 of his friends were killed. When I was alone at home one night, waiting for them to fly him into Walter Reed Army Medical Center from Germany, I couldn't help but think about how thankful I was he was coming home, there are no words to convey the joy I felt at the thought of his homecoming. I also couldn't help thinking about the families of the 2 brave soldiers whose son's weren't coming home. We must never forget the sacrifices these brave soldiers have made with the loss of their lives as well as the ones who are having to learn how to live with life-changing disabilities. Mrs. Parton, this Infantry soldier & Navy Airman's mom thanks you and may God bless you and your family.
Billie
Choctaw, Okla.
Thank you for your letter. Hopefully Dolly will see it here. Yes, "Welcome Home" is a truly moving song and a wonderful tribute to our brave men and women overseas.

April 30, 2004
Do you have any idea as to how i can send a song to dolly? I would freally appriciate it if you could let me know if you do have any idea. I ahve written se4veral songs for her and reba mcentire to sing together. Thanks!
Michelle Ivey
Benton, Ark.
I get asked this question frequently, and my answer is that I suspect Dolly and Reba are both like just about all professional singers in that they do not accept unsolicited songs, especially if the songs have yet to be published by a music publishing company. The main reason is a liability issue. If person A sends a song to person B and person B does not record it, but years later a song person B writes is in any way similar to the song person A sent in, then person A could sue claiming person B's song was stolen from him or her. This happened to Dolly with "9 To 5," when a songwriter claimed to have given a similar song to Jane Fonda and accused Fonda and Dolly of stealing his work and sued. Dolly, of course, was found innocent in court, but something like that is the ultimate insult to a songwriter and happens frequently enough that most performers have that rule. If you want to go ahead and send them anyway, there's no way for anyone to stop you.

April 29, 2004
It totally blows me away how people say some really nasty comments about Dolly Parton. I don't get it. What is there to say about Dolly that is bad? ...Nothing that I can think of. I only have nice things to say about Dolly. I could go on forever, too. Dolly is just simply a wonderful, loving person. I always stick up for Dolly if someone makes a negative remark about her. And a lot of times their comments are so offensive, I get really upset. It's like someone talking bad about our Mama. A really big no-no. Any suggestions about how to handle this situation? How has other Dolly fans handled these kind of mean people? I have been a fan for 22 years and I absolutely love Dolly. She will always be my all-time favorite Angel.
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
Unfortunately, many people can't get past the big hair and big boobs to see the talent, brains and heart beneath it all. Some cannot accept her sometimes bawdy behavior, risqué dress and sexual comments. Others cannot accept her acceptance of her large gay and lesbian fan base. Others cannot accept her public professions of her love for God, even though she is not active in any organized religious denomination. You'll never please everyone. So I suggest simply reminding them of her many accomplishments (24 No. 1 country hits, 40 top 10 country albums, seven Grammy Awards, nine CMAs, an Oscar nomination, an Emmy nomination, and more), her big heart (distributing more than 1 million free books annually to children nationwide), her bubby personality, her business acumen (a net worth in the hundreds of millions of dollars), and the fact that we all admire different people for different reasons. And, of course, one man's trash is another's treasure.

April 29, 2004
To whom it may concern: Is there any address to which I can write to Ms. Parton? I am a big fan and her music helped me through my clinical depression. I would at least love to have some opportunity to thank Ms. Parton and let her know how much she is loved.
Blair James Lasley
Houston, Texas
Dolly's two addresses which have been published as locations to which fan mail may be directed are available on the site's Frequently Asked Questions page here.

April 27, 2004
hi. im a fan from england and would love to know of any uk sites for dolly. i would love to visit dollywood one day and send an email to dolly herself dont know if i would get a reply.
Karen Durocher
Leicester
Leicestershire, England
Thanks, Karen, for your letter. I know of one site headquartered in the U.K., Dolly Parton World. As for writing Dolly, she doesn't have a public e-mail address, but her fan mail addresses are available on the site's Frequently Asked Questions page.

April 26, 2004
Hi. I missed Dolly's episode of stacked both times it aired on CMT =(. I was wondering if they'll repeat it again anytime soon so I could see it?
Meg
Haverhill, Mass.
CMT repeated the half-hour show on Saturday afternoon, but it's not on their schedule for any future broadcasts at this time. If it is scheduled again, the listing will show up on the right-hand side of Dollymania's news page under the TV appearances section. The network has yet to announce its Stacked episodes airing from May 10 on, so it is possible Dolly's could be repeated at that time. UPDATE: April 28 -- CMT has tentatively scheduled the episode to repeat at 10:30 p.m. Eastern on May 24 and 11:30 p.m. on May 28.

April 13, 2004
best web site i have ever seen. i also like all your pictures of dolly at dollywood opening. i was there, but your pictures turned out alot better then mine. do you have any pictures of her husband? Thanks
Harold Gasaway
Hillsboro, Ohio
Thanks so much for your kind words. (I tried to send you a personal note of appreciation, but there must have been an error in the e-mail address you had typed in because it was returned to me.) Unfortunately, I don't have any photos of her husband online. Dolly did release three or four shots of him in her 1994 autobiography, Dolly: My Life And Other Unfinished Business, and there have been one or two other photos of him made available over the years, but he remains a very private person who is never interviewed and rarely likes to be photographed. I try to only post on the site those shots for which permission has been granted to publish, either to me personally by the photographer or in general by the release of publicity photos. Since neither applies to the few publicly-known shots of Carl Dean, they don't appear here.

April 10, 2004
Just wanted to say thank you because this is by far the best Dolly site I've ever seen. It contains all the information I needed, everything is very orderly and easy to find. Great job!
Maria
Sofia, Bulgaria
Thank you so much. What kind words. I'm glad you like it. I always love to hear from other Dolly fans who enjoy the site, especially those from overseas.

April 10, 2004
Hey Duane! Love all the Dollywood coverage!!! I am really excited for the Flameworthy Awards, and I was wondering...are they going to have the red carpet ceremony on TV and also the preparty etc. I am positive this will be the best flameworthy awards yet! thanks duane.
Michelle
Ottawa, Ont., Canada
Thanks. I'm glad you're enjoying the photos so far. Yes, a red carpet Flame Worthy arrival is scheduled, where stars will be interviewed by Katie Cook, and it will be covered as part of the pre-party hosted by Cledus T. Judd (and featuring live performances by Trace Adkins, Dierks Bently and Gretchen Wilson), airing from 6:30 p.m. Eastern until the awards show starts at 8 p.m. Eastern April 21. And, yes, I'm sure with Dolly at the helm, the awards will be the best ever!

April 10, 2004
Just wanted to email you a note. I really enjoyed the new photos from Dolly's opening weekend at Dollywood. Dolly is a mess, ain't she? LOL. But we all love her!! :) Many thanks to all of those who sent in the photos for this site.
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
Thanks so much for your letter. Right now, only one fan has sent in some photos (Thanks, Jason!), but if anyone else wants to, I hope they will (just e-mail them to dgordon@dollymania.net!). I have several galleries of my photos up, and some from my assistant photographer for the weekend will also be going up soon, so keep an eye out for them :)

April 9, 2004
Duane: Incredible pictures of Dolly in concert! You must have had a great spot and/or an excellent camera. Thanks.
Bob Seguin
Toronto, Ont., Canada
Thanks, Bob. It was both, actually. I have a good camera (it better be for what I paid for it!), and for the shots in the green dress, I was on the front row. For the shots in the peasant girl outfit, I was in the eighth row. Plus, one of the lessons I learned from back in my newspaper days is that the secret to getting good shots is to take a ton of them. I took more than 350 photos at the opening weekend festivities and considered about 90 good enough to post on the site. (All of the ones I took are up that I'm going to have on here, but look for some from other photographers throughout the next several days!)

April 8, 2004
I just wanted to thank you for answering my email about Dolly's album Rainbow. I just wanted to let you know that I just went to e-bay and won a cd of Rainbow and should have it by next week. So thanks for the ideas on how to get it. Also this site is awesome and as a devoted Dolly fan thanks for keeping it going.
Andrew Thompson
Richmond, Va.
Thanks, Andrew. Glad I could help out!

April 7, 2004
I was reading your April 5 news. I'm not sure if i understood you correctly. Is Dolly going be doing some quest spots on the Kenny Chesey tour this summer and another question is Dolly going be at Dollywood this thursday (April 8) via satalite for the Ryan seacrest show? If so will she be making apperances in the park like she did this past weekend.
jenny
Orlando, Fla.
I'm sorry if the report was confusing. No, Dolly is not doing any guest spots on the tour. The item on the news page was simply saying that CMT's new news program, CMT Insider, premiering on Friday, will have an interview with Dolly about her hosting the Flame Worthy Awards as well as stories on Kenny Chesney's tour and the other items listed in the report. As for the Seacrest show, they have announced that she will be appearing via satellite from Dollywood. As the show airs live, it would be expected that her interview will likewise be live from the park. Dollywood has not announced any scheduled events that day, so it is not likely that she will make any other public appearances, even though she will be on the park's grounds for the interview.

April 1, 2004
Hey there, First of all-love your site! Do you know if Dolly will be at Dollywood all day or not on opening day?? Thanks for any info
Shelli
Corbin, Ky.
Thanks for your note, Shelli. Dollywood officials never release Dolly's schedule before opening day, so there's no way of knowing. In some years past, she has made five or six appearances throughout the day around the park, and in other years, she has only made one or two. We'll just have to wait to find out!

March 31, 2004
Hello. My name is Stephanie Kauffman. The reason I am writing is because of my Mother n law. I realize you have not way of letting Dolly know about this or you have no way of responding to her. I was just wondering if you could please tell me how? The reason is that my mother n law would like to place a quilt on e bay that she quilted. She would like to name the quilt after one of Dolly parton's songs Coat of Many Colors and before she put it on e bay to sell it she wanted to get permission from Dolly Parton. Could you please tell me how I could ask dolly this question. The more help you can give me the better. Thank you for your time.
Stephanie Kauffman
Allensville, Penn.
I doubt your mother-in-law would need to seek permission to name the quilt "Coat Of Many Colors." The title is used commonly enough in the English language in relation to the story of Joseph from the Bible that there shouldn't be any copyright infringement issues associated with using it to describe a multi-colored quilt.

March 31, 2004
I would like to know if Dolly Parton is going to retire from showbiz? and Why would she? Does she plan on comeing to Michigan in the furture? How can I get a signed picture of her and can she make out to my Husban Bobby? I am looking forward to seeing Dolly Parton when and if I ever get down to Pigon Forge someday. Thank you.
Donna Somerville
Garden City, Mich.
Dolly has said many times that she plans never to retire, that she wants to continue performing and recording music until the day she dies. Alas, she won't be in Michigan in the near future, as she has no plans to tour in 2004. For your final question, I understand that she rarely provides autographed photos any more due to the time constraints and the numerous requests she receives for them. However, if you want to try, you may write her in care of her Nashville office, the address for which is on the FAQ page of the site here.

March 29, 2004
I am looking for a song Dolly Parton and Kenny Rodgers sang together. Not Islands in the Stream. I can't remember the title. Could you please help me. If I saw some of the lyrics I might remember. Could be "Real Love"?
Lexi Sabor
Johnsburg, Ill.
Could be. The chorus to "Real Love" is: "We got real love, not infatuation. Real love, not an imitation. Baby, you and me, we got everything we need. We got real love." Other possibilities, assuming it's not one of their holiday tunes from their Christmas album Once Upon A Christmas, are the duet "Love Is Strange" from Kenny's 1990 album of the same name or "Undercover" from his new CD Back To The Well. While Dolly's 1985 album Real Love which contained the duet is no longer in print, the song is available on several compilation CDs, including Legendary and Love Songs.

March 29, 2004
I think I've got a great trivia quwstion. What was the song that Dolly rewrote for Unlikly Angel? It was a song from her 1987 album Rainbow originally called More Than I Can Say. I have also been looking for this album on cd any idea where I could find it. Thanks,
20yr devoted fan
Andrew Thompson
Richmond, Va.
I knew of the song, as it's one of a handful of melodies she has recycled for a subsequent song. As for finding a copy of the CD, it is uncommon, but not impossible. CDs were just catching on in the U.S. when the album came out in 1987, so quite a few were made of it. I've seen probably a dozen for auction on ebay over the past three or four years, and you might also look into promusicfind.com or gemm.com, which host sale lists from hundreds of music retailers. Also, if a fan out there has an extra copy to sell, they might get in touch with you as well :)

March 27, 2004
Duane, Do you know what section of Dollywood the new roller coaster was built? And if they removed any rides or parts of the park to make room for the new attraction. I remember back when they built Daredevil Falls they removed the flooded mine. I hope this time around they dont remove anything to make room for the new part... Thanks so much.
Beth
Houston, Texas
No, they did not remove anything for the new Thunderhead roller coaster. Instead, it was built in a new section of the park, its first expansion since the addition of Dollywood Boulevard in 1996. Thunderhead Gap will be a five-acre new area of the park anchored by the roller coaster. It is adjacent to the Showstreet area and is connected to it under a new railroad trestle for the Dollywood Express, which is why the train was down during the Christmas season.

March 20, 2004
Can you tell us why Dolly is not having her annual Christmas Benefit Concert? Thanks,
Rhonda
Charleston, S.C.
Unfortunately, Dolly hasn't offered a detailed explanation of why she chose not to have the concerts this year. The only information which has been released is that she is changing her schedule to make more public appearances throughout the year at Dollywood, and dropping the concerts is just part of that new schedule. However, she is expected to be involved in other fund-raising efforts for her Dollywood Foundation later in the year, although they haven't been announced yet.

March 19, 2004
Duane: First, I have to say how much I love your site. It's the first place I check every morning for up-to-date Dolly information. Second, I've always wondered how Dolly came up with the name "Blue Eyed Records"? Thanks so much!
Bridget
Thanks, Bridget. Unfortunately, off the top of my head, I can't recall her saying why she chose to name her record label Blue Eye Records. Maybe someone else out there has an idea.

March 18, 2004
I need some help. I am doing a report on dolly parton if anyone can help me my email address is wms_razor_chic2002@yahoo.com. I need information as soon as possible! thanks for all ya help!
LeeAnn Hendrix
Walhalla, S.C.
I welcome you to check out the various parts of the site for more information on Dolly. Or if you have a specific question, please ask me and I'll do my best to answer. Best of luck on your report!

March 15, 2004
(I don't know how to get this message to Dolly...I hope it reaches her somehow.) Dear Dolly, This morning we dropped Daddy off on base. He is flying to Korea for an extended field exercise. It was a little tougher on our two daughters. They are 8 and 4, and vividly remember the cold morning last January, when we dropped Daddy off for another, much longer "deployment." As we got back into the car and left the parking lot, I made sure that I had cued-up "Brave Little Soldier" off of your God and Country CD. A few tears fell. Then they asked me to replay it for them. By the time we pulled into the driveway, they had decided that they had to keep their chins up too. THANK YOU for this CD. It is an incredible blessing to this military family. I appreciate the hymns, humor and patriotic music. The girls already know all of the lyrics to "Welcome Home" (and our 4 year old is determined to have a red, white and blue outfit JUST like the one you wear in the video). The ripple effect of this project will be eternal...Our sincere appreciation,
LaRae Cross, Wife of Sgt. Todd Cross, US Army
Hinesville, Ga.
Thank you for your letter. Yes, For God And Country has certainly struck a chord with those who know and love current and former members of our armed forces. And it might interest you to know that "Brave Little Soldier" was written by Dolly in honor of a niece who at the time was battling leukemia and now has fully recovered. I know its message is helping many children whose parents are away at this time. Although I cannot forward your letter to her, there is a chance that Dolly will see it on the site here. I know she would appreciate it.

