Dolly Parton Jason Kempin/Getty Images for American Greetings
Dolly Parton's rockstar status was solidified with the release of her latest album. On Friday, November 17, fans eagerly awaited the arrival of "Rockstar," a rock LP boasting an impressive 30 tracks and numerous guest stars. The album received ecstatic reviews from fans, with one posting on X (formerly Twitter), "Dolly Parton's album dropped today. Nobody talk to me." Another fan gushed, "Omg, the new #Rockstar album by Dolly Parton is actually amazing! It's such a vibe." Immediately following the release, one fan proclaimed their unwavering adoration for the 77-year-old music legend, stating that their love for her "goes to 11."
Parton's Rockstar album features cover songs from some of the biggest rock hits, including "Stairway to Heaven," "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," and even a rendition of Prince's "Purple Rain." Fans were deeply moved and expressed their emotions online. One fan raved, "The Dolly Parton version of Purple Rain from her Rockstar album gives me chills. It's so incredibly good." Another fan tearfully shared, "Dolly Parton's version of Purple Rain is simply breathtaking. I find myself crying every time I listen to it. Thank you, [Dolly], for this beautiful tribute to Prince."
Excited about the release, Parton took to social media to express her pride and happiness regarding the album. She shared, "I am beyond proud of the 'Rockstar' album and thrilled that it is finally being released! Working with these iconic artists and musicians was an absolute joy. Plus, the opportunity to revisit these incredible, iconic songs is something I believe everyone will love. I just hope that you enjoy my interpretation of them! #Rockstar is OUT NOW!"
Some of Parton’s Rockstar collaborators also took to the internet to share their experiences. Among them was John Fogerty, the singer and rock icon from Creedence Clearwater Revival. He disclosed, “Around a year ago, when I received my songs back... I made my way to Dollywood to record a rendition of the track 'Long As I Can See The Light' with the incredible Dolly for her newly released album 'Rockstar'."
Dolly Parton and Jaclyn Stapp take the stage at the Dolly Parton's Rockstar VIP Album Release Party with American Greetings in Nashville, Tennessee on November 16, 2023. Chris Stapleton, who collaborated with Dolly on a cover of Bob Seger's "Night Moves," shared the track with his fans. In addition, guitar legend Peter Frampton expressed his gratitude for being included on the album and his excitement for everyone to hear their collaboration on "Baby, I Love Your Way."
Rockstar showcases a star-studded lineup including Miley Cyrus ("Wrecking Ball"), Joan Jett and the Blackhearts ("I Hate Myself For Loving You"), Michael McDonald ("Bittersweet"), Steve Perry from Journey ("Open Arms"), Sting ("Every Breath You Take"), Debbie Harry ("Heart of Glass"), Simon Le Bon ("My Blue Tears"), Rob Halford ("Bygones"), and the iconic duo of Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr from the Beatles ("Let It Be").
Parton faced criticism for featuring "Either Or" with Kid Rock on the album due to his involvement in boycotting Bud Light over their partnership with trans activist/personality Dylan Mulvaney for a TikTok ad. Despite this, Parton, a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, defended her decision to include Kid Rock's song on Rockstar in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
During a recent conversation, someone approached me with a question about collaborating on a song with Kid Rock. In response, I simply conveyed that my love for them does not diminish my love for Kid Rock, and vice versa. It is important to note that I refrain from passing judgment or expressing disapproval; instead, I choose to embrace and cherish all individuals.