Dolly was born on January 19, 1946, in Locust Ridge, Tennessee, near the Great Smoky Mountains. Growing up in a large family with limited financial means, music became a beacon of joy for the Partons. Dolly’s mother sang and played the guitar, and her early performances in church ignited her love for music.
At a young age, Dolly received her own guitar from her uncle and started writing her own songs. By age 10, she was performing on local television and radio stations in Knoxville, Tennessee. At just 13 years old, she made her debut on the national country radio station, Grand Ole Opry. Dolly’s talent and passion were evident, and she was well on her way to success.