March 15, 2004
hi, just a few questions. im a huge huge fan of dolly and have been for years. i have sent her a few letters to her home address. do u know if she reads letters sent to her? im 21 years old and im finally going to dollywood in august. im so excited about it but the only thing is im going on my own so do u know of any way i might get to see her? it would make my holiday very special. i think she is so amazing and her music has got me through some really hard times.we love u dolly!!xxx
Debbie
Edinburgh, Scotland
Best wishes on your trip to Dollywood -- I know you'll love it. I'm told that she does read some of the fan mail that is sent to her, although she gets so much I'm sure she can't personally read it all. As for meeting her, that is very rare. She usually doesn't do "meet-and-greets" except for once a year or so for major donors to her charitable foundations and when she does a CD signing in a major city for a new album. She has only been at the park three or four times a year in recent years, but has said she expects to be there a little more in 2004. Still, when she is there she usually makes a handful of public appearances where you can see her in person, but you don't have an opportunity to actually meet her. These appearances usually aren't announced until a few weeks before they occur, so I don't know if she'll be there in August or not yet. Right now, the only appearances that have been announced are those for the park's annual season opening weekend in April.

March 13, 2004
I have always been a fan of Dolly's. I teach pre-school and read to my children 2 or 3 books each class time. I had read a book to them called "A New Coat For Anna" and it stuck me that Dolly with all her talent and her support of books for children that she should make a childrens book out of her song, "A Coat of Many Colors". It would be so perfect and I know that children would love it. Just a thought, and hoped that just maybe she would see my suggestion.
Cheri Heller
Armour, S.D.
First, I must commend you on your work with children. There are few professions which have as great an impact on society as that of teacher. Regarding the song, in 1994, Harper Collins did publish an illustrated children's storybook version. Scholastic also issued a paperback version for sale to schools, and Harper Trophy issued a general release paperback. It's no longer actively in production, but there are still many copies out there in some stores. I know Amazon.com still carries it in both the paperback here and library bound version here ( and ) and has many affiliated retailers who have copies of the hardcover original issue available here. Perhaps you could pick one up for your students.

March 12, 2004
Hey! Dolly or whoever reads this! Just wanted to say Dolly is great! I'm really a Shania fan but love Dolly! (was at shania's glasgow concert last night! awesome) I mean come on my name is Joeleen is'nt it! of course I like Dolly!..lol Especially 9 to 5 song and movie, recentley bought "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" DVD what a funny film! Also no one has any idea how many times people have sang "Joeleen Joeleen Joeleen Joeleen" to me! I'm 18 years old everyone I meet sings it! I'll ocassionally come across someone who says have you heard that song??? I'm like NO!? what one is that then!? I mean do they think they are the first ones ever to say that?..lmao I'd love to see Dolly one day! I've met Shania next on my list is Dolly! I think it would be totally cool!!
Joeleen McBride
Hamilton, Scotland
Thanks, Joeleen. Hope you get to meet her someday!

March 11, 2004
Thanks for the wonderful website...it keeps me informed about all things related to Dolly. Question: I recently discovered an old song Dolly wrote (from 1977, I believe) called: "Me and Little Andy." I think it is a very charming song -- except for one thing...It has a sad ending. I wonder if you can tell me anything about Dolly's inspiration for writing this song....and particularly why she chose to have the little girl and her puppy die at the end of the song? I loved hearing Dolly singing in the voice of a little girl...it was the perfect touch the song needed. And the melody is pretty -- but I sure wish it had a happier ending. Thanks for any insight you can give me into the story behind this song.
Dianne Carter
Panama City Beach, Fla.
Unfortunately, I don't believe Dolly has talked much about the inspiration for that particular song. She wrote it in the late 1960s or early 1970s, many years before she recorded it in 1977, and it is one of a couple dozen songs of great tragedy she has composed and recorded over the years. Frequently, these songs center on the loss of children, and country music fans often refer to them as "dead baby" songs. The general source for these types of songs are twofold: First, growing up in rural poverty with little access to healthcare, death was not that uncommon of an occurance. Each of the older youths in her family of 12 children took on the responsibility for caring for one of the new babies. When it was Dolly's turn, the baby died a few days after he was born, and the event had a tremendous impact on her. I suspect this was a great influence on her writing so many songs about children dying and going to heaven. Secondly, songs of tragedy are abundant in the Scotch-English-Irish folk ballads which the people of Appalachia sang constantly and which, combined with gospel, largely constituted the foundation for early country music. So in these types of songs, she continues that musical heritage in which she was raised. Dolly herself has recorded several of these Old World and early New World tunes, including "Barbara Allen," "Mary Of The Wild Moor" and "Letter To Heaven." Some in that similar vein which she has written include "Down From Dover," "The Party," "Jeannie's Afraid Of The Dark," "Silver Sandals," "The Bridge," "Malena," "Gypsy, Joe and Me," "Ragged Angel," "Where Beauty Lives In Memory" and "Mountain Angel."

March 11, 2004
I am looking to find a cd copy of the album Bubbling Over. I have been looking everywhere and am not having any luck so somebody please help. It is for my mother. This was her favorite and I would like to surprise her with it.
Sarah
Asheville, N.C.
Unfortunately, that album (like most of Dolly's records from the first 20 years of her career) has never been released on CD commercially. This means that the only way of finding a CD copy is to find someone who has the software to transfer the original vinyl album to compact disc, does it, and illegally sells or trades them. (Many of these show up on ebay from time to time, even though it is in violation of ebay policies to offer them.)

March 11, 2004
Hey!! First off, love your site! Usually check it once a day. I've been in the process of transferring my taped dolly music videos over to dvds. However, I don't have (nor have ever seen) the dance music video for Peace Train. I was wondering if you know how or where I could get a copy. I know it was never released, but it erks me not to have the complete collection before I burn a dvd. I've asked around other places and if you don't know, then I'll just tell myself it's not going to happen, have peace of mind, and finally burn the darn thing. Thanks,
Johnnie Gambill
Jonesboro, Ark.
Thanks for your kind words. Unfortunately, the video for Peace Train was never released commercially. They show it in Dolly's museum at Dollywood, but that's the only place I've ever seen it. There are a couple of tapes floating around where people went in the museum when it first opened (before they stopped allowing you to bring cameras in) who videotaped it, but they're shaky hand-held camera bootlegs, so I don't know if you could get your hands on one and whether it'd be good enough for you to use. You could always try posting the item on the Collectors' Connection page and see if you get any bites :)

March 11, 2004
Hey Duane. I have always wondered what kind of guitar Dolly plays. I know she plays many, but have you ever noticed what model she plays? thanks a lot! Dollymania is AWESOME!
Michelle
Ottawa, Ont., Canada
Thanks so much! Unfortunately, I'm no guitar expert, and I have no idea what model she plays. I can't tell a Fender from a Stratocaster :) I do know her first one was a Martin. She prefers standard sized acoustic guitars but smaller models of electric ones. She also plays in open tuning because it's easier to make the chords with her long nails, but that's about all I know on the subject. Sorry I couldn't be of more help. Perhaps someone else out there has a better idea and will pass it along after your letter is posted in tomorrow night's update.

March 11, 2004
Dear Sir, Could you please tell Dolly soldiers aren't the only ones died for but all of his children. I wrote this poem with my dulcimer because the music industry don't want us.
The Forgotten People
We have been forgotten
War and soldiers took our place
We may be disabled but we are still God's children
God's love comes us in an angel's face
II
Have you forgotten your disabled nieghbors
We were here long before 911
We're not asking for any for any of your favors
For peace not war to us come
DADG12/03
The Forgotten People II
God gave us to our parents out of love
Our parents help to bear our crosses
Angels watch over our parents from above
Our parents keep bullies from cutting our losses
DADG1/04
Prayer
When you say that the disabled are abnormalremember that nothing God makes is abnormal and God made us.When a disabled person dies her family and friends come to see her again.When our parents cry because they've lost a loved one God sends his angels to comfort them.God cries also because he lost another child.In God's eyes we were heroes to him.Our parents remind us that we be just as "normal" kids.My parents dried my tears because kids would tell me that I didn't belong and God's angels comforted me.God told that he would never let go of my hand.He loves me for I am and that he would never judge me as others do.
DADG1/04
PS On 23rd day of this month I'll be 52.
Diane Gentile
Naugatuck, Conn.
I'm sure that Dolly knows that the disabled play a vital role in our society. I know from first-hand experience from when I worked at a blindness research center in college and from two close friends living with muscular distrophy. I know Dolly holds an annual breakfast with children and adults facing terminal illness whose dying wish is to meet her, and many of them have dealt with disabilities for most of their lives, and they hold a special place in her heart.

March 6, 2004
I have followed Dolly's career for a long while and I loved the movie 9-5 I think that she is multi-talanted and God has blessed her tremendously. I also have a question on how I could contact her about being a key note speaker for a new cancer organization I feel that she would add the impact and star power needed for other's to take the Cervical Cancer Coalition of Tennessee on a more serious note. We are a 501c3 organization. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely Yours,
Navita A. Gunter
Hermitage, Tenn.
I'd suggest you write her Nashville office with your request. I'm sure she gets inundated with such offers to speak, so she cannot do them all. She normally makes appearances for at least two or three charities a year.

March 6, 2004
Dear Dolly, My 11 year old son just loves you. It all started when he found out we were taking him to Myrtle Beach to Dixie Stampede. He got all excited and couldn't wait. He thought he was going to get to see you, but unfortunately you were not there, but he still had a good time. I see that you will be in Pigeon Forge on the 2nd of April and again unfortunately we are coming up on the 3rd, hopefully one day he will get the honor to meet you in person. Sincerely, Delisa Norton
Wallace, S.C.
First, Dolly does not operate an official Web site (this is a fan site), so I cannot forward your message to her, but perhaps she will see it here and read it. Secondly, you're actually in luck if you're planning to be at Dollywood on April 3. While her parade through Pigeon Forge is on April 2, Dolly always makes at least a couple of appearances (including usually a parade through the park grounds) at Dollywood's season opening day, which is April 3. Keep an eye out for her then!

March 1, 2004
I loved the CBS profile that was on this morning. But there was just one little mistake: Dan Rather claimed the Porter Wagoner show was local. It was, of course, syndicated from coast to coast, and into Canada.
Frank
Ottawa, Canada
Right you are, Frank.

Feb. 27, 2004
I would like to know how I can find out where Dolly will be performing this year 2004. We went to Dollywood hoping to see her but she had left at 10:30 that morning and we did not get there until 2:30. My husband and I would love to see her in person and see one of her performances. Can you help in this matter? I would appreciate it and if you could let me know how I can get this info. every year, I would appreciate that as well. Does she ever perform in Branson, Mo? We go there quite often. Thank you.
Sharon Bates
Waco, Texas
Unfortunately, I don't think I can help you out much. Dolly has decided not to tour this year, so she does not have any concerts scheduled. She has indicated that she plans to be at Dollywood a little more frequently this year than in years past for public appearances, but I doubt any of those will be concerts. Also, other than announcing that she will be there on a certain day, the park usually does not release any schedule giving the times that she will make appearances, so you kind of have to be there all day to catch a glimpse of her. Her schedule for appearances at the park for the year has not been released (they normally announce her being there a few weeks before it happens, and they'll be noted on the Dollymania news page as soon as they're announced) except for the traditional season opening weekend festivities, when she will have a parade through town on April 2 and be on the park grounds on opening day, April 3. Finally, while she's made one or two appearances in Branson over the years, she does not perform there on any kind of regular basis.

Feb. 25, 2004
Dear Dolly, My husband & I first saw you at the race track in Coeburn,VA. You were with Porter Wagner. We really loved your talent & the way you have with people. The next time we saw you was in a concert with Ronnie Milsap & Freddie Hart. You really stole the show. When the concert was over, you were doing autographs, my husband, (who has passed away) sinse then offered you a dollar for a kiss, you said sure, when he went to kiss you his eyes went cross, we teased him about it for years, but after you kissed him, you autographed his dollar & gave it back to him, Freddie also autographed it. I still have the dollar bill, & his kids get to brag ,my daddy got to kiss Dolly Parton. I want to thank you very much for that, because in some of our lives things like that mean a whole lot. I consider you a wonderful woman & a admire your family ties. One of only Your Greatest Fans,
Brenda Stapleton
Wise
Va.
What a sweet story. Hopefully, Dolly will see your letter and it will put a smile on her face. Thanks for sharing it.

Feb. 24, 2004
I was interested to read your item about the re-hashing of Dolly Partons' unfortunate remarks some time ago which were interpreted as being anti-semitic. I was surprised this was raised again, as Dolly has made a full apology and explained her remarks. Her remarks were mis-informed & naive, but Dolly is the last person to be an anti-Semite. As a jew who is very concerned at the rise in anti-semitism over the past few years, especially here in europe, I find it sad that Dollys' remarks were used to illustrate the spread of anti-jewish prejudice. Certainly here in the UK, there are many examples of prominent people, including Members of Parliament, making anti-semitic comments. These are truly hateful, harmful and disturbing. To use Dollys quote I feel undermines the important case about the spread and widespread acceptance of anti-semitic stereotypes in recent years. As someone who would never wish to let any anti-semite off the hook, I see Dolly as the very opposite of the anti-semite, racist or bigot. I know most jews who know anything about Dolly will reach the same conclusions I have about her.
Clive Marcus
London, England
Thank you, Clive, for your insight from a Jewish fan's perspective. I, too, understood how her statement was misinterpreted when it first came out, and thought it was right that she explain what she meant and offer an apology for what she said, so the incident itself really didn't make me angry. But what did upset me was dredging it up again when it was not necessary and there are so many real examples of anti-Semitism from which Mr. Foxman could have chosen to represent it in his book.

Feb. 24, 2004
Dear Duane, Just a little note to let you know how much I enjoy your web site I have looked at some of the others but yours is the best. Keep up the good work! A #1 Dolly fan. Thanks,
Kim Stover
Beckley, W.V.
Thanks, Kim, for your kind words of encouragement. They mean a lot.

Feb. 23, 2004
Hello, Well I haven't read or seen anything more about a Dolly spring concert tour, so I guess it was just a bad rumor again. Dolly needs to get out with her fans if she ever expects to get any air play on the radio stations. Just my opinion, disappointed again.
Mike Wargo
Lehighton, Pa.
Yes, Dolly did plan to tour. She had at first said it would be in the fall of 2003, then by fall pushed it back to the spring of 2004. However, when plans had not materialized by early this year, I contacted her, and she released a letter to her fans through Dollymania on Jan. 26 to explain that she wasn't going to tour and why -- She made several promotional appearances to promote the tribute album and For God And Country in the fall and came to a decision with her record label at that time that the publicity schedule prevented her from devoting the time needed for a tour. Now, she anticipates another major publicity effort later this year to push For God And Country and promote multiple singles from the CD, so she does not expect to tour in 2004. Read her full letter here, and see CMT.com's coverage of the letter here. As for touring getting her back on radio, I don't think it would have much impact. She toured with sold-out shows in 13 major U.S. cities in 2002 to promote Halos & Horns with no resulting radio airplay -- the only song from the album to chart was "Hello God," logging just one week on the chart at No. 60 due solely to her performance of it on that year's CMA Awards.

