After attending the 50th Annual CMA awards I was inspired to start a series to spotlight the very artists I grew up listening to, the artists of yesterday that forged the path, are the idols of today’s country artists and the ones that have left a legacy of great country music. Today, and the sixth of the series, is about Dolly Parton.

When someone says country darling you can’t help think of Dolly Parton. Its no secret Parton has always been proud to call Tennessee home, recently making headlines for spearheading fundraisers to help out the hometown and community she loves with raising funds for the families and businesses affected by the Tennessee wildfires. Along with her philanthropy, Parton has been known as one of the greatest female entertainer’s this genre has ever seen. This past November Pentatonix, Jennifer Nettles, Reba McEntire, Kacey Musgraves, Carrie Underwood and Martina McBride all joined forces to pay tribute to our Queen of Country for her numerous years of hits and contribution as a songwriter.

Parton even inspires the youngest of fans, just days ago a video of a 3 year old singing “Jolene” went viral. From the cutest of 3 year old’s, to the very talent Whitney Houston, Parton is a complete inspiration to the world with her kind spirit, unforgettable music and bigger than life personality and style. May Country’s Queen forever reign!