How to Have a Country Music Career Like Dolly Parton

Despite her humble beginnings as the daughter of a tobacco sharecropper, Dolly Parton is one of the most successful female country recording artists of all time. An accomplished singer, actress and entrepreneur, Dolly is a shining example of what one can achieve through hard work and determination. With a lot of talent, some luck and an undying work ethic, perhaps you can attain a country music career like Dolly Parton.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Start young. Exposed to music from an early age, Parton began singing on radio and television programs in Tennessee from age nine. At just thirteen, Dolly sang at the Grand Ole Opry and recorded her first album.

2. Have something to sing about. Like those of Tammy Wynette and other female pioneers of country music, Dolly's lyrics often refer to growing up in impoverished Appalachia. Parton's "Coat of Many Colors" and "Appalachian Memories" relay especially poignant stories about her childhood.

3. Develop a signature look. Her big, blonde hair, bold makeup, flashy sequined dresses and legendary hourglass figure set Dolly apart from other performers.

4. Expand your fan base. Landing roles in films like "9 to 5" and "Steel Magnolias," introduced Parton to those outside her country music audience. To that end, Dolly also released many crossover hits, like "Here You Come Again" and " I Will Always Love You."

5. Change with the times. Parton's career took a hit in the early 1990's, when young recording artists with a new style dominated the country music industry. In response, she went back to her roots, recording the "Honky Tonk Angels" album with Tammy Wynette and Loretta Lynn and releasing her bluegrass-oriented record, "Little Sparrow."

6. Open a theme park. Dollywood, Parton's Smokey Mountain amusement park, features family oriented attractions. Gospel, bluegrass, mountain and country music performances entertain longtime Dolly Parton fans and introduce new generations to her musical heritage.

7. Wow your fans with memorable concerts. Amid numerous costume changes and dazzling light displays, Parton's angelic voice sounds as good live as it does on the radio. An added delight, the diverse star plays the autoharp, banjo, harmonica and other instruments when performing live.

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[Susie1975]

on 7/16/2008 I don't know where this comment will go, but here it is. I am 33, I live in NJ, and I have a book full of Country songs that I have written. I have been singing all my life and want to make a career out of it...where do I start?