Feb. 20, 2004
I am looking for any VHS live shows featuring Dolly Parton. Can you help? Please e-mail.
Barry Long
Ulverstone
Tasmania, Australia
Unfortunately, there have not been many live shows of Dolly's released commercially. Basically, you have two or three videos with one or two live songs included, and the concert videos from her 1983 and 1985 HBO concerts (Live In London and Kenny & Dolly: Real Love), but both have been out of print for several years now (they do show up frequently on ebay, though). Some fans have videos they've taped at various events which are traded, so you might have some luck there. I could post your listing on the Collectors' Connection page of the site, where if someone has a tape to sell or trade, they could e-mail you directly. If you'd like for me to do that, please let me know.

Feb. 20, 2004
Is it possible for Nora Jones to release her duet with Dolly to country radio? I realize that she isn't "country" but Dolly is and the song has a country/bluegrass feel. Also, do you know what happened to the duet that Dolly and Bette Midler was suppose to do? Thanks.
Joseph Nunn
St. Louis, Mo.
Anything is possible :) Actually, since Dolly is on her own label (Blue Eye -- she just leases her masters to Sugar Hill for distribution), she could approve releasing the song without any problem. The only hang-up would be whether Norah Jones' label wishes to release it as a single. As for Bette, while they each mentioned casually when she appeared on Bette's show that they might like to record together, nothing was ever planned to my knowledge, so it still could happen at some point in the future.

Feb. 19, 2004
I think Dolly Is the greatest. I have listened to Dolly since I was a kid. I love seeing her and Melissa singing together. Dolly's music is so different from Melissa. I think Dolly put alittle twist to Melissa's song Bring Me Some Water. The whole show was wonderful. I was wondering if by chance this show with Dolly and Melissa would be coming back on soon. I noticed today that the show with Martina and Pat came back on. I would love to see the show with Dolly and Melissa again--------I would love to beable to buy a video tape or dvd of that show.
Tina McIntyre
Delhi, La.
Yes, the show was amazing! I loved it and wish they'd perform together again soon. Currently, CMT does not have the show scheduled for repeats anytime between now and early March -- the schedule for mid-March and beyond hasn't been released yet. Typically, they'll wait a while and then repeat them for a couple of weeks, so I'd expect to see it on the air again sometime in the future, but it may be a few months down the road. Of course, as soon as repeat dates are announced, they will be listed on the TV schedule available on the right-hand side of the Dollymania news page. Alas, CMT does not currently release the Crossroads concerts on DVD or VHS, but I surely wish they would! UPDATE: April 28 -- CMT has tentatively scheduled the episode to repeat at 2 p.m. Eastern on May 31.

Feb. 17, 2004
I'm just replying in response to the letter below from January. Yesterday, I was looking through the For God And Country booklet, and I noticed that in three of the pictures Dolly is wearing a necklace.
Lauren
Virginia Beach, Va.
Thanks for the comment, but actually in two of those photos she is not wearing a necklace, but rather Army dog tags as part of the military camoflage costume she has on. So rather than looking at it as jewelry, it's more just a costume accessory, similar to the fact that she wore a "Doralee" necklace in 9 To 5 because it was part of the character's costume. Although that is a good observation. Another reader, however, pointed out that while she rarely ever wears necklaces in public, there are a few shots of her with them on. The final pic in the For God And Country artwork shows her wearing some sort of green jeweled necklace as she stands with the special forces troops. In a First magazine article in 1993, she dons a double-looped pearl necklace in one shot and a black beaded necklace in another (the same one she had on in a 1992 McCall's cover shoot). And she had a gold and purple jeweled necklace in another McCall's appearance in 1996. So, while she doesn't wear them frequently, there have been a few times she has. My bad :) Thanks, Greg!

Feb. 17, 2004
Hi. The Billboard website currently has a download available of Mandy's Jolene, from the trib. CD. The download is good for 30 days, and can be found in the digital download section.
Frank
Ottawa, Canada
Thanks, Frank. I had seen that before and thought I had mentioned it on the news page, but perhaps I did not. The free download was originally posted on Billboard to promote the tribute album Just Because I'm A Woman: Songs Of Dolly Parton and has been available for about five months now. I'm surprised they still have it up. Thanks, again, for pointing it out.

Feb. 11, 2004
Do you know how many CD's "Just Because I'm A Woman: Songs of Dolly Parton" has sold so far, and Also how many CD's "For God And Country" has sold.
Jessica, New York, N.Y.
Unfortunately, Sugar Hill Records stopped reporting sales figures to Dollymania a year ago, so I don't have any concrete numbers. However, based on chart performance, I would estimate that Just Because I'm A Woman: Songs Of Dolly Parton has sold somewhere between 175,000 and 200,000 units since its release in October, making it a very successful release for an independent label. For God And Country, on the other hand, hasn't done well. It logged just five weeks on the country chart, most of those near the bottom of the 75-position tally. I would estimate it has moved only about 20,000, maybe 25,000, copies in the 13 weeks since its release. Hopefully, the new video for "Welcome Home" and promotional appearances she has said she plans to do later in the year will bolster sales, but as of now, the album is a huge flop, offering one of the worst chart runs of her career. The only albums of hers to have spent less time on the charts were her 1990 Christmas album with two chart weeks, but that is not very unusual for holiday releases, and her first live album in 1970, with four weeks. As a comparison, her three "roots music" releases on Sugar Hill Records prior to God have sold about 200,000 copies each.

Feb. 11, 2004
I just want to know where Dolly buys her bras. I like Dolly am here same bra size and I am having a hard time finding a good bra that will hold my chest up. She always looks so great so I thought maybe I could find out where she bra shops.
Lisa Sadler
Nashville, Tenn.
Well, I don't think Dolly has really ever talked much about where she gets her bras, but my suspicion is that she most likely has them specially made, just as she does most of her clothing. However, there are many other well-endowed women in America who can't afford personal designers, so I'm sure there are stores out there that cater to this need. If any readers have suggestions, please send them along.

Feb. 9, 2004
Hi Duane, I just wanted to send you note saying that I love your site. Some people choose to be childish and very immature by saying negative things about Dollymania.net. You would think that they could at least post their true names and not some that are obviously made up. Could it be that they are jealous and too afraid to say who they really are? Who knows, maybe "Tommy Hilfiger" will post next. You have the most frequently updated and informative Dolly site that there is. I am a huge fan of Dolly's and I think it is great, as Im sure most all of your readers do, that you take the time out of your schedule to update every night even if there isn't any big news. Thank you for all the great work!
Emily
Gallatin, Tenn.
Thanks, Emily, for your thoughts and support.

Feb. 9, 2004
Hi Duane. I agree with James dont listen to anyone who puts you're site down! I think all us devoted Dolly fans would be lost without you're wonderful site. And why not mention that you're the only site to post news everyday, you should be very proud. And i enyoy reading a litttle info about the webmasters.
Paul
England
Thanks, Paul.

Feb. 9, 2004
HI! I was wondering if Dolly is on the Toby Keith Video I Love This Bar? Can you tell me? Also I had an idea for the site. You could have a game where your DOlly. You have a certian amount of toime to get to the stage to sing. Heres the catch. You ahve to avoid or get past al sorts of obsticles. FOr instance, fans your managesr, etc. If you make it you wein points. And you could have these pointsa to where howe well you did. At the end of each month, if you have the most points you could win something! What do you think?
Michelle Ivey
Benton, Ark.
No, that's a look-a-like on his video. However, he does consider himself a major Dolly fan, and he mentioned this when asked recently on Larry King Live whether that was Dolly in the video or not, saying about Dolly: "I love that lady!." The game idea is quite creative, although I'm not really sure how it could be put together on the site they way you describe. I'll be thinking about that :) Thanks!

Feb. 5, 2004
Can you please tell me who sings the song that Dolly wrote Dear God. I Can't find it anywhere. I am not sure that she even wrote it. I heard her sing in on the web and than they took it away. I was great. I loved it. Thanks, Debbie
Sanford, Fla.
The track you're thinking of is most likely "Hello God," which appeared on her 2002 CD Halos & Horns. She performed the song on the 2002 CMA Awards and wrote it in response to the Sept. 11th terrorist attacks.

Jan. 29, 2004
Duane, don't listen to ANYONE that slams your site. Some people are not happy unless they criticize others. You should be VERY proud of this site and Dolly would (if she hasn't already seen it) be very honored by everything in here. It makes me upset when people bad-mouth others when they DON'T know what they are talking about. Another letter that upset me was the one knocking Dolly for her song "Brave Little Soldier" when she didn't even know what it was REALLY about. I feel everyone is entitled to their own opinions and should be able to voice them - just get your facts straight first. Anyway, I still look forward to visiting your site everyday - and DON'T change a thing! It's PERFECT the way it is!!!
James
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Thanks, James, for sharing your opinion. As with the other letter, I'm glad to provide a forum for you to express it. And thanks for your readership!

Jan. 28, 2004
Salutations Mr.Gordon,
      I work in Nashville as an A&R coordinator for a record company. I stumbled across your website while in search of a few things on Dolly. While I feel it is a nice, very informative Dolly website, I also find it to be a tribute to yourself- perhaps you should change the name?
      To be perfectly honest with you, I do not care that you were the first to report whatever news, as long as I get it. Maybe you can come off your high horse just a tad and worry about the real focus on your site- Dolly and making sure her fans recieve the best up to date information. In the end, promoting her is all that truly matters, correct?
      I wish you luck on your venture on the www. I am somewhat surprised that you are a Media Professional. I would feel you, if anyone, would know some of these "do's and dont's" of running a Celebrity Website.
      Also, make sure you note that your site was the first and only to recieve this email from me!
Thank You,
Ralph Loren
Nashville, Tenn.
Thank you for your letter. I value all readers' opinions on the site, both positive and negative. I regret that you feel the way you do about the site, but everyone has the right to his or her own opinion, and I am happy to provide a forum in which you may express it. I suppose the flavor of the site comes from the fact that I do not consider it to be just an ordinary fan dedication page. As my background is a journalist, I view the site as more of an online newsmagazine which happens to focus on Dolly. As such, I hold it to the standards and practices of the professional journalism community more so than to any informal "dos and don'ts" of celebrity fan sites. Since she has no official Web site other than those for her business interests, it is up to sites like Dollymania to provide news on her career to her fans, and I strive to offer the best and most accurate information to the readers. Other than the tiny butterfly icon to note first publication anywhere of stories here in the "Dolly Year In Review," there have been hardly any "you read it here first" comments published on the site in the past several months. And other than the standard "About The Webmaster" page, a page offering to check Dolly facts for news stories (a service which has been used by two major daily newspapers and two national magazines since I began offering it a few months ago) and the occasional mention that I was personally involved in something Dolly-related and newsworthy, such as this week's TRIO documentary, there are no "tributes" to me, either. The readers seem to like the site, as I've only received five or six negative opinions such as yours over the past five years but usually have four or five dozen positive e-mails about the site every week. Again, thank you for sharing your opinion.

Jan. 28, 2004
are there any recordings of any of dolly's songs from smoky mountain christmas available anywhere?
Kris
Pennsylvania
Unfortunately, she has never recorded any of the great songs from A Smoky Mountain Christmas for her albums. Maybe someday!

Jan. 27, 2004
Hi, I was wondering if you could tell me if Dolly sang a song called: Now Ya See Me Now Ya Don't. I heard it on the rdaio and I couldnt tell if it was her. Thanks alot! great site i come here everyday.
Jen
Baltimore, Md.
Thanks, Jen, for your letter. The song "Now You See Me Now You Don't" was a No. 12 country single for Lee Ann Womack from her 1998 album Some Things I Know. Yes, her voice does sound an awful lot like Dolly's, and she gets compared to her quite often by critics. She is best known for her smash hit "I Hope You Dance." Well-known songs from this particular album were her No. 2 singles "A Little Past Little Rock" and "I'll Think Of A Reason Later."

Jan. 26, 2004
Hi there, I'm a Dolly fan from the UK. Would just like to say "great site" Would also like to ask whether you know if there are any plans to re-issue Dolly/Porter's original albums on CD? I would dearly love to have them on CD. I've got several "best of"or greatest hits collections, but would really like to get the original albums.
Derrick Rendall
Scotland
Thanks, Derrick, for your letter. To my knowledge, there are no re-issues of her older material scheduled in the immediate future. However, given the success of Ultimate Dolly Parton and its Elvis Presley compilations, RCA parent company BMG is reportedly considering re-releasing some of Dolly's older albums or new compilations of songs from those albums. While the majority of recordings from her nearly 20 years at RCA are not available on CD, a few titles have been re-issued over the past five or six years and are available in many stores including 1977's Here You Come Again, 1971's Coat Of Many Colors, 1974's Jolene, 1978's Heartbreaker, and 1980's 9 To 5 And Odd Jobs. BMG re-issued her first RCA album, 1968's Just Because I'm A Woman, back in October, but I believe that was done to capitalize on the press surrounding the release of the tribute album Just Because I'm A Woman: Songs Of Dolly Parton in the same month. Also, her 1971 gospel album Golden Streets Of Glory has frequently been re-issued on various budget labels under both its original title and the title I Believe. And in England, Jolene was paired with 1973's My Tennessee Mountain Home and Coat Of Many Colors with 1971's Joshua in re-issues there. Perhaps we could see more classic Dolly out in the future if the merger of BMG and Sony Music goes through as planned, since the move would put her 1965-1967 Monument catalogue, 1968-1985 RCA catalogue and 1987-1995 Columbia catalogue all under one corporate ownership.

