Dolly Parton & Family To Release New Album & Docuseries

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Dolly Parton and Owepar Entertainment are releasing a new album featuring an exploration of her rich family heritage, Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith & Fables. The project releases on Nov. 15.

Smoky Mountain DNA will shine a spotlight on the enduring legacy of two families—Dolly’s paternal Parton family and her mother’s family, the Owens. The project traces their origins from the United Kingdom in the 1600s to their home today in the Great Smoky Mountains of east Tennessee. Produced by Richie Owens, Dolly’s cousin, the album features songs performed by various members of Dolly’s immediate and extended family, spanning generations. Some tracks include the voices of beloved family members who have passed, alongside contemporary contributions from today’s generation.

“I cannot believe that it has been 60 years this month since I graduated from Sevier County High School and moved to Nashville to pursue my dreams,” recalls Dolly. “My Uncle Bill Owens was by my side for many years helping me develop my music. I owe so much to him and all the family members past and present who have inspired me along this journey. I am honored to spotlight our families’ musical legacy that is my Smoky Mountain DNA.”

A pre-order will launch June 21 in tandem with the set’s first two instant-grat tracks and the reveal of the full track list. The project will be available on vinyl and CD and via digital download and streaming.

A companion four-part docuseries is also in production and will offer an intimate look at the family’s historical journey from the UK to present-day east Tennessee, enriched by interviews with numerous family members. A particular focus is given to the Reverend Jake Owens, Dolly’s grandfather, who instilled in her and her relatives a profound respect for faith, a deep love of music and storytelling and strong enduring family values.

The docuseries centers around concert performances filmed at Knoxville’s historic Bijou Theater, featuring Dolly and family from the record. The songs are interwoven with narratives about the two families and their individual members, offering viewers a unique and personal glimpse into the roots of the Parton and Owens families.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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