Dolly Parton, the legendary country music icon, has always been synonymous with hard work, creativity, and an unwavering love for her craft. As she approaches 80 years old, many would expect that she might start considering a more relaxed lifestyle or even retirement. However, Parton has made it crystal clear that retirement is not on her radar—at least not anytime soon. In a recent interview with Ken Bruce on Greatest Hits Radio, the 79-year-old singer revealed that she has no intention of slowing down. Instead, she jokingly shared that the only way she’d “retire” is if she were to “drop dead in the middle of a song onstage,” preferably one that she’s written.
It’s a statement that perfectly encapsulates Dolly’s larger-than-life persona and commitment to her art. Despite being a global icon, Parton remains humble, grounded, and fully committed to her music. She has spent more than six decades entertaining fans worldwide, and she isn’t ready to stop anytime soon. As she explained, “As long as I’m able to work, as long as my health is good and my husband is good, the only way that I would ever slow down would be for that reason.” Parton’s devotion to her work is evident in her relentless schedule and her attitude toward her fans and career. She added, “In the meantime, I’m going to make hay while the sun shines,” indicating that she plans to continue creating and performing as long as she is physically able.
In a world where many celebrities are constantly chasing the next big thing or turning to technology to extend their legacy, Dolly Parton has a unique perspective. The country legend has long been recognized for her ability to balance tradition with innovation. She is open to evolving and trying new things, but she also values the authenticity of her work and the personal connection she has built with her fans over the years. This is where Parton’s views on technology and artificial intelligence (AI) come into play.
During the same interview, Parton addressed the growing trend of artists using AI to keep their work alive after they’ve passed. Holograms of deceased artists performing onstage have become more common in recent years, with the most notable example being the virtual return of Tupac Shakur at the 2012 Coachella Festival. While many see this as a way to keep an artist’s legacy alive, Parton has expressed reservations about this approach. She has made it clear that she doesn’t want her “soul” to remain on Earth through high-tech methods like holograms or digital recreations. “I have to decide how much of that high-tech stuff I want to be involved [with] because I don’t want to leave my soul here on this earth,” she stated.
For Parton, it’s important to leave behind a legacy that feels authentic, not artificial. She’s incredibly proud of her body of work, which includes 25 studio albums, 11 Grammy Awards, and countless chart-topping hits, but she also wants to be remembered for the joy she brought to people through her performances and songwriting—not through a hologram or digital clone. She added, “I think with some of this stuff I’ll be grounded here forever… I’ll be around, we’ll find ways to keep me here.” It’s a sentiment that speaks to her deep love of music, but also to her personal connection with her fans.
While some artists may embrace the idea of their likeness being used after they pass, Dolly has chosen a different path. She’s created a lasting impact in the music world, and that legacy is tied to her voice, her lyrics, and the love she has always shared with her audience. The idea of living on through a machine just doesn’t sit right with her.
Looking ahead, Parton has a lot to keep her busy. Her highly anticipated rock album, Rockstar, is set to be released on November 17. This album marks a departure from her usual country and bluegrass roots, allowing Parton to explore the rock genre in ways that only she can. “It’s a dream project for me,” she’s said about the album. The album will feature collaborations with some of rock music’s biggest names, and it’s set to show a different side of Dolly, proving that even at 79, she’s not afraid to push the boundaries of her artistry.
Parton’s candidness about her plans for the future, especially her views on retirement and legacy, reflect the enduring qualities that have made her one of the most beloved figures in the entertainment world. Dolly is not just a country music legend; she’s a symbol of perseverance, creativity, and love. Her refusal to retire and her deep commitment to continuing her work, whether it’s through new albums or live performances, is a testament to her lifelong passion for music and for her fans. In a world that’s increasingly obsessed with the latest trends and technology, Dolly Parton remains a timeless figure who reminds us all that authenticity, love, and hard work are what truly matter.
As she continues to make “hay while the sun shines,” Dolly Parton’s fans can rest assured that the Queen of Country has no intention of slowing down any time soon. And when she does eventually step away from the stage, it will be on her own terms—going out in the same way she’s lived her entire life: surrounded by the music, the fans, and the love she’s shared with the world.