Jan. 17, 2004
First of all, I must tell you that I am a big fan (from overseas) of Dolly´s for almost 30 years; and (in my opinion) her album Just Because I´m a Woman is one of the best she ever recorded in country music generally. But there´s something I don´t understand: why Dolly hasn´t something on DVD - I think MUSIC, because she is singer, in the first case, and then she is an actor...I have DVD with Dolly from 1983 "Live from London", because I did that from original VHS tape. It is a good picture, but I prefer another shows in another places from other side of world... Is it any chance to hope for something like that ? I want to LOOK on Dolly FOREVER !!! On DVD !!! Shania Twain has four DVD...and what about Dolly ??? Thanks for your answers.
Sincerely yours,
Vladimir Pikora
Prague, Czech Republic
Unfortunately, there have not been many Dolly releases on DVD. Most of her movies have been released on DVD, at least in the U.S. -- 9 To 5, The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas, Steel Magnolias, Straight Talk, Unlikely Angel, Blue Valley Songbird and Frank McKlusky C.I. Many of these were also released on DVD outside the U.S. The only ones that haven't come out on DVD yet here are Rhinestone, Wild Texas Wind and A Smoky Mountain Christmas. Several other items have come out as well, including her work in the animated special The Magic School Bus, her cameo in Jackie's Back, appearances in a Bill Monroe tribute (here), Chet Atkins tribute (here), Legends (a country compilation DVD were she sings a couple of songs), and a 1972 documentary, The Nashville Sound, which contains one full song and part of another. While her 1983 London concert and 1984 concert with Kenny Rogers were issued on videotape shortly after they aired on American television, only the Kenny Rogers concert is available on DVD, but that's only in South Korea. And until an American-only release a few months ago, her music videos weren't available on DVD either. Dolly Parton: Behind The Scenes, which is sold exclusively at Wal-Mart, contains the videos for "Shine," "Dagger Through The Heart," "I'm Gone" and "Color Me America." There was a company a few years ago that had planned to put out a three-DVD set, apparently from one of her old television series, but that fell through and the DVDs were never released. I, personally, would love to see her 1970s and 1980s TV shows out on DVD as well as her live concerts. Perhaps the video companies don't think they'll sell well enough to justify releasing them, but I think enough people would buy them to at least turn a profit. Fortunately, as the technology to manufacture DVDs gets less and less expensive, more and more old television programs and movies and concerts are being issued on that format, so I think it's only a matter of time before we start seeing some more Dolly on DVD!

Jan. 16, 2004
Duane. For TY Beanie Babies fans/Dolly Fans. Toy: teddy bear style. Name of Bear: Secret. Color: Red. Insignia: White heart with I LOVE YOU written in red. Connected to Dolly: The heart tag has January 19, 2003---DOLLY'S BIRTHDAY! HAVE A WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY DOLLY! I LOVE YOU!
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
Thanks, Bonnie. I'm sure she appreciates your greeting!

Jan. 15, 2004
Hi Duane. Wanted to let you know that I enjoy your site and visit often. Do you know where and when Dolly performed with both Bonnie Raitt and Allison Krauss on a song called "Angel from Montgomery"? I believe Bonnie also sang back-up for Dolly on "I Will Always Love You" during the same performance. Keep up the good work!
Kevin Swanson
Robbinsdale, Minn.
Thanks, Kevin. The performance of "Angel From Montgomery" with Bonnie Raitt and Alison Krauss (which was awesome!) comes from the Women Rock! benefit concert for breast cancer research which was taped in Los Angeles in September and aired on the Lifetime cable network in October. Dolly was the event's headliner, and in addition to the two songs you mentioned, she also performed "9 To 5" with Alison Krauss and "Just Because I'm A Woman." Her rendition of "Jolene" with Mindy Smith also served as the concert's finale, with the entire cast joining in to sing along on the chorus. Unfortunately, Lifetime does not have the special scheduled for repeat broadcasts.

Jan. 15, 2004
I am trying to find some information about one of Dolly's TV Christmas shows from the 80's or early 90's that was broadcast from Hawaii. I would like to know if there is an album or sound track available from that show.
Judy
Dallas, Texas
The show you're thinking of is an episode of her 1987-88 ABC variety series Dolly filmed on location in Hawaii, not a Christmas special. Unfortunately, there were no soundtracks released from these shows, and the shows themselves have never been available for commercial sale to the public. You might be able to find a fan who has a videotape of it recorded off of television and be willing to copy it for you.

Jan. 15, 2004
Duane, I just noticed that Dolly's Splash Country has changed its name to Dollywood's Splash Country. Do you know why they decided to change the name of the park? Keep up the great work on the website.
Tony Perry
Independence, Va.
What an astute eye! I hadn't even noticed that myself. But I did look back through some of my materials, and it appears that they changed the name of the park to incorporate the "Dollywood" moniker around late November or early December but made no official announcement of the decision. My guess is they just wanted to brand it more as part of the Dollywood family to encourage more people visiting Dollywood to also come to the water park, and vice-versa.

Jan. 14, 2004
Dewayne, I am looking at your website, and I see no mention of Dolly hosting the 2004 Flameworthy Awards (as of 7:30 pm on Jan 13th). I know since you always pride yourself in being the first to do this, the first to do that, I wonder as why you werent the first to report this? I saw the information posted on Dolly Parton Central last night, followed by a report from the Dolly Parton Voice Of An Angel website early this morning. Just wanted to alert you of your tardiness.
Laura Jass
Letcher, Ky.
Thank you for your letter. Unfortunately, I work full time and was asleep when news broke around midnight last night and was unable to update the site while I was at work earlier in the day. Arriving home, since it had already been covered on other sites, I chose to gather the rest of the Dolly news of the day and update the site at its usual time of around 7 p.m. Central instead of immediately posting the item on the awards announcement. However, you may note in tonight's update that there is another major Dolly announcement which Dollymania was the first to report (the news that she will not perform her holiday concerts in 2004).

Jan. 14, 2004
I only remember a half a quote she made about "every now and then a cow is grateful that the bull's jumped the fence." Do you know the actual quote?
Melissa England
Houston, Texas
Yes, I do remember her saying that, and I think it came from one of her films (sounds like a line from The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas, although it may have been from something else), but I don't remember the full quote. However, I think it was that every now and then a cow is grateful that the bull is grazing in the pasture or something along those lines.

Jan. 13, 2004
Hi! Thank you for posting my question =). Do you know of any sites where I could get the tabs or chords for Jolene and Coat Of Many Colors without having to buy a book? Could I just go to google or something and search there? P.S. I was wondering. If I wanted a chance at getting a real autograph from Dolly and/or (I wish) maybe a short note back, which of Dolly's addresses would be best for me to write to? Thanks so much!
M.L.
Haverhill, Ma.
I did a lot of searching, but all I came up with were a handful of sites with three or four songs on them. Only one site I found had more, Cowboy Lyrics here, which has the tabs for 24 Dolly songs, including both "Jolene" and "Coat Of Many Colors." As for an autograph, she's sent many, many such requests, so she cannot respond to them all, but you may try writing her Nashville office at P.O. Box 150307, Nashville, TN 37215.

Jan. 13, 2004
Hi: I know this is a crazy question, but do you think Dolly is wearing a wig on the cover of The Best of Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton. This is a debate between a friend and myself. I say she isn't.
Billy Black
Charlotte, N.C.
Come on, there are no crazy questions :) But I think your friend is probably right. I do believe that is a wig on the album cover. Dolly has almost never been photographed without a wig, and I don't believe she's ever done an album cover without one. In fact, famed photographer Annie Leibovitz asked her to pose sans the wig for the Halos & Horns images, and while Dolly allowed Annie to see her without a wig on, she refused to be shot that way.

Jan. 12, 2004
Hi. I am wondering if Dolly has any dolls.
Miles
Lafayette, La.
Yes, Dolly has had several official dolls issued in the "Barbie" style. The first, which came out around 1976, were made by Eegee/Goldberger and featured several outfits, including a red bell-bottom jumpsuit, denim skirt, and her "Coat Of Many Colors." Many of these dolls were re-issued around 1983, including one of her "in concert." In 1996, new dolls which bore a better resemblance to her were issued by Goldberger, including ones of her wearing the outfitts from the "Something Special" and "Heartsongs" album covers. Both types are frequently for sale on ebay. There have also been a couple of larger dolls made and sold at Dollywood.

Jan. 10, 2004
This is in response to Steve from San Diego who wrote about how he's repulsed by Dolly praying on poor folks from the area by the costs in Dollywood. I've been to Dollywood and I can tell you right now, nobody was complaining. You get charged the same, or more, at Six Flags, Sea World, Disneyland ect. And at Dollywood, she gives back so much to the community I leave feeling good knowing anything I spend there eventually goes back into the world for some good use. She's ALWAYS doing acts of kindness. Her park is about family and Tennessee tradition. Being from the midwest it's definitely different cause you're seeing their heritage through Dolly's eyes. It's very unique and personal. And as far as the people in that area, Dolly has made it more popular, making more tourists visit. The upside, we spend money on hotels, restuarants, stores, and so on. People should be grateful for the economic help. I think she's the most un-shelfish, giving, optimistic person in showbusiness I have ever seen.
Robin
St. Louis, Mo.
Thanks, Robin, for your letter. Other readers may scroll down to the Jan. 6 update below to see Steve's original letter and my reply.

Jan. 9, 2003
Duane, This has nothing to do with your site. It looks great. I'm writing b/c I'm a country music singer/songwriter here in Houston, TX. I'm 28 years old and I'm trying to make a name for myself here in TX, the only problem is that I am one of two Jon Wolfe's in the Houston area..... So that brings me to my point. My family name is Parton, from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. I've got an extensive family still there. Related to Dolly, not sure how distantly. I am hoping to use the Parton name( due to relation) but I would like to clear it with Dolly's legal team. And I'm not sure how to go about that. I apologize if this seems like a joke or something, it's not. I can't seem to find a direct email to her fan club. Could you send me in a direction?
Jon Wolfe
Houston, Texas
Thanks, Jon. First off, if you have legal claim to the name (such as it was your mother's maiden name, which I assume is probably what you were describing), there's nothing Dolly could do to prevent you from using it. In addition, there are tens of thousands of Partons across the country, so it really shouldn't be an issue. However, if you do want to clear the matter with Dolly completely as a courtesy, she currently manages herself, so she doesn't have a manager with a full legal team to work for her (and she hasn't operated a fan club in several years). I'd suggest just sending a letter to her Nashville business address (P.O. Box 150307, Nashville, TN 37215) simply saying that you are writing as a courtesy to verify that she has no objections to a distant relative who is a singer using his mother's maiden name of Parton as his stage name so he is not confused with another performer in the same city with the same name.

Jan. 7, 2003
hi dwane! i was wondering sence the dolly tribute cd is doing so well,do you think there will be a volume 2?and if there is i hope thay have dolly sing the title track like in the just beacuse im a woman cd. to me her being on her owne tribute cd was the iceing on the cake!!! Thanks
robert
Onondaga, Mich.
My guess is that there probably will be a second volume. Dolly has said the label folks are talking about it, although nothing has been officially announced yet. And hopefully we'll get to hear her sing on that one as well!

Jan. 6, 2003
Which song on Halos and Horns or Ultimate Dolly Parton do you think would be easiest for a beginner to learn on guitar?
M.E
Haverhill, MA
Unfortunately, I won't be of much help, I fear. I do not play guitar, so I really can't guess which songs would be the easiest to learn. However, I welcome if anyone wishes to offer some suggestions for you by e-mailing me here.
UPDATE: Michelle writes: I have just started guitar in October and I had to choose 10 songs to learn and the first 2 he taught me were Jolene (which is really easy to play because it is simply just a pattern) and Coat of Many Colors (a tad more difficult that Jolene but it only requires knowledge of a few chords.) Thanks!

Jan. 6, 2003
I find Dolly Parton and her cronies extremly repulsive. Have you been to nashville and seen the prices they charge! Outrageous she should be ashamed of herself. Dolly prey's on the poor folk charging them an arm and a leg to get her music. Most country music is listened to by very poor hard working people and Dolly and her kind prey on these poor people I find it really repulsive!
Steven Schrift
San Diego, Calif.
Thank you for your opinion, however misguided it is. Unfortunately, your concerns are based on two large logical fallacies which I hope you will consider as they are corrected below. First, it sounds as if you are asserting that Dolly runs the entire music industry. She does not. In fact, other than small independent labels, just five international mega-corporations control the music business in America, most of which are headquartered outside the United States, not in Nashville. Artists have no say in setting the cost of CDs. Instead, they are set by the corporations which own the record labels and the free market of capitalism, in which products sell only if people are willing to pay the prices charged for them. True, the cost of CDs are high in most consumers' eyes and sales have decreased in recent years. Consequently, the major labels instituted major price decreases late last year to win back customers. Dolly, herself, does not record for a major label. Instead, her music is released through an independent label, Sugar Hill Records, part of a small family of labels owned by a company started by bandleader Lawrence Welk. In addition, Dolly doesn't have many interests in Nashville other than having an office and home there. Most of her business interests are in her native East Tennessee some 200 miles away. (And I don't know why you ask if I have "been to Nashville" to see the prices of music, as CDs cost the same in Nashville as they do at your local record store there in San Diego.) Secondly, you assert that most country music listeners are "very poor." Actually, that is very far from the truth. According to published research, only a very small minority of country music listeners are poor. By far, the vast majority own their own homes (nearly three-quarters), half of them have completed college (much higher than the national average), two-thirds have annual incomes of between $25,000 and $75,000 per year, and nearly 20 percent enjoy incomes of $75,000 or more per year. Only about 10 percent live below the poverty line. These numbers are a little better than the nation at large, meaning that, on average, country music listeners are slightly wealthier than non-country-listeners. Finally, you should really learn more about Dolly Parton and her contributions outside of music before making any judgments. Her theme park and other business in East Tennessee employ more than 2,000 people. Using standard formulas from the realm of economic development to determine the impact of major employers, those jobs are responsible for at least 8,000 additional people being employed in that area, so more than 10,000 people can thank her for having a job. The economic success brought to that region by Dollywood and associated businesses is credited with turning one of the most poverty-stricken areas of the nation in the heart of Appalachia into one of the most prosperous in the South. On top of that, she has spent decades working with the children of the community to make it a better place, funding projects ranging from hospitals to schools. Her charitable foundation's education programs were credited with lowering the high school drop-out rate in Sevier County, Tenn., where Dollywood is located, from the highest in the nation to well below the national average. Today, her foundation provides more than 1million free books per year to pre-schoolers across 35 states. I hope you see that your accusations have no basis in fact.

Jan. 5, 2003
Hi. I watched Big Dreams and Broken Hearts: The Dottie West Story the other day. After watching this movie I became interested in Dottie. I am curious as to Dottie and Dolly's relationship. I was just wondering if you knew anything about them, such as how they met or any stories involving the two. I know that Dolly made an appearance in the movie, so she must have been friends with her. I have searched the Internet for information and pictures of Dottie and Dolly but have not been able to find anything. Also, I know that Dolly holds the record for the most number one country singles by a female, but I was wondering if you knew what the record is for the most number one singles by a female of any genre and chart. Thank you!
Audrey
Greenville, Tenn.
I know Dolly and Dottie were friends, but I don't believe they were very close friends. Of course, being "girl singers" who came of age at the same time in Nashville in the 1960s and branching into more pop sounds of the late 1970s, they saw each other frequently at various events, so there are a few photos of them together. One in particular I remember is in Alanna Nash's Dolly biography showing Dolly, Tammy Wynette, Lynn Anderson, Dottie, and Loretta Lynn together on stage at a television show. I don't recall offhand any stories of the two of them together, and as I said, I don't believe they were as close as she was with, say, Tammy or Loretta. (My pal, Paul, who runs the fan site Dolly Parton World, also operates a Dottie West fan site Remembering Dottie West, and tells me he has a photo of the two posing together.)
As for your other question, yes, Dolly holds the female country artist record for No. 1 hits with 24 on the Billboard country singles chart, which is also the record for any female artist on any airplay chart (such as Billboard's Hot 100 pop chart, adult contemporary chart, country chart, R&B chart, etc.). The only woman with more is Madonna, who has charted 25 No. 1s on the dance club play chart (which has nothing to do with airplay or sales, just how often a song is played in dance clubs, so it isn't considered a major chart). Back to airplay charts, Reba is second with 21 country No. 1s, and third is Aretha Franklin with 20 R&B singles chart No. 1s. FYI, the pop artists with the most No. 1s are the Beatles, who logged 20 hits at the top spot. Mariah Carey holds the female pop record with 15 (although if you add Diana Ross' No. 1s with The Supremes to her total as a solo or duo artist, she beats Carey with a total of 18, but her "official" total does not include any of her hits before the group changed its name to "Diana Ross And The Supremes.")

