Dolly Parton, an iconic figure in both The Country Music Hall of Fame and The Rock And Roll Hall of Fame, demonstrated her versatility and daring spirit when she took on the challenge of recording a rock album. Despite her reservations about singing rock songs, she embarked on this musical journey with determination, recording a staggering 30 songs to push her creative boundaries.
After being inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, Parton was inspired to delve into the rock genre. In this endeavor, she not only showcased her songwriting prowess by penning new rock tracks, such as the socially charged "World On Fire" and the dynamic title track "Rockstar," but also paid homage to her favorite rock classics by collaborating with some of the industry's biggest names.
Parton's collaboration with Miley Cyrus on "Wrecking Ball" brought together two generations of music, blending the timeless appeal of Parton with the contemporary energy of Cyrus. "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" took on a new life with the added flair of P!nk and Brandi Carlile, while Parton fearlessly covered Prince's "Purple Rain" and Queen's iconic anthem "We Are The Champions/We Will Rock You" on her own terms.
For the classic Bob Seger hit "Night Moves," Parton enlisted the soulful voice of Chris Stapleton, creating a powerful rendition that bridged the gap between genres. In another stellar collaboration, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts joined forces with Parton on "I Hate Myself For Loving You," infusing the track with a raw and rebellious energy.
Dolly Parton's venture into rock not only showcased her incredible vocal range but also emphasized her ability to seamlessly navigate diverse musical landscapes. By fearlessly embracing the challenge of a rock album, she solidified her status as a musical pioneer, leaving an indelible mark on both country and rock music history.