NashvilleGab - ‘Smoky Mountain DNA’ by Dolly & 20 Family Members!

Country music legend Dolly Parton dives deep into her family history with a unique project titled “Dolly Parton: Smoky Mountain