Jan. 3, 2004
I write on behalf of Callie, for she is only 6 years old. But is truly the biggest fan ever. Her favorite song is Me and Little Andy. Callie Marie knows every word. Her greatest dream would be to sing with Dolly!
Callie Marie
Mt. Ida, Ark.
How sweet for a caring parent to write a letter for their child. Children always have held a special place in Dolly's heart, and children seem very drawn to her. Most of her most devoted fans I have met fell in love with her as children, and she never let go of their hearts. Best wishes to Callie Marie, and I hope someday she gets to meet Dolly and maybe even sing with her!

Jan. 3, 2004
Duane, In all of the photos over the years of Dolly from the begining to present I have noticed that she never wears any jewlery around her neck. Has that ever been mentioned by her as to why she doesn't or has anyone ever commented on that? Earings, braclets and rings are shown alot it just seems odd why she never wears a necklace.
Deb
Colorado
What a keen observation! Come to think of it, I don't recall having seen Dolly wearing a necklace before. She often wears dresses with ornate designs over the upper chest and lower neck, but not necklaces. I don't think she's ever talked about it, though. I wonder why she doesn't do it?

Jan. 3, 2004
Hi Duane, Do you have any new info about Dolly's spring concert tour? We would love to get tickets..
Cindy, mom of Dolly's #1 fan in south Mississippi
Laurel, Miss.
Good to hear from some folks around my neck of the woods! Unfortunately, there's nothing yet available on the tour, but as far as I know she is still planning to tour at some point in 2004. She has said it may start in March or April at the earliest, but the closer we get to those dates, the more likely it will be pushed back further. As of now, no dates or venues have been finalized.

Jan. 2, 2004
I heard that Dolly had several tattos and i wanted to know if this was true, if so how many does she really have?
Bec
Old Bridge, N.J.
While on The Tonight Show in 1996, Jay Leno noticed an angel on her upper left arm and asked her about it. At that time, she confessed that it was a tattoo and said she also has a butterfly above her chest, although it wasn't visible in the dress she was wearing. At a subsequent appearance on the show about three years later, the butterfly tattoo could be seen slightly. She has never said exactly how many tattoos she has other than "a few" or where any others may be located. These are the only two she has discussed publicly, and every other time she's been asked the question, she's replied that she might have some and she might not, but she's not going to say.

Jan. 2, 2004
Dear Duane, I just wanted to let you know I enjoy the website and all the info on Dolly keep up the good work. Thanks Again!
Kim Stover
Beckley, W.V.
Thanks so much, Kim, for your nice letter. And I hope you and all of the site's other readers have a wonderful New Year!

Dec. 30, 2003
I just found your website and wanted to let you know that my daughter is one of the choristers in "Voices in the Laurel" who performed as Dolly's opening act for her Dec 12-13 concerts at Dollywood. While we didn't get to spend any time with Dolly, she did have her picture taken with the kids and was as beautiful and gracious as you would expect from all her publicity. What a thrill to see this gorgeous, talented woman up close! Plus, her staff at Dollywood were all wonderful. They put forth extra effort to see that we were well taken care of and that the kids were able to both have fun and do a great job at the performances. I can't say enough about what a great experience it was for all of us -- the kids who sang, and their star-struck parents! Thanks for a great website. We all appreciate your mention of "Voices in the Laurel".
Melinda Mimms
Waynesville, N.C.
Thank you for your letter. I thought the group did a beautiful job performing at the concert and was thoroughly impressed with their talents. The way they were treated is not surprising, as Dolly and her staff do their best to make everyone feel at home. And in case you didn't see, there's a small photograph of the choir at the end of a gallery of concert shots here. I'm sure that the kids' experience at Dollywood made their holidays that much more special!

Dec. 30, 2003
Dear Duane, I hope you had a wonderful Christmas, and I expect you to have a Happy New Year!! I was looking through your site tonight at some of the recent pictures of Dolly. The quality of the pictures were great. You can tell that they were taken by "Dolly Groupies." They know the exact second to take the perfect picture (yours included). I see the effort you put into Dollymania and I just wanted to thank you again. Recently I had a friend access the site to look up something for me, within 30 to 40 seconds of browsing he told me what a great site you had and, now is a regular visitor. Thanks again,
Marty Sanches
Albuquerque, N.M.
Marty, thanks so much for your kind words. They mean so much. And thanks for turning your friend onto the site as well! (And one of the main secrets to getting good pictures is to take a ton of them, as it increases the chance you'll get some great shots.)

Dec. 30, 2003
A new recording of Dolly performing "I Will Always Love You" begins airing in a Verizon Wireless commercial. this is in your dolly year end review, how i missed it the first time i dont know beacuse i come to your dolly site almost everyday. anyway i will always love you is my favorit song of hers. i love all 3 times she has recored it on her cds.so what i would like to know is what dose the new virshion sound like? will she releas it on her next cd? and dont you think its time she did it just one more time for her hardcore fans? the last time was 1995 i think. thanks
Robert Emery
Onondaga, Mich.
As far as I know, there are no plans for her to release the new vocals of the song. In fact, I never saw the ad myself, as it didn't air in my market, but I had about a dozen readers from other parts of the country that saw it on television when it aired earlier this year.

Dec. 26, 2003
My husband (Blaine 60 yrs old) and myself (46 yrs old) will be celebrating our 4th anniversary on Jan 22. He is the most caring and wonderful man I have ever known and I want to do something very special for him. We don't have alot of money but I have been saving and would like to know what would be a romantic place for me to take him. He has always wanted to go to Dollywood. Is there a special package you could offer me? All of the packages I find on the web-site are way out of my reach? I want to take him away Jan 18, 19 and maybe the 20th. I would appreciate any suggestions you can give me. From a very loving wife,
Linda Morse
Lawrenceburg, Tenn.
A trip to Dollywood can be very magical, so I'm sure you and your husband would greatly enjoy it. Unfortunately, the park is only open from April through December, so it will be closed at the time of your anniversary in January. Perhaps you could make the plans for the trip and present your husband with an itenerary or something like that on your anniversary. As for packages, I tend to avoid them because you usually don't save very much money. What I usually do is find a hotel online from a site like expedia.com, which has pretty good rates. You can stay in Pigeon Forge, Severville or Gatlinburg, since they're just a few minutes from each other. A no-frills room can go for as low as $30-$40 a night, or a fairly nice room can be $100-200 a night. You can also get a cabin for $150 or so in many places around there. Admission to the park is about $35 per person. You might spend a full day at Dollywood, where you can ride the rides, watch the craftspeople, tour Dolly's museum, see a dozen great musical shows and more. You might opt to have dinner at Dolly's Dixie Stampede (you'd better call for reservations long in advance as it is sold out on most nights). Tickets are about $40 per person, and you get a full meal plus a great animal-themed show. As for a romantic adventure, nothing beats a nice picnic in the mountains. Admission to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is free, and it's fairly easy to find a secluded spot off the side of the road where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy your lunch over the banks of a river admiring the scenery. These are just a few tips. Best wishes on getting your trip in order, and happy anniversary!

Dec. 25, 2003
I am trying to locate a song by Dolly regarding a visit by three strangers. I believe it revolves around Christmas or Christmas Eve? Could you tell me what the name of the song is? Thank you.
Annie
Merced, Calif.
I've probably received this same question about three dozen times in the past two weeks, so the answer is easy. The song you're thinking of is "The Christmas Guest." Dolly never recorded it, but the one you've probably heard is by Reba McEntire from her 1987 album Merry Christmas To You, as that is the only female version of the song of which I know. The poem, which tells the tale of Conrad, a lonely old man who is told by the Lord in a dream that He would be his guest on Christmas, was written by Bill Walker and Grandpa Jones, who originally recorded it (available here). Reba's version is one of my personal holiday favorites, and the only other version of which I am aware is one by Andy Griffith that was released this year and available here, although I think Johnny Cash may have recorded it at one time as well.

Dec. 25, 2003
I heard Dolly tell the story of how she and her sisters washed "Possible" while her brothers were in the same room. I can relate to that. I can't remember how it went and would like for someone to send it to me.
Pat
Prattville, Ala.
The way Dolly tells it, they didn't have a bathroom or running water (except when they'd "run to the creek and get it"), so they bathed using a large washtub in the small cabin in which they lived. With the boys and the girls all in the same room, everyone would use a rag to wash "as far up as possible." Then they'd wash "as far down as possible." Then one gender would leave the room so everyone else could "wash 'possible.'"

Dec. 22, 2003
Hi! I LOVE your site! I was wondering, which song by Dolly do you think would be easiest for a beginner to learn on guitar? And, do you know of any websites that have tabs for the song? Thank you!
M.L.
Haverhill, MA
Thanks, M.L. The old quote by legendary songwriter Harlan Howard that "Country music is three chords and the truth" is fairly accurate for most songs, including Dolly's. Many of her compositions rely on the country tradition of using just two or three chords throughout, or the old rock standard of four chords. For example, "I Will Always Love You" is typically arranged using the old rock chord progression of C-A minor-F-G for each of its verses and chorus. But many of her songs use more complicated structures such as all minor chords or a lot of sustained and 7th chords. Unfortunately, I haven't seen a site that made tabs available for her songs, but there are often several songbooks of hers up for auction on ebay at any given time, so you might try there.

Dec. 22, 2003
Hello, I am just a farmer's wife in southern Illinois who has been a Dolly fan all my life but never had the chance to see her in person.. My biggest concern is my little sister ( Bridget) took her 6 yr old daughter ( Madison ) to Dolly's concert at the Dollywood area this past 12/12/03... Maddy is a very well we'll say ... active ... little girl, that can't sit still for anything !!! Although she tries very hard for her mother who she loves dearly.... Bridget called our dad and suggested the Vatican make Dolly a Saint because Madison sat very still and quiet for an hour and a half thru Dolly's concert !!! Madison had a card she wrote to Dolly but could not get it signed, but an employee at the concert took it from her and said they would make sure Dolly got it... Is there ANY way possible for ME to get this baby's card signed by Dolly and mailed to her??? To have such a young fan as Maddy is should be such an honor to people like Dolly, don't you think?... I do. Can you help me?
Marilyn Mellendorf
Altamont, Ill.
If the folks at Dollywood collected the card and told you it would go to Dolly, you can rest assured that she received it. She loves little things like that from fans and treasures all of them that she receives. As for getting it back autographed, she receives numerous requests, so she can't reply to all of them, and when she does it often takes a good while for her to sift through them all and send responses. Best of luck in having your wish granted!

Dec. 19, 2003
I have a friend who is a big Dolly fan and would like a Dolly DVD, BUT he doesn't want a DVD of one of her movies. Does she have DVDs of concerts? And if so, where can I get one? Thanks!
Lauren
Reading, Penn.
Unfortunately, there aren't any U.S. DVDs of Dolly's concerts which have been released. There is one DVD, titled Behind The Scenes, which contains several of her music videos and interview footage about the tribute album which just came out about her and her new patriotic and spiritual CD. It's sold exclusively at Wal-Mart. The only one of her concerts to make it onto DVD is her 1984 HBO concert special with Kenny Rogers, Kenny & Dolly: Real Love, which was released on DVD in South Korea. Although I haven't seen any stores carrying it as an import in the U.S., there are usually several copies up for sale or auction on ebay every week, so I'd suggest looking there.

Dec. 19, 2003
Hello I have been in love with Smoky Mountain Christmas for a long time. Can you please tell me the name of the song that goes, I'd like to spend Christmas with Santa this year, help him bring joy and cheer to everyone everywhere. Please help. Thanks
Michelle
Ottawa, Ill.
The song is called "I'd Like To Spend Christmas With Santa." However, it is unfortunately only available on the movie, not on any CDs. While Dolly wrote and recorded many wonderful holiday tunes for the film, she has never released any of them on an album. But you can catch the movie throughout the holiday season on CMT (check TV listings on the right-hand side of the news page here), and there are usually several dozen copies on VHS for sale on ebay around Christmas time.

Dec. 17, 2003
do you thing dolly and melissa will record a cd together. i'm a big fan of dolly's a long long time. i never cared much for melissa but with them together i love it.
donna Bartlett
Belleville, Ill.
I haven't heard any word on plans for the two to get together in the studio, but they sounded so great together on CMT that it wouldn't surprise me if one of them makes a guest appearance on the other's next album. I would love it!

Dec. 17, 2003
You know what? Whomever were complainers at Dolly's Foundation concerts.this past week......... Should have cut DOLLY a LOT of slack! For God's sake--she just lost her mama......Dolly COULD have canceled those concerts---but she did NOT, Any true blue Dolly fan certainly would have understood that given the circumstances of Avie Lee's death--if she chose to cancel it Those complainers ought to be ashamed of themselves! I read the list of songs Dolly sang. What an impressive concert list! You should have been grateful that Dolly performed at all. Makes me mad that those idiots whined! Shame on them........Shame on THEM! DOLLY: You did you mama proud!
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
Thanks for your note. I agree. They shouldn't be complaining (I thought the show was awesome), but I guess you can't please everyone. If she sang perfectly for two hours, I bet someone would find something to complain about then as well. Anyway, I only heard three or four people complaining as they left the theater (see the review of the show here), so I'm sure the vast majority of the audience was very satisfied with the show.

Dec. 17, 2003: Just wanted to let you know how excited I was that Dolly was releasing For God and Country. I was then very quickly very disappointed that she was ONLY releasing the CD within the US. I immediatley went on-line to see if I could find it anywhere as a special order. I finally found it at A&B Sound Online. It cost me $19.95 plus GST plus shipping and handling etc - all totaled it came to $28.29!!! I waited for just over a month for it to arrive and today I was inside the A&B Sound store (Canada) and they had a number of copies for $15.49. I was a little upset at first but then realized at least I had the CD! Now my search is on for Dolly Parton: Behind the Scenes on DVD. I have had no luck with this one as it too has only been released in the US. How disappointing for us Canadian Dolly fans!!! Do you or any of your Canadian readers know where I can get myself a copy of this? Thanks!
James
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Yes, the plan was that For God And Country was to be a U.S.-only release, but I have heard that some stores in Canada and Europe purchased copies in the U.S. to re-sell in their stores as imports, so it is available now in some places. As for the Behind The Scenes DVD, it was sold exclusively at Wal-Mart in the U.S., so unless a store has gone to a Wal-Mart here and purchased copies for re-sale there, you probably won't find it in Canada. However, I have seen numerous copies on ebay since its release, so you might look there.

Dec. 16, 2003
Hi, I've been waiting for you to get back and hear what you had to say about Dolly's Christmas benefit. I appreciate you mentioning The Voices In The Laurel but was wondering if you may have any pictures or a little more to say about their performance as well? Many of the parents missed this opportunity to share this great honor with their child. The kids were treated like royalty and had one of the best experiences of their lives. For them this will truly be a Christmas to remember. We are so grateful to Dolly and all her employees for treating our children with the utmost care and love.
Jo
Waynesville, N.C.
Yes, I am planning on posting a photograph of the choir and a note about how well they did when I get some of the other shots from the weekend up on the site in the next day or two. They did a wonderful job and were a joy to listen to!

