My Experience Immersed in Dolly Parton's Epic 2 1/2 Hour-Long Rockstar Album

Dolly Parton, a national treasure, has long been acknowledged as an essential facet of American culture. However, when she was offered the prestigious honor of being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last year, the septuagenarian singer-songwriter-actress, also known for her ownership of theme parks and entrepreneurial ventures, politely declined. Parton humbly stated that she did not perceive herself as a prominent figure in the realm of rock and roll.

Parton perceived a opportunity to establish herself as a rockstar and decided to take on the challenge after her spouse proposed the idea of a rock album. This led her on a remarkable journey that recently concluded with the release of her forty-ninth solo studio album, aptly named "Rockstar."

This record is an extraordinary occasion, spanning over 140 minutes with 30 tracks, and even includes three bonus songs on the limited edition CD. It brings to mind a time not too distant when albums were cohesive works of art (who can forget the notion of a "concept album"?).

"Rockstar" kicks off with enthusiasm as the initial title track, showcasing the talents of Richie Sambora and incorporating a captivating blend of spoken vocals. These vocals serve as a gentle reminder to the audience that this is the rock album that Parton has long aspired to create since her youth.

Cover of "Rockstar" by Dolly Parton.

Butterfly Records/AP

The second track, "World on Fire," is an authentic song that successfully aims to provoke and challenge societal norms, just like a true rockstar would.

Following that, the album delves deeply into cover songs, showcasing Parton's unique ability to draw in a remarkable array of collaborators. Many of them return to perform their signature songs, an opportunity they wouldn't pass up, especially when it involves collaborating with Dolly herself.

The results are a mixed bag. The collaboration between Ann Wilson of Heart and "Magic Man (Carl Version)" is truly remarkable, but the energy from John Fogerty's rendition of "Long As I Can See the Light" feels somewhat unnecessary. Other missteps include the collaboration with Kid Rock on an original track, as well as the unnecessary update of Queens' "We Are the Champions/We Will Rock You."

However, these missteps can be overlooked when considering the shining moments of the album, such as Dolly Parton's transcendent rendition of Prince's "Purple Rain." Her version is respectful and stripped down, allowing her powerful vocals to take center stage. It occurred to me that I had never come across a cover of "Purple Rain," especially since Prince's passing. Yet, Dolly fearlessly took on the challenge and delivered a remarkable rendition.

Dolly Parton's duet with her goddaughter Miley Cyrus on a revamped version of Cyrus' 2013 hit "Wrecking Ball" is an impressive highlight. We didn't even realize we wanted it.

Describing Dolly letting loose on "Rockstar" would be an understatement. The album features enjoyable moments, such as collaborations with Stevie Nicks, Melissa Etheridge, and Ronnie McDowell. McDowell joins Parton in an energetic tribute to Elvis Presley, and their playful banter is just as captivating as their singing.

On February 10, 2019, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, Dolly Parton and Miley Cyrus took the stage to perform together at the 61st annual Grammy Awards. Excitingly, they collaborated on a fresh rendition of Cyrus' hit song "Wrecking Ball," which is now featured on Parton's latest album.

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

With a refreshing twist brought by Pink and Brandi Carlile, her rendition of The Rolling Stones' "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" surpasses the original. Additionally, the timeless hits like Peter Frampton's "Baby I Love Your Way" and Kevin Cronin's "Keep on Loving You," known by everyone, give the album an almost flawless karaoke-like experience. And of course, Parton reunites with Frampton and Cronin for their heartfelt ballads.

The song selection "Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me" by Elton John brings up the timeless question of what truly constitutes a rock 'n' roll song, but Parton's dedication proves to be worthwhile.

Additionally, we have the remarkable rendition of "Stairway to Heaven," lasting almost 8 minutes and showcasing the talented Lizzo on her flute, known as Sasha Flute. This unique combination of elements creates a captivating and enchanting experience, despite the absence of the remaining members of Led Zeppelin.

Overall, it is evident that Parton put a lot of passion into this project, as can be clearly heard on tracks like her rendition of 4 Non Blondes' "Whats Up?" featuring Linda Perry, and "Heartbreaker" with Pat Benatar and Neil Geraldo. While listening to these covers may initially provoke a surprised reaction - like, seriously? She picked that one?! - Parton's signature sincerity shines through on the album, despite the staggering number of 21 cover songs included in the tracklist.