Billboard has ranked Dolly Parton #1 on their prestigious list of the "100 Greatest Country Artists of All Time." The list, compiled by Billboard’s editorial team, highlights the most influential and enduring figures in country music. Dolly’s spot at the top solidifies her legacy as a trailblazer whose impact transcends generations. Known for her signature voice, unparalleled songwriting, and boundless charisma, Dolly has become a symbol of resilience, creativity, and authenticity in both country music and popular culture.
In celebration of this top honor, the Billboard staff also counted down their top 10 staff picks for Dolly's Best Songs of All Time.
Billboard’s accolade adds to Dolly’s extraordinary legacy, reminding the world of her unmatched contributions to music. Her influence spans genres, inspiring artists like Taylor Swift, Reba McEntire, and even performers in pop, rock, and hip-hop.
As the reigning queen of country music, Dolly continues to shine as a global icon and a beacon of hope, humor, and heart. Whether through her songs, her philanthropy, or her joyful presence, Dolly proves why she is, and always will be, the greatest.
Check out the full list of Billboard’s 100 Greatest Country Artists of All Time on Billboard.com.
Dolly Parton has been an inspiring and comforting voice for generations of fans around the world her entire career. This year, when we all could use a little extra cheer, Dolly has once again provided solace and joy with the release of her latest holiday album, A Holly Dolly Christmas, which has reached the #1 spot on both the Billboard Country and Holiday charts in its first week. The album released on Butterfly Records in partnership with 12Tone Music is available for purchase and streaming worldwide.
“Who needs Santa Claus when we’ve got Dolly Parton? She’s giving us just the right gift at just the right time: ‘A Holly Dolly Christmas,’ which is an escapist bow to wrap up what has been a terrible 2020. If Dolly Parton can’t make you feel better after a year like this, no one can” – USA Today Network
The festive album’s meteoric rise to the top of the charts makes Dolly the second artist in history with top 10 albums across seven decades, following only Willie Nelson, and Dolly’s 46th top 10 album. Nelson also makes a special appearance with Dolly on the track “Pretty Paper” off this latest all-genre holiday collection. The incredible achievement is a testament to Dolly’s timeless songwriting and music that has always and continues to draw fans. Dolly states,
“I have many things to celebrate this Christmas, one being the success of my Holly Dolly Christmas album becoming number 1. Thanks to all of my fans out there and Merry Christmas to all of you.”
A Holly Dolly Christmas Track Listing:
2020 has been a year that has truly shown Dolly’s cultural impact and a staying power that few artists ever achieve. The icon continues to influence mainstream movements, such as this year’s massively successful social media #DollyPartonChallenge, proving her appeal resonates among fans of all ages and crosses every musical genre.
The August 15 issue of Billboard features Dolly Parton in an exclusive cover story. In what is sure to become one of the magazine’s most sought after issues, Dolly Parton shares some of her best business strategies and talks about making tough decisions during the pandemic. Dolly also talks about her new holiday album, “A Holly Dolly Christmas” due out on Oct. 2, 2020.
Parton photographed July 6 in Nashville. Styling and wardrobe design by Steve Summers. Hair by Cheryl Riddle.
“A Holly Dolly Christmas” is available now worldwide for digital pre-add/pre-save/pre-order, exclusive pre-order bundles, and physical pre-order.
Shop exclusive pre-order bundles
Pre-Order the album on iTunes or Amazon
Pre-Save the album on Spotify, Deezer or Apple Music
Dolly's parents, Robert Lee and Avie Lee Parton raised 12 children in a tiny cabin in East Tennessee. They taught all their children to appreciate what they had, even if that was very little at times. In turn, Dolly always found joy in giving back to her family, especially her parents. Dolly said,
"It was always my wish to be able to do something great for my family. And, of course, I love my Daddy and my Mamma."
Find out what Dolly calls the "Dolly Mamma" in this exclusive Billboard video.