Dec. 16, 2003
I am looking for a song (I'm sure I have it) sung by Dolly and Kenny Rodgers. I don't know the name but the subject is: "How do you call your lover"....the answer is either "Baby" or later "Loverboy". Can you help me with the name and album? Thanks,
Charlie Cripe
Bend, Ore.
The song was a re-make of the '60s classic "Love Is Strange" and appeared on Kenny's 1990 album of the same name. While it is out of print, some stores still carry a few copies (click here to get a copy from Amazon.com). It was also included in his 1999 boxed set Through The Years: A Retrospective and the 2000 collection Kenny Rogers and Friends.

Dec. 16, 2003
Does anyone know where one can get DOLLY PARTON AND FRIENDS AT GOLDBAND on CD. The one on amazon.com only has PUPPY LOVE on the track listing. The album has young Dolly singing PUPPY LOVE and GIRL LEFT ALONE on it. It is neat thing to have these priceless recordings. Do you have the LP that you could burn on to a CD? I don't want to warp the LP record--and those two songs are so sweet--because they helped nourish Dolly's dream. Priceless to this Dolly fan......I own the LP but I do not have the capability to transfer it to CD. Can someone help?
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
Bonnie, hopefully someone out there has one and can help you out. They may click on your name above to send you an e-mail directly.

Dec. 10, 2003
On Avie Lee's passing, I know her fans mean well and want to say they're sorry, but there's a time and place for things. I can't believe you put up a link to Dolly Parton's mother's funeral memorial book so her fans can invade her privacy like this. At a time like this Dolly isn't Dolly the star, she is Dolly the family member. I read some of it and it's totally unapropriate, fans signing it for selfish reasons to say hi to Dolly instead of reasons concerning Avie. I'm really disapointed in Dollymania right now. Also, you are inviting people who may say horrible things about Dolly by putting this on your site and her family has to read it all.
Dave Anderson
Chicago, Ill.
Thank you, Dave, for expressing your opinions to the site and its readers. The opinions of all readers are greatly valued and considered when creating and updating pages on Dollymania. Not to disregard or discredit your feelings, but to view the situation in a different light, I would like to offer a disagreement. Yes, death is a deeply personal and tragic occurrence within a family. And, yes, grieving is often a very private and intimate reaction. However, whenever a public figure faces crises, most notably a death in the family, there is always a grieving by the public as well, and they wish to have an outlet for expressing their condolences and sympathies for someone who is special to them and is facing a difficult time. At first, I did not post the link on the site, although I was aware of it. After receiving several dozen e-mails from fans around the world who were seeking a way to express their thoughts and prayers for the Parton family at this time of sorrow, I decided to provide the link for that purpose. Simply put, this was the least invasive way available for fans to do this. In addition, the funeral home, not Dollymania, created and posted the memorial page, making it available on the Internet for the public to leave comments. Had they not intended for it to be accessible to the public and fans of Dolly and her siblings, they would not have put it online to begin with. Also, the funeral home would not have placed its Web address plainly in the obituary notice sent to the press for publication and then placed easily-located links to the memorial page on its Web site had it not intended for it to be for public access. Posting of the link here will likely have little impact on the messages left on it, as more than 100 people (nearly all professing to be fans of Dolly's) had already discovered the page on their own and posted messages before the link ever appeared on Dollymania, and the vast majority of those who leave messages after seeing it posted here would have likely found it without the site having provided it. And, yes, I agree that some of the messages left on the page are inappropriate due to their lack of overt sympathy for Avie Lee and instead their focus on Dolly, but most of those were posted before the link appeared here, many were posted afterward by people who did not link to it from this site, and neither you nor I have the right or power to impose our beliefs of appropriate behavior on the world at large when it comes to an uncensored public forum such as the funeral home made the memorial page to be. But, again, thank you for sharing your concerns and your opinions. They are valued, even if I disagree.

Dec. 10, 2003
Once on the radio, I heard Dolly singing a song that I have not been able to find. I don't know the title. It was about a woman needing to buy a red dress. In the song, the woman thinks about the different colours of the dresses she has had in her life. Does anyone out there know the name of the song and album that it is on?
Lois
Windsor, Ont., Canada
The song you're thinking of is by Lorrie Morgan and is titled "Something In Red." It was released in 1991. Lorrie's voice is a good bit deeper than Dolly's, but other than that she does sound an awful lot like her. In fact, on the album which contained the song, also titled Something In Red, Dolly and Lorrie do a duet on a song Dolly wrote called "Best Woman Wins." And when they sing together, it can be difficult to tell them apart.

Dec. 9, 2003
I am desperately looking for a copy of Kenny & Dolly: Christmas to Remember. I had it as a child and miss it more and more each year. If anyone knows how I could get a copy of this please email me! I would really appreciate it so much! Thank you!
Annette
San Marcos, Texas
Unfortunately, the special was never released commercially for anyone to purchase. The only copies floating around are those which fans have recorded off of television and trade or sell among themselves. A few of these have also shown up on ebay over the years, and I know of several people who have posted their requests on the Dollymania Collectors' Connection page and gotten tapes. If you'd like to be added, just let me know.

Dec. 8, 2003
I wonder why BMG would have left the individual solos for both Dolly and Kenny off of ONCE UOPN A CCHRISTMAS re-issued CD? It seems that there is more than ample room for them on a CD--plus the adding of HARD CANDY CHRISTMAS. Dolly's HEARTSONGS: LIVE FROM HOME album had LOTS more--nearly two dozen songs--on ONE CD. I like the fact that Dolly had added her encore songs to that album--i.e. PMS BLUES.....She was not afraid to make us happy putting that one on it--that's what we wanted! Dolly really LISTENED! Because she DID include that song on it! Unusual song? Yep! Out on a limb to include it? Probably...But she made her fans happy...especially us girls! Thanks Dolly!
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
The answer to your question a little complicated. The label was prohibited from including Kenny's solo work on the re-issue of the album. Kenny Rogers moved to RCA Records when he was near the height of his popularity, so he got a "sweetheart deal" to join the label. Part of that deal was that he would own all of his solo recordings, and RCA would just distribute them. This is how he continues today to issue new compilations of his old RCA material on his own without RCA or its parent company, BMG. So, when he did the Christmas album with Dolly, Kenny continued to own all of his solo recordings included on it. However, since Dolly was an RCA star who signed years before anyone came up with the idea of allowing stars to own their own music, her recordings remained the property of RCA. Therefore, when they re-issued the album, they were not allowed to include Kenny's solo work but still had the rights to Dolly's solo cuts and the duets. To keep it from being just an eight-song disc, they decided to add Dolly's "Hard Candy Christmas" from The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas, even though it is not a Christmas song and has nothing to do with the holiday other than having its name in the title. Get the re-issued CD here!

Dec. 6, 2003
As an ardent fan of Dolly I have a large collection of Movies,Tv apperances and live shows. If anyone would like any material I have in my collection please contact me Downunder.
Barry Long
Ulverstone, Tasmania, Australia
Barry, unfortunately, the e-mail address you entered (Barry@susiel.hotkey.net.au) must have had a typographical error, because it came back as undeliverable. Please e-mail me here with it again, and I'll add it to your message above. Thanks!

Dec. 5, 2003
Hello Duane, I was reading in the previous letters to you and I was wondering about your response to the person who told you about Dolly's uncle passing on. You said fans would remember him from Rhinestone... Was he in it or something. I would really like to know. Thanks a lot. Oh and also The Happy Holidays airing near christmas... is this focused right on Dolly or a whole bunch of people. Again Thanks for you help as always. ( You have the best Dolly site EVER!!!!!!!)
Michelle
Ottawa, Ont., Canada
Thanks, Michelle, for your letter. The comment to which you are referring was actually made by the writer of the letter in question, not by me in the response. She wrote that readers should remember him from Rhinestone, but I got out my tape of the film and looked at the credits and didn't see him listed. Many of Dolly's other relatives played in some of the bands featured in the film, but I do not know if he was in it or not. And the syndicated Happy Holidays America program, as I understand it, just features Dolly in a segment recalling some of her childhood Christmas memories.

Dec. 4, 2003
Hi, does anyone know where I can get the video of "He's Alive" from 1989? I have been looking for a some time now! Any help would be appreciated.
Pamel
Corsicana, Texas
Unfortunately, the video wasn't released commercially for sale, to the best of my knowledge, but perhaps someone out there has it taped off of TV and could get you a copy!

Dec. 4, 2003
what has happened to the concert that was taped at dollywood last christmas, i thought it was to be available on dvd, then i heard cmt was planning to air it this fall, do you have any updates on this project.
Jim Stone Burner
Hershey , Pa.
At the time of the taping, Dolly had said she wasn't sure if she'd release it as a live CD, live DVD, television special, or at all. Since she had it recorded herself, she has total control over its use. Over the summer, she said that it would air as a concert special on CMT in September, but when I contacted my source at the network, he knew nothing of it -- so I assume she was either misquoted and said she was in discussions to air it on CMT or the plans to air it fell through. Currently, I know of no plans to use the footage at this time.

Dec. 4, 2003
Hi Duane, I just wanted to let you know, Dolly's uncle John Henry Owens, died last Friday. His obituary was in Monday's Mt. Press. It read as follows:
Robert H. "John Henry III" Owens
Robert H. "John Henry III" Owens, 72, of Pigeon Forge, died Friday, Nov. 28 at Sevier County Health Care Center. He was preceded in death by his parents Jake and Rena Owens, sister, Estelle Watson; brothers-in-law Dot Watson and Lee Parton; and brother Lester Owens. He is survived by sons, Bobby Owens and wife Jama, Ronny Owens, Danny Owens; daughter, Tina Owens Thomas; grandchildren, Tabatha Owens, Adreanne Owens, James Robert Owens, Hagin Owens, Kyndall Owens, Briley Owens, Daniel Owens, Danielle Owens, Lindsay Thomas; great-grandchild Gabriella; sisters, Avielee Parton, Dorothy Jo Owens; brothers Louis Owens and wife Colleen, Bill Owens and wife Sandy, Alden Ernest Owens and wife Barbara; several nieces, nephews and special friends. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday in the west chapel of Atchley Funeral Home with the Rev. Glenn Parton officiating. Interment will follow in Caton's Chapel Cemetary. The family will receive friends from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday at Atchley's Funeral Home, Sevierville.
Duane, John Henry was a good man. He was very kind to me and I liked him a lot. Most of Dolly's fans will remember him best from Rhinestone, or knowing of him as the uncle who took Dolly to Lake Charles, LA to record "Puppy Love" and on the way home, got Dolly the first bananas she'd ever eaten. I would appreciate it if you would let the fans know of Dolly's loss. Thanks. Your friend,
Maryellen
Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
Thanks, Maryellen, for alerting me to this sad event. Our prayers are with the family. (Note: Actually, John Henry didn't "take" Dolly to Lake Charles. He lived next door to the recording studio, so he did arrange for her to make a visit and record there. However, Dolly and her grandmother rode the bus down from Tennessee, and John Henry drove them back home afterward. Thanks, Bonnie, for pointing out the error in phrasing in the letter.)

Dec. 3, 2003
hi, I was wondering if you could tell me if Dolly has ever posed for Vanity Fair? The reason I'm asking is because in school today, we watch a movie about photographer Annie Leibovitz and how she worked for them. And I was sure that i saw 2 pics of Dolly. And do you know if you can view them anywhere? Thanks!
Jen
Maryland
Yes, Annie has photographed Dolly many times. First, in 1977, when she was the main photographer for Rolling Stone magazine, she took the pictures of Dolly and then-Mr. Universe Arnold Schwarzenegger. In 1991, she shot Dolly for a cover story in Vanity Fair. And she did the photos used for the outside and inside cover art for Dolly's Rainbow album in 1987 and Halos & Horns last year. A sampling of some of her Dolly shots is posted on the site here. And the best way to get your hands on the old magazines is to probably watch for them on ebay.

Dec. 3, 2003
Duanne, after seeing Dolly on Crossroads with Melissa Etheridge I've heard so many people say they wish Dolly would put out a cd single of "I Wanna Be In Love." Because she did such a wonderful job, making it more feminine, nailing the high notes like she did, and making the ending sound so much better. Do you think this will happen?
Robin
St. Louis, Mo.
I'd love for her to record it. It was a truly amazing performance! But you never can tell what Dolly is liable to do :) It wouldn't surprise me, though, after working with Melissa, if she decided to cut one of her songs whenever she gets around to doing her next album.

Dec. 1, 2003
Do you know if Dolly's Smokey Mountain Christmas will ever be released on DVD? I've seen it on EBAY on VHS but don't see it anywhere on DVD. Thanks!!
Carrie
Richmond, Mich.
As of now, there are no plans to release the video commercially on DVD or to reissue it on VHS. It was issued on VHS in 1991, and all of the copies you see on ebay are from that original release.

Dec. 1, 2003
Hello Duane, I was recently told that dolly was to sing the national anthem for the Monday Night Football game (Titans). Have you heard anything? I would appreciate it for any info you may have. Thank you.
Marty
Albuquerque, N.M.
I know there was a recent poll asking who fans wanted to sing the national anthem for the Titans, and Dolly won, but as far as I know, there are no plans for her to do it right now. She has been asked to sing it many times before at many events, but she has always refused to do so live because it's such a difficult song.

Nov. 29 2003
Duane, In Dolly's book of Poetry there was a poem written that came from a song "It's been one of those days" listed in the acknowledgments as copyright 1976 Owepar Publishing Co.. I am trying to find what the rest of the words are, I see it is not in anything she recorded, based on your listings, and I can't find it on other sites that contain lyrics from her other works. Do you have any idea how I might go about finding the full version?
Deb
Colorado
The song was recorded on Dolly's 1983 album Burlap & Satin as "One Of Those Days." While that one is out of print, the song was included on several import CDs in recent years, including Legendary Dolly Parton and The Love Album. Simply click on the title to order. The lyrics are:
1. It's been one of those days,
That reminded me in many ways,
Of the when we were happy and still in love.
Just a certain way the wind blows,
Just a certain way the sun glows,
It's been one of those days,
That reminded me of us.
(CHORUS)
And even though it's over,
I never will get over,
These feelings that I get on certain days.
And I know I'll always love you,
("I guess I know I'll always love you" on repeat)
And I'll always be thinking of you,
In certain kinds of ways,
On certain kinds of days,
And today, it's been one of those days.
("And today, well it's been one of those, one of those days" on repeat)
2. It's been one of those days,
And my heart feels so heavy,
And my mind is so full of thoughts of you.
It's been one of those days,
That I'd give my life to see you,
And to once more know the love that we once knew.
(REPEAT CHORUS)
(REPEAT FIRST VERSE AS SPOKEN VERSE)

Nov. 28, 2003
Hi. I would like to know if Dolly is going to do a duet CD with Porter Wagoner. It would be great if they would. Please let me know.
Dan
Minnesota
Well, while Dolly has mentioned in the past that she would consider doing an album with Porter again if they found the right material, no plans have been made to do so anytime soon. It is a great desire by many of her fans that the two would get back together, though. For the benefit of some of her newer fans, Porter brought Dolly to the nation's attention when he added her to the cast of his weekly television show and touring concert troupe in 1967, performing duets with her to introduce her to his audience. Their wonderful harmonies led immediately to duet albums, and they put out a total of 13 studio duet albums, one live album and one greatest hits collection together between 1968 and 1976, spawning 13 top 10 duet singles as well. By the mid-1970s, their creative and personality differences led Dolly to leave Porter, who had completely controlled her career -- from choosing which songs she was to record to producing them. The split was very acrimonious, especially given the fact that Dolly had become one of country music's biggest stars of the time and Porter had fallen far behind her and could not even chart a top 10 solo single any longer. But their ties were so close that she wrote her classic "I Will Always Love You" as a goodbye to Porter. After Dolly crossed over and became a pop superstar as well, Porter sued her for breach of contract, settling out of court for $1 million and the issuance of their final unreleased duet album, which hit stores in 1980 and garnered another top 10 single. By 1987, they had reconciled and rekindled their friendship, performing together on Dolly's television show and in concert at Dollywood, but they have yet to record a new duet.

