Country music icon Dolly Parton, who reluctantly entered the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame last year, is set to break musical boundaries once again with her upcoming album, “Rockstar,” signaling a bold departure from her country roots.
In an unexpected twist, the album features legendary collaborations, including “Every Breath You Take” with Sting, “Baby, I Love Your Way” with Peter Frampton, and “Heart of Glass” with Debbie Harry. Parton’s musical journey takes a surprising turn with creative collaborations like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” with Pink and Brandi Carlile, and “Stairway to Heaven” with Lizzo on flute.
Despite her initial reservations about being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Parton seized the opportunity to venture into rock music. The album also boasts original songs, including gems like “My Blue Tears” and the cheeky “I Dreamed About Elvis.”
Notably, the lead single, “World on Fire,” takes a theatrical arena rock approach, delivering a powerful message inspired by global events. Parton, known for her sensitivity to human suffering, felt compelled to write the song after witnessing numerous natural disasters.
Addressing speculations about political undertones in her lyrics, Parton clarifies, “I’m not political. I hate politics. This is not about politics. This is about saving the world as opposed to destroying it.”
While “Rockstar” marks Parton’s foray into rock, she hints at future genre exploration. The country legend expresses a desire to delve into R&B and blues, hinting at the diverse musical landscapes she may conquer in the future.
As Dolly Parton continues to surprise and captivate audiences, “Rockstar” promises to be a unique chapter in her storied career, showcasing the versatility and enduring creativity of this musical icon.