Dolly Parton Receives Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award

By Patricia Quigley
Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton accepts the Lifetime Achievement Award as singers Kacey Musgraves (L to R), Reba McEntire, Jennifer Nettles, Martina McBride, Carrie Underwood and actress Lily Tomlin applaud at the 50th Annual Country Music Association Awards in Nashville, Tennessee. REUTERS/Harrison McClary

Dolly Parton is synonymous with country music. She has been a force of nature in the country music industry for many years. On November 3, 2016, she was awarded the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award for all her excellence in the music industry.

The award was presented by Lily Tomlin, Parton's co-star in 9 to5. Of Dolly, Tomlin said, "Dolly is country music." Truer words have never been said. Dolly has written over 3,000 songs in her lifetime and starred in multiple films, as well as helped bring 9 to 5 to Broadway. She is a songwriter, actress, philanthropist, businesswoman, and author. To date, Miss Dolly has released over 40 records and continues to be a contributing part of modern country music.

Her songs have gained more popularity in recent years and have been covered by many different artists. The most famous cover being Whitney Houston's version of "I Will Always Love You" for the 1992 film, The Bodyguard. Other artists that have covered her music include Pentatonix, Reba McIntire, and Carrie Underwood. These and many other artists performed Dolly's most noteworthy hits to honor her at the CMAs this year.

In the world of humanitarian aid, Dolly has started the Imagination Library to give less fortunate children the opportunity to read books. The program mails one book a month to each child enrolled from the time of their birth until they are 5 years old. Her foundation has also assisted in HIV and AIDS awareness around the world.

Though Dolly Parton came a from humble beginning in Tennessee, she has gone on to win Grammys, publish books, write award-winning songs, meet Presidents, and become a worldwide icon for country music. Parton is one of the most decorated country music stars of all time, having been given a couple of honorary doctorates and 8 Grammys as well as 46 Grammy nominations. Through and through, Dolly Parton is the epitome of creativity, grace, and hard work, country music could not have picked a more deserving individual for this year's lifetime achievement award.

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