Dolly Parton, born Dolly Rebecca Parton on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tennessee, is an American singer-songwriter, actress, and philanthropist. She is primarily known for her decades-long career in country music.

Dolly Parton began her musical journey at a young age, appearing on Knoxville TV at 12 and recording on a small label by 13. After graduating from high school in 1964, she moved to Nashville to pursue her country-singing career.

She gained national attention when she joined The Porter Wagoner Show in 1967, leading to a successful partnership with Porter Wagoner.

Dolly Parton married Carl Dean on May 30, 1966, and they are still together. She was raised in a large family with 11 siblings, including Willadeene, David, Coy, Robert Jr., Stella, Cassie, Randy, Larry, Floyd, and twins Freida and Rachel. Her parents, Robert Lee Parton and Avie Lee Parton, were instrumental in her upbringing, with her mother being a singer who taught Dolly church music and traditional ballads.

Her career took off with her debut solo album, Hello, I'm Dolly, in 1967. She achieved significant success in the 1970s and 1980s with hits like "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," "I Will Always Love You," and "9 to 5."

She has composed over 3,000 songs and has had 25 singles reach No. 1 on the Billboard country music charts. Dolly Parton has also ventured into acting, starring in films such as 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Rhinestone, and Steel Magnolias.

She has received numerous awards, including 11 Grammy Awards, 10 Country Music Association Awards, and four People's Choice Awards. She is also a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and has been nominated for Academy Awards, Tony Awards, and Emmy Awards.

Her philanthropic efforts are notable, with her founding the Dollywood Foundation and the Imagination Library, which has provided millions of books to children worldwide. Her impact on the music industry and her ability to push the boundaries of music and video have made her a cultural icon.