The legendary singer has announced her retirement from touring after 76 years. Although she no longer wants to perform live, she still plans to continue writing new music.
Recently, Dolly explained her decision to stop touring, stating that she will only present one-of-a-kind performances from now on. This marks a shift from her earlier, more comprehensive tours, as she aims to spend more time focusing on her marriage and music.
In 1964, in Tennessee, Dolly (age 18) met Carl Dean (age 21). Carl immediately recognized Dolly’s remarkable qualities. He reportedly declared upon their first meeting, “I’m going to marry that girl.”
They dated for a few months before getting married on May 17, 1966, in a small ceremony. More than 50 years later, their marriage is still going strong.
Dolly recalls Carl catching her attention when he yelled at her from his pickup truck, describing him as “gorgeous.” Although she initially turned down his invitation for a date, she invited him over to her home a few days later. They quickly fell in love once they started dating. Despite facing their share of challenges over the years, they have always managed to overcome them together.
What is it about this relationship that has kept them together for so long? It could be their unwavering love for each other or their shared enjoyment of country music. Regardless, Dolly and Carl Dean serve as an inspiration to us all.
In May 1966, Dolly and Carl exchanged vows in a small ceremony in Ringgold, Georgia. Her record company had urged them to postpone the wedding due to her budding career, but Dolly and Carl couldn’t wait any longer. They chose to marry in Georgia rather than Tennessee to avoid media attention. The only attendees were Dolly, Carl, and her mother.
Since their wedding anniversary in 2016, Dolly and Carl have remained a devoted couple. To honor their love, they decided to renew their vows.
As they grow older, Dolly and Carl plan to spend more time together. In an interview with Pollstar, Parton discussed her experiences related to touring:
“I’ve done that all my life; it takes effort and time. I would rather stay near my home with my husband. I don’t want to be away for four or five weeks at a time because we are getting older.”
“I wouldn’t be content if I were away and someone needed me. Or, if I had to end a tour early because I had to help someone at home, I couldn’t abandon the fans. I would feel awful.”
Dolly has also revealed that her latest musical compositions will include rock and roll. Earlier this year, she was nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Despite the influence her marriage has had on her creativity, she is eager to continue writing songs in this genre.
Dolly Parton has expressed her long-held desire to be nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. As she completes her new album, she will also be working on an NBC Christmas special.
