Dolly Parton Rocks the Bluegrass Chart: Her Second No. 1 in Over 50 Years

Dolly Parton’s unwavering work ethic and love for music continue to shine brightly with the release of her latest album, Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA: Family, Faith and Fables. The country music icon, who has been a staple in the industry for decades, has once again returned to the top of the Bluegrass Albums chart, marking her second-ever No. 1 on this ranking in over 50 years.

For many artists, the later stages of their career might be a time for reflection or slowing down. But Dolly Parton is no ordinary artist. Instead of stepping back, Dolly keeps pushing forward, creating new music that resonates with her fans while also staying true to her roots. This time, she’s back at the summit of the Bluegrass Albums chart, a genre that has long been close to her heart.

Dolly Parton & Family opens at No. 1 on the Billboard Bluegrass Albums chart, a testament to Parton’s enduring relevance and powerful connection to her musical heritage. This is her second time achieving this milestone, with her first No. 1 on the chart coming just two years ago with Run, Rose, Run. That album, which coincided with the release of a novel of the same name, proved to be a huge success, particularly in the Bluegrass genre.

What makes Dolly Parton & Family even more special is that it’s a collaborative project. True to the album’s title, Dolly brought together members of her own family to lend their voices to this heartfelt album. It’s an emotionally rich and intimate collection, with Dolly even incorporating recordings from some of her late relatives, making it a truly sentimental tribute to her family and her roots.

While Dolly’s latest album didn’t crack the Billboard 200 this time around—a list she often graces, having reached No. 3 just last year—it has nevertheless resonated deeply with fans of bluegrass and country music. Throughout her career, Dolly has never been one to rest on her laurels. She has continued to produce music that speaks to her personal journey, and this latest release is no exception.

Dolly Parton’s connection to the Bluegrass genre goes back many years, and Dolly Parton & Family marks a significant chapter in her illustrious career. With only five projects charting on the Bluegrass Albums chart, this new release proves her mastery of the genre, with earlier successes like Halos & Horns and The Acoustic Collection: 1999-2002 also earning top 10 positions. The only exception to her bluegrass success was Little Sparrow, which peaked at No. 12 back in 2002.

Dolly Parton’s tireless commitment to her craft and her legacy continues to inspire. Whether she’s topping the charts, collaborating with family, or honoring the memory of those she’s lost, Dolly remains one of the most beloved and influential figures in music. With Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA, she has once again proven that there’s no slowing down for this country legend.