by Dolly Parton
First published 2020
Dolly Parton opens her personal archives to reveal the memories and experiences that shaped her most beloved songs. Drawing from over 60 years of songwriting, she shares the stories behind 175 tracks that defined her career. Parton explains how "Jolene" came to life, what inspired "9 to 5," and the personal meaning of "I Will Always Love You." The book features previously unpublished photographs and memorabilia from her private collection. Parton writes in her own voice, offering candid insights into her creative process and the moments that sparked her biggest hits. This New York Times bestseller combines music history with personal memoir, showing how life experiences transform into country classics. Readers discover the woman behind the songs through her own words and rare visual materials that span decades of performance and recording.
Genres: non-fiction, biography-memoir, music
Vibes: emotional, intimate, lyrical
Tropes: personal-journey, storytelling
Period: 20th-Century, 21st-Century
380 pages · Hardcover · Chronicle Books