Dolly Parton, the beloved country music icon, is set to delve deep into her rich family history and the culture of Southern Appalachia with her upcoming project, Dolly Parton & Family:
Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith & Fables. This comprehensive endeavor includes a new album and a four-part docuseries, both scheduled for release on November 15, 2024, through her Owepar Entertainment imprint.
A Journey Through Time and Heritage
Parton’s latest project is a tribute to her family’s legacy and the cultural roots of East Tennessee.
The album, which is expected to feature up to 40 songs, traces the journey of the Parton and Owens families from the United Kingdom in the 1600s to their home in the Great Smoky Mountains.
This narrative is not only a personal exploration for Parton but also an homage to the broader traditions of Southern Appalachian culture.
Celebrating Family Legacy
The record showcases performances from various members of Parton’s extended family, including both current collaborations and salvaged recordings of ancestors.
One of the central figures highlighted in the project is Reverend Jake Owens, Parton’s grandfather, whose faith and storytelling profoundly influenced her.
These familial connections and personal stories are woven into the fabric of the album, capturing the essence of the region’s musical heritage.
The Docuseries: A Deeper Look
The accompanying docuseries provides an in-depth look at the family’s history, featuring interviews with Parton’s relatives and concert performances filmed at Knoxville’s historic Bijou Theater.
The series places particular emphasis on Reverend Jake Owens and his impact on Parton’s music, faith, and storytelling.
This visual exploration complements the album, offering fans a comprehensive understanding of the family’s journey and cultural significance.
Reflections on a Remarkable Journey
Reflecting on her career, Parton shares, “I cannot believe that it has been 60 years this month since I graduated from Sevier County High School and moved to Nashville to pursue my dreams.
My Uncle Bill Owens was by my side for many years, helping me develop my music.
I owe so much to him and all the family members, past and present, who have inspired me along this journey.
I am honored to spotlight our families’ musical legacy, which is my Smoky Mountain DNA.”
Owepar Entertainment: A Family Affair
The project is produced by Parton’s cousin Richie Owens and is being released through Owepar Entertainment, a company with deep roots in the Parton family.
Founded in 1967 by Dolly and her uncles Bill and Louis Owens, Owepar has been a significant part of her musical journey, publishing songs recorded by renowned artists and managing legacy recordings.
The company, which relaunched in 2019, continues to handle a collection of recordings and publish works from family members and other artists.
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Upcoming Previews and Release
Fans can pre-order Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith & Fables starting June 21, 2024.
The pre-order will include the project’s first pair of preview selections and the complete tracklist, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of stories and songs that Parton has curated for this landmark release.
Embracing Heritage and Innovation
With Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith & Fables, Dolly Parton continues to celebrate her roots while embracing new creative endeavors.
This project not only pays homage to her family and heritage but also solidifies her status as a vital innovator in the world of country music.
As fans eagerly await the album and docuseries, Parton’s exploration of her cultural heritage promises to be a deeply enriching experience for all.
The Information is Collected from Billboard and IMDb.
