Dolly Parton has long had to explain her iconic look and fashion choices, and she keeps doing so with a self-assured grace, despite the raised eyebrows aimed her way.
Ahead of the November release of Parton’s album “Rockstar” and her book “Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones,” released this month, the “Jolene” singer sat down with the Guardian. In the interview, Parton revealed that, growing up, she was punished verbally and physically for her risque flair.
The acclaimed country star has long been candid about how the “town tramp” inspired her look.
“She was flamboyant. She had bright red lipstick, long red fingernails,” Parton told the Guardian. “She had high-heeled shoes, little floating plastic goldfish in the heels of them, short skirts, low-cut tops, and I just thought she was beautiful.”
Parton said people around town would describe the woman as “nothing but trash,” but Parton would stare at her with stars in her eyes.
“Well, that’s what I’m gonna be when I grow up,” she’d quip.
Per the Guardian, Parton’s grandfather, a preacher, punished her for her style sensibilities, but it didn’t dissuade her.
“I was willing to pay for it,” Parton continued. “I’m very sensitive, I didn’t like being disciplined — it hurt my feelings so bad to be scolded or whipped or whatever. But sometimes there’s just that part of you that’s willing, if you want something bad enough, to go for it.”
Parton’s 49th album, “ Rockstar,” dropping Nov. 17, features “Let It Be,” which she sings with Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. Mick Fleetwood is on the drums, and Peter Frampton plays guitar.
“Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones,” which documents her life and career in gem-encrusted clothing and costumes, is out now.