Nov. 28, 2003
Hi, I just wanted to say I was very mad/upset because last night (11-26-03) Dolly never came on for The Mark Twain Prize on my t.v. the whole night was about Bob Newhart. They never even showed Lily Tomlin. Do you know why? Or if it is going to re-air? Thanks a lot.
Jen
Baltimore, Md.
Unfortunately, as PBS is a loosely-affiliated network, local stations can choose whether or not to air a program. The decision not to air it there in Baltimore was made by your local PBS station. Nearly all other PBS stations nationwide did air the special on Wednesday night as planned. I know Newhart was last year's honoree, so your station may have just made a mistake and aired last year's ceremony in error. For information on when your local station may air the correct one, you would need to contact them directly.

Nov. 27, 2003
Has the Kenny Rogers and Dolly holiday special, A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER, ever come out on video or DVD? It was one of the best holiday specials that was done, and it's too bad it's not seen much on tv since it was made. Any hope of it ever coming to video or DVD. It's one of my favorites!
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
Unfortunately, it has never been released on video or DVD, so the only copies floating around are those recorded off of the TV. As of now, I know of no plans to release it.

Nov. 25, 2003
Hi, I have seen comments about a Dolly 2004 Tour. Is there any truth to that ? Thanks,
Mike
Lehighton, Penn.
Yes, Dolly does plan to tour at some point in 2004. Nothing has been finalized yet, so no dates or cities have been announced, but she has said that the tour could start in late spring and that the intent is for it to visit more cities and larger venues than her tour in the summer of 2002. Look for more information on the Dollymania news page as soon as it becomes available.

Nov. 22, 2003
I am looking for the Christmas film Dolly made with Kenny Rodgers I think in 1984. I was wondering if anyone knew where I could buy it as my sister has been looking for it for the past couple of years. Thank you so much.
Margaret Inglis
Hamilton, Scotland
Unfortunately, the special, titled Kenny & Dolly: A Christmas To Remember, was never released on video or DVD for commercial sale. Therefore, the only way to obtain one would be to find someone who recorded it off of television and could make a copy. If you'd like, I could post your request and your e-mail address on the site's Collectors' Connection page, and if anyone out there has a copy to get to you, they could contact you directly. Please let me know if you are interested.

Nov. 22, 2003
Dear Webmaster,
I have look high and low for Dolly's album New Harvest, First Gathering. I received my first copy when I was 10 and 2 additionaal copies after that. I wore the hell out of those albums. It is one of my very favorite if not my faavorite album can you tell me if you will ever remaster thaat album and put it out in CD or let me know at least where I can get another copy since mine is so scrathched and worn out.
Janice M. Yasak
Chicago, Ill.
Unfortunately, RCA has been very slow to re-issue Dolly's massive catalogue on the label, putting out on CD in recent years just six out of her nearly 50 albums for the label, so I doubt we'll see it on CD anytime soon. However, there are several sources where you may locate an original vinyl album of it. I did a quick search on ebay and turned up two auctions including this album, music service Gemm.com has three listed, and the music listing service ProMusicFind.com has 12 listed for sale.

Nov. 22, 2003
How does Dolly stay so little? Has she had gastric bypass surgery? Who is her plastic surgeon? I love her lips and I would love to have her lips does she have collegen injections? Thanks,
Irma
Knoxville, Tenn.
The basic answer is genetics. Even when Dolly was what she considered to be very overweight, her waist was just about 26 or 28 inches. When she lost an amazing amount of weight in the mid-1980s, somewhere between 40 and 60 pounds in my estimation, she got even smaller. She gained a little of it back within a couple of years, and has been at that same size since then -- with a 20-inch waist. When you see her in person, you see that she is just a naturally tiny person. She says the way she lost the weight and has kept it off is to eat several tiny, tiny meals a day instead of three normal-sized ones. She also pretends that she has two angels watching over her and has to save two-thirds of whatever portion she does put on her plate for her angels. To my knowledge, she has never had gastric bypass surgery or anything like that, but she does get a lot of plastic surgery done by many different doctors and loves collagen lip injections. A few of her doctors include Dr. Frank Kramer (face) and Dr. John Grossman (body) and Dr. Arnold William Klein (dermatology). For more information on plastic surgery, you may contact the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons Referral Service at 1-800-635-0635.

Nov. 21, 2003
Nice job on FOR GOD AND COUNTRY Dolly! I liked this album BEFORE listening to it. It was cute how she put a parody verse about herself being in the army in the song GEE MA I WANNA GO HOME. I hope a lotta soldiers like the album. I don't regret buying this one.
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
Great feedback. Most fans from whom I've heard also loved the new album! Get the CD here!

Nov. 19, 2003
Hi Duane, I read awhile back on your site that various labels placed Dolly in contention for Grammy consideration. I was expecting Sugar Hill to submit her in the Female Country Vocal category and they did. But I was wondering if you knew if either "I'm Gone" or "Hello God" was submitted in contention for Best Country Song. It is my understanding that since Dolly lost Best Country Album, her songs were eligible for the 2003 Grammys. And since both "I'm Gone" and "Hello God" were released as singles this year, I was wondering if Sugar Hill submitted them. Just wondering and I thought you might know. Thanks,
Anthony
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Thanks for your letter. The songs were not submitted for consideration in the Best Country Song category at this year's awards. As far as I understand it (and I may be wrong because I'm not up-to-date on all of the Grammy rules), the song categories are submitted by the publishing company for the song, not the record label. Since Dolly owns her publishing company, assuming this understanding of the rule is true, she must have decided not to submit the songs for consideration at this year's awards. As was first reported here, "I'm Gone" was submitted for Female Country Vocal Performance, and four of her guest vocal recordings this year were submitted for Best Country Collaboration With Vocals. Final nominees in all categories will be announced Dec. 4.

Nov. 19, 2003
Hello, I realize that probably a lot of people write about this and maybe it will get me nowhere. I have a song that would be great for Dolly. It's a song about love between an older couple(GM AND GP) but it's really neet and I wish someone would listen to it. It would be great for Dolly. Please give me a chance! Thanks,
John
Fairborn, Ohio
Unfortunately, nearly all performers refuse to accept unsolicited songs, and the rare few who do will only do so if the song has been published by an established music publishing firm registered with ASCAP or BMI. If you want to take a chance, you may mail a copy of the song to Dolly, but I sincerely doubt she would be able to listen to it.

Nov. 18, 2003
I read somwhere that Dolly will be touring in 2004. Where and when will she be touring? My husband is a great fan of hers and I would love to go to her concert if it is somewhere in the Northeast. Thank you for any info you can give me.
Regina
Torrington, Conn.
Yes, it has been reported here that she has said she plans a tour sometime in 2004. While no dates or venues have been finalized, she has indicated that the concerts may start as early as March or April, depending on her schedule, and the tour is anticipated to be larger than the one held in the summer of 2002, which was her first tour in a decade but focused on small venues (average capacity about 2,000 persons) in 13 cities.

Nov. 17, 2003
A curious question came up the other day and I was wondering if you might know the answer. When Dolly got married did she keep her maiden name or did she officially change it to Dean? The video that came out on her London tour had a spot where the customes guy appeared to be reading her passport as Dolly Parton, yet the other night she made referance to Dolly Dean as her married name.
Deb
Colorado
Technically, her legal name is Dolly Dean, and she is referred to that in legal documents (such as the few lawsuits to which she has been a party, and corporate minutes for some of her businesses). However, since she and Carl Dean secretly married when her record label wanted to market her as single, she kept her maiden name as her performing name. In addition, you don't necessarily have to have your married name listed on documents such as a passport or driver's license, so it is legal in most instances to continue to use your maiden name instead.

Nov. 15, 2003
How dare you say that you have never liked the original recording of "The Ballad of the Green Berets"?!?! That is a great song and I totally disagree with you about Dolly improving it. It is anything but an improvement. Nothing against Dolly or anything, but that is just one of those classic songs that you just don't mess with. I feel the same way about "God Bless the U.S.A." Lee Greenwood is the ONLY person who should sing that one. Other than that, it's a pretty good album. Thank you for your time and attention to my opinions.
Joy Gordon
Jackson, MS
Thank you, Joy, for your opinion. Of course, music is a very subjective art form -- what one person adores, another hates, and both feelings can be completely valid and co-exist. My personal opinion of "The Ballad Of The Green Berets" is that while it has an okay melody and commendable message, the lyrics are mediocre, very unpoetic and somewhat cliché. I also did not care for the voice of Sgt. Barry A. Sadler, who co-wrote and originally recorded the song. Dolly's voice makes me able to listen to it and enjoy it somewhat, but I still am not a very big fan of that particular cut from the new album. This in no way lessens the contributions of the brave soldiers honored in the song, but it's akin to liking Princess Diana but disliking Elton John's version of "Candle In The Wind" dedicated to her memory. Editor's Note: The author of this letter is the webmaster's sister and, thus, has been exposed to Dolly music her entire life, so she is a Dolly fan.

Nov. 11, 2003
Hi, I was wondering if any one had mp3s of Dolly's recent performances on Oprah,CMAs, and The Women Who Rock vh1 special thingy (I forget what it was called) Plus I hope someone makes files from the upcoming crossroads special. I would love to have all these files to compile a cool live dolly cd to listen to with the Just Because I'm A Woman cd (which rocks. Any help would be great
Sergio
I personally don't have any, but perhaps someone else out there does and will send you an e-mail.

Nov. 10, 2003
I have read somewhere that while Dolly was on one of those late night shows last year (not sure which one) that she appeared to have had her belly button pierced. I was wondering if thats true or not. Thanks, Jen.
Baltimore, Md.
Yes, when she was on Conan O'Brien in early 2001, her shirt lifted a bit during a skit where she pretended to strip, and there did appear to be a ring on her belly button -- but I don't know if it was a clip-on, or if she had pierced it, but she does have a couple of tattoos, so I wouldn't put it past her :)

Nov. 10, 2003
Hi! I was wondering, is there a website where I can watch the full video for Shine? I have looked at a few but can't find any websites where I can see the video. I love that song and would really like to see it. Thanks =)
M.E.
Haverhill, Mass.
Unfortunately, I am not aware of a site which still has the video posted. It used to be available on CMT.com and Launch.com, but both have replaced it with more recent videos.

Nov. 7, 2003
Duane: I was wondering if the dance remix of "Early Morning Breeze" on Ultimate Dolly Parton from England has Dolly's vocals on it? Also, what kind of album is the quadaphonic version of Dolly's Bubbling Over? Thanks.
Terry Richard
Minto, N.B., Canada
Yes, the song does have Dolly's original vocals. It's not so much of a dance remix as a remix of the song featuring a more orchestral arrangement backed with an almost-dance-style percussion background. It does have all of Dolly's original vocals from the song plus a couple of "aaaa"s by another singer. As for quadraphonic, these were a four-speaker separation system used some in the 1970s where sound was separated to four speakers (hence "quad") instead of the standard two of "stereo" recordings.

Nov. 7, 2003
I've been trying to find out the name of the song and the group that sang a humorous song that included Dolly Parton's name. It was a girl group and probably done 15 or more years ago. Help?
Debs
Glouster, Ohio
Unfortunately, I'm not aware of that one :) Maybe someone else will come up with its title.

Nov. 6, 2003
Hi Duane,
Would you happen to know if the episode of Oprah After The Show with Dolly will air again on Oxygen? Saw the ten minute clip on the Oprah site and really enjoyed it. Was there more to the show?
Thanks! Your site is still going strong...still THE BEST!
Manuel
Bulringame, Calif.
Unfortunately, I do not believe Oxygen airs repeats of the show. And my cable system doesn't carry it, so all I was able to see was the online version, so I wasn't able to see the Oxygen version, but I am told that Dolly's performance of "9 To 5" with Alison Krauss and Union Station was broadcast on that show.

Nov. 5, 2003
Hi Duane ! Thank you (again) for a very nice web site ! I just read the story about Dolly in the Toronto Sun, and I was shocked to see that it said Dolly's new album, For God and Country, would be released in the US only. My question to you is whether this is true or not. It would be a disaster if it was not released in Europe (and Sweden). There are many people over here (including myself) who don't like the politics of the US, but still we love Dolly and we'd love to buy her new album !
Filip
Sweden
Yes, as far as I know, no overseas distributor has taken on the project to release it outside the U.S. However, as with just about any American CD, several overseas stores are likely to bring it in as an import album, making limited quanities available outside the U.S. In fact, I know that Amazon UK is taking orders for it as an import. My assumption is that since most of the songs are patriotic American tunes, the record labels don't think there'll be that big of an interest overseas.

Nov. 4, 2003
Hi again! lol....I forgot to ask before...have you seen the video for Toby Kieth's "I Love This Bar?" Is Dolly in it? It looks sooo much like her and I didn't remember hearing anything about her being in the video but I was just wondering if it was her or not.
M.E.
Haverhill, Mass.
I've had quite a few people write to me about that, asking if it's Dolly or a Dolly impersonator. Actually, I've only seen a split second of the clip once, and it went by so fast that I wasn't able to tell whether it was Dolly or not, and I haven't caught the video again since then. My guess is that it's probably an impersonator, since if Dolly had a cameo in it, I think we would have heard about it.

Nov. 3, 2003
Hi! first of all, I really like your site! Its great how you update it every day. I was wondering...I read that Dolly was supposedly really overweight a while ago...I saw pictures though and she didn't seem overweight at all. Anyways...I know she uses plastic surgery to fix a lot of things, is that how she lost weight too? And...I know the For God and Country CD is supposed to come out nov 11....but do u think a few stores might have it out before then? And do you know how much it might cost?
M.E.
Haverhill, Mass.
Yes, Dolly was quite overweight several years ago, but she never really looked it because she's such a small-framed person to begin with. In the late 1970s through mid-1980s, she was probably somewhere around 50 or 60 pounds overweight. She says she lost it by eating several teeny, tiny meals a day instead of three normal-sized ones. She had lost a lot of weight in the mid-1980s and got too skinny, in my opinion, but she gained a little of it back and has been the same size for 13 or 14 years now. As for the album, you might luck out and find an odd retailer in your community who puts it out a week early or a few days early, but most stores will adhere to the Nov. 11 release date and won't have it out until then. I'd expect most stores to sell it for around $14 or $15.

