The incomparable legend died at the age of 80 on Aug. 25, 2026.
On a list of accolades that includes 10 Grammys, 22 Billboard Hot 100 hits and inductions into both the Country Music and Rock & Roll Halls of Fame, Dolly Parton was also a Billboard cover star.
The legendary musician and cultural icon — whose death at age 80 on Tuesday (Aug. 25) has made for an indescribable loss — was on the cover of Billboard in 2020, a historically difficult year for many during which Parton’s infallible optimism and kindness were needed more than ever.
She spoke to executive editor Melinda Newman about keeping her groundbreaking Dollywood enterprise on its feet in the face of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic at the time, as well as her industry savvy and endurance over the course of her six-decade career.
Above everything, though, she emphasized her commitment to generosity.
Parton was also featured six years prior in a 2014 issue of Billboard, answering questions about everything from her long marriage to late husband Carl Dean to her love for her LGBTQ fanbase and position as a role model with her signature sparkling wit.
People relate to me because I grew up poor and in a big family. They know I understand all the hardships.”.
In honor of the irreplaceable superstar, take a look at the photos from Parton’s unforgettable shoots with Billboard in 2020 and 2014 below.
Dolly Parton photographed on September 29, 2014 at NorthStar Studios in Nashville.
Fontes
Informação baseada em material público de Billboard, reescrito pela redação ULTRA NOTÍCIAS.