Oct. 27, 2003
For a minute I thought Lily Tomlin died. I just glanced and saw "her ceremony" and "to honor their friend." I couldn't believe it. Till I read closer, I was feeling really old for a minute lol. Ok I'm done.
Robin
St. Louis, Mo.
It didn't even cross my mind that it might sound like Lily was dead :) Thankfully, she isn't, so we'll continue to see her on The West Wing this season! The news item, posted Friday night, was a reminder that Dolly and Jane Fonda would be participating on Sunday in a ceremony in Washington, D.C., to bestow onto Lily the Mark Twain Prize for American Comedy. The ceremony will air in a television special on PBS in November.

Oct. 18, 2003
wow! what a great website! there are 2 or 3 other dolly websites i surf from time to time but yours is hands down the best. i especially like the way you get the word out to dolly's fans about special events & stuff like the documentary that tai & valerie are doing. i had the pleasure of doing an interview with them over in pigeon forge last christmas; hopefully i won't end up on the cutting room floor! do you have any more news on when the movie will come out, & also, did you yourself get interviewed? (you should have, really, if only for all your hard work on behalf of your fellow dolly parton fans.) well, thanks again, & keep up the good work, duane!
Sarah Beth Underwood
Asheville, N.C.
Thanks, Sarah, for your kind words. Yes, I was interviewed for the documentary and absolutely loved hanging out with Val and Tai and their crew. They were great! Last I heard from them a few weeks ago, they were still getting some final filming done and working in post-production, expecting the film to be out next summer or fall.

Oct. 18, 2003
Any idea on when Dolly's OPRAH appearance (taped on October 20) will be telecast? Any definite air date?
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
As a matter of fact, I just posted tonight's news update announcing the scheduled air date of Thursday, Oct. 23.

Oct. 17, 2003
A definitive recording is Shania Twain's version of Coat of Many Colors. Even her harshest critics will have to recognize her as a significant talent; other than being a sexy pop stylist. Twain's recording is the highlight of the tribute album. I also love Me'Shell N'Degeocello's version of Two Doors Down. She re-invents the song and demonstrates the universally of Parton's work; an important quality largely missed in the rest of the album's selections.
Dominic Darrah
Toronto, Ont., Canada
Thanks for your input, Dominic. I, too, adored Shania's take on the Dolly classic from the tribute album Just Because I'm A Woman: Songs Of Dolly Parton. The new "Two Doors Down" took some getting used to, but the more I heard it, the more I liked it. And it is proof that Dolly's songwriting genius transcends musical genres.

Oct. 16, 2003
I saw on a website and thought it was maybe something for promotions and keeping kids in school. It was her in a cap and gown with a doctorate from Carson Newman College? Did she graduate from college? I didn't know this.
Robin
St. Louis, Mo.
No, Dolly never attended college, although she was the first in her family to complete high school. Carson-Newman College, a small college in Tennessee, presented her with an honorary doctorate of letters in 1990 in recognition of her efforts to improve education in East Tennessee, where the programs of her Dollywood Foundation reduced the Sevier Country high-school drop-out rate from the highest in the nation to below 5 percent.

Oct. 16, 2003
I have JUST BECAUSE I'M A WOMAN, Songs of Dolly Parton-- the tribute album. I have to honestly admit that it was hard listeing to Dolly's songs being sung by other women and not in their Dolly style or at the pace that she usually sings them in. Some pop times were so "slowed down" that TWO DOORS DOWN didn't even sound like "she was laughing and drinkin' and having a party" at all. I'm a die hard DOLLY fan--you notice a BIG difference someone else does her songs--I am so used to her. I still love ya DOLLY. Nobody sings your songs as perfectly as you "THE REAL..... LIVE..... DOLLY!
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
Thanks for your comments. I have to admit that I agree no one can sing 'em like Dolly, but I genuinely enjoyed all of the versions on the tribute album, and the more I've listened to them over the past few months, the more I've come to love them. I think Dolly's originals are better on each, of course, but these ladies did an awesome job, in my opinion. My mother, however, disagrees. I gave her a copy of the album and she said the only ones she can tolerate are "Coat Of Many Colors" and "I Will Always Love You" but that she hated all of the other versions and that she believes it's very rare that any artist other than Dolly can do justice to a Dolly song. But everyone has his or her own opinion :)

Oct. 16, 2003
HELP. CAN ANYONE TELL ME THE NAME OF THE SONG DOLLY SANG WITH A YOUNGER MAN IN BLUE VALLEY SONG BIRD.. THANX FOLKS
Kathleen Sandes
Powys, Wales
The song is titled "We Might Be In Love" and was performed in the film with Billy Dean. Although Dolly wrote the song, she has never recorded it for commercial release.

Oct. 13, 2003
Got a question... On the Dollywood web site under merchandise they show two videos. One is "Dollywood" and the other is "Heart Songs". Can you give some details as to what is on these? And, Do you know if any of Dolly's recent concerts have been taped for a possible DVD release?
Derek
Columbus, Ohio
The "Dollywood" video is one about the park called Dollywood: A Memory Worth Repeating, and was produced several years ago as a video tour of the park. Heartsongs is the video of the "Heartsongs" show at the park, which features Dolly singing snippets of her various songs to the background of country life in the Smokies. As for her concerts, Dolly did tape her December concerts at the park last year for possible DVD release or a television special, but nothing has materialized on those yet. Although she had said in an interview they would air on CMT, they did not.

Oct. 8, 2003
Dolly is to appear on Jay Leno on Friday at 10pm on FTN in england it says in the TV guide she will guest with Cate Beckinsale and I was wondering if you know the content of the show since I have not seen it before Thanks, Laura
North Yorkshire, England
The show is a new one, which will air in the U.S. on Oct. 9, will feature Dolly performing "Jolene" as a duet with Mindy Smith, who recorded the song for next week's tribute album Just Because I'm A Woman: Songs Of Dolly Parton.

Oct. 7, 2003
Hi Duane, I was just wondering if anything has been stated recently about the For God & Country tour that Dolly plans to do. I know that any info would be on the site but I was wondering whether you heard anything and if you think she will tour. Again, thanks for the wonderful site.
Anthony
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Thanks for your letter. The most recent news I had (which is just a few weeks old now) was that there are no plans to tour in 2003, but she is considering putting a tour together for sometime in 2004 to support the CD (even though that will be months after it was released). Nothing has been finalized yet, though.

Oct. 4, 2003
I love Dolly...but my daughter has always looked up to her ( and not in height) When Misty was 3 she love to draw she always drew Dolly. She had the greatest thrill when she got to sing & dance at Dollywood in 2001. She loved it. She got to know Dolly`s niece and loves her and her family. Misty is now in Nashville Tn. She graduated college there and stayed. She meet Dolly at a book signing at Walmart I think ..in Nashville...She was so excited she cryed. She said Mama I couldn`t help it I cryed and Dolly was so sweet about that...Maybe someday Dolly can even go see Misty sing.....wouldn`t that be something..Everyone says she writes like Dolly...Thank you Dolly for helping so many young children...and young girls..You are wonderful...Even Moms Love You.…
Betty
Hollywood, Ga.
What a sweet story. Yes, Dolly is special to us all, and maybe she'll see your letter!

Oct. 3, 2003
Greetings! Just a quick note to say you have an AMAZING web site......but, why have you not mentioned the delay by Sugar Hill in posting the latest track to the tribute to Dolly cd this past Monday? I keep checking their site and yours, but so far, no mention is made as to why no new track was released. I really do appreciate your site as you keep me posted when new material is released. I anxiously await word of what will be contained in the Dolly dvd coming in October. Thanks again!
Joe Flanagan
Oakland, N.J.
Thanks for your comments, Joe. I was actually out of town on Monday, returning from Nashville for Randy Kohrs and Shaunna Larkin's wedding, so when I returned and saw it hadn't been updated, I assumed they were running a little behind. When nothing showed up on Tuesday or Wednesday, I began to think they weren't going to update it any longer since the label has already posted 30-second clips of all 13 songs on its e-card for the album here, and CMT is doing the track-a-day promotion now here. But on Thursday, they updated the site to add Sinéad O'Connor's cover of "Dagger Through The Heart." here. Also, links to the 30-second clips of all of the songs are available on the Just Because I'm A Woman: Songs Of Dolly Parton page on Dollymania here.

Sept. 30, 2003
I can say with certain accuracy why Dolly wrote "Brave Little Soldier." I was in Pigeon Forge in 1994 and at Dollywood when Dolly recorded HEARTSONGS: Live fron Home -- in the audience. I would come to know that it was written for Dolly's niece. But at the concert she dedicated it to her "little-est fans who have the biggest problems to overcome." I also saw nothing wrong with Dolly's costume -- I saw the John Walsh Show. Do you think she'd dress inappropriately in front of her family--some of her own young nieces and nephews? Brain--washing little kids? Dolly? Absolutely NOT! Brainwashing is severly abusing someone mentally--and so horribly and repeatedly that eventually they believe what they are told. Ask someone who has been abused--I've been there....I am also DISABLED Dolly abusing or controlling kid's on national tv? Absolutely NOT TRUE! Seems like Sandra is very bitter about something.....and has nothing else better to gripe about and Dolly is her target. John Walsh fights crime and for those who suffer severe abuse--as he has done since his son Adam Walsh was murdered. Don't you think that if he thought Dolly was abusing children, by singing "BRAVE LITTLE SOLDIER" -- he would ask her not to sing it. It is only a SONG. I do NOT AGREE WITH YOU... How many other Dolly fans agree with ME?? Shame on YOU Sandra
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
Thanks, Bonnie, for your letter. Yes, I agree that Sandra's letter (scroll down to Sept. 16 update) was ill-informed and not well thought out. However, I can see how, given the current international circumstances and date on which the special aired, someone who didn't know anything about Dolly could misinterpret the meaning of the song, but anyone with the least amount of knowledge about Dolly would not have reached the conclusion Sandra did. I hope she sees that she was mistaken.

Sept. 30, 2003
Hope ya'll can help me with this one. I am a Dolly impersonator in the southern ca region. A film crew for the BBC came to a show I was in last year saying that they were filming for a documentary on Dolly to be aired in the UK. Do you know if this project was finished or aired? I think it was called, Platinum Blonde. Any more info on it would be much appreciated. Thanks, Kisses,
Jewels
Hollywood, Calif.
Yes, the BBC aired the special in January, and it was a hit. The show, which aired fairly late at night at about 10:30 p.m., garnered slightly more than 25 percent of all viewers watching TV in Great Britain during that time slot.

Sept. 30, 2003
Hi! I know that Dolly plays guitar well. I was wondering, what type of guitar does she have?
Meg
Haverhill, Maine
Well, she plays several different guitars (acoustic, electric, "wah-wah," and a special miniature electric guitar as well) by a variety of manufacturers . She learned how to play using a small Martin her uncle gave her when she was 8 years old and is regarded as one of Nashville's preeminent female pickers, although she has to remove her false fingernails to really get into her playing. She also plays banjo, piano, drums, dulcimer and autoharp.

Sept. 27, 2003
I am responding to Sandra's letter. I think you ought to know that Brave Little Soldier was written by her famous aunt for one of Dolly's beloved nieces who was facing a life threating disease. That has nothing to do with war. It has every thing to do with the way Dolly's niece battled---to live. Don't you dare bash Dolly! Shame on YOU!
Bonnie Brien
Green Bay, Wis.
Yes, Sandra, that is why Dolly said she wrote the song, and it has nothing to do with war. (Scroll down to Sept. 16 letter to read Sandra's complaint about the song as performed on The John Walsh Show on Sept. 11.)

Sept. 26, 2003
We have the junior yearbook picture with Dolly's senior picture. How much is it worth?
Madeline Colon
Ft. Myers, Fla.
The yearbooks are fairly rare, since Dolly did attend a small school, but unfortunately that means they aren't traded frequently enough for me to have a good idea of their value. I did see a couple of Dolly's yearbooks sell on ebay a year or two ago, and if I recall correctly they went for several hundred dollars each. That's the best I can do. Hope it helps.

Sept. 18, 2003
DUANE, I'VE PASSED YOUR SITE SEVERAL TIMES, TODAY I STOPPED. I'm glad I did. I have been a Dolly fan since I was five years old. It's great to know that you are there to keep us updated. Being a fan since 1975 I finally got to meet Dolly, mom & dad, a couple of brothers and sisters. I've seen dolly 74 times in the last twelve to thirteen years. Thanks for the great site and information.
Marty Sanchez
Albuquerque, N.M.
Marty, thanks so much for your kind words. I just do my best, and I'm always thrilled to hear from other Dolly fans who enjoy the site. Keep coming back!

Sept. 18, 2003
I'm trying to find out if Dolly ever sang a song "Never Ending Love." Its a remake of a song "never ending song of love"; and what album of dolly's would it would be on. Thanks.
Sue
Union City, N.J.
No, unfortunately Dolly has never released a remake of that song. Sorry.

Sept. 16, 2003
I saw Dolly on my lunch break on 9-11 singing a TOTALLY INAPPROPIATE song to children about being a little soldier. Shame on you, Dolly. What kind of brainwashing are you adding to those children's lives. The lyrics were completely inappropiate for children, especially so young. Your outfit was not what you should have worn in the company of children either. The impact that a figure such as yourself has is immense. You have been totally irresponsible. I have also written John Walsh's tv show website with the same. I am ashamed to be an American watching such garbage on tv with so called American patriotism crap you dished out to children. I am a disabled American Veteran and a woman.
Sandra
Shelton, Conn.
Thank you for your letter, and I respect that you have an opinion about the song "Brave Little Soldier." However, while singing the song given the current world situation would lead one to think its message is about war and actual soldiers, the song was written many years ago and has no literal connection to either. Instead, it is a metaphor composed as a song of inspiration to children using the idea that kids shouldn't sit by and accept difficulties thrust upon them such as abuse or poverty and just give up but should fight to improve their lives and overcome the obstacles in their way. When she introduced the song on her 1995 live concert album, she noted: "I've written lots of songs about being positive, about having a great deal of faith and hope, 'cause it takes a great deal of courage to face the challenges of everyday living, especially for the little kids. I'd like to dedicate this next song to my littlest fans, who sometimes have the biggest problems to overcome." Perhaps wearing a camouflage outfit to perform the song was taking the metaphor a little too far, but I'm sure she meant it to be "cute" not warmongering. Anyone who publicly pleaded for all Americans to forgive the Dixie Chicks for making comments they may disagree with and return to supporting them by buying their records as "the American thing to do" generally wouldn't be considered a war hawk.

Sept. 16, 2003
I Walk The Line. Always loved Dolly's version of this from 1984!! Would make great tribute to Cash. Great if we could convince a label to release it as a single.
Dominic Darrah
Toronto, Canada
Yes, it's a great cover by Dolly from her album The Great Pretender. When I first heard it, I thought she was even trying to sing in a style reminiscent of Johnny himself, and I think it's a fitting tribute to one of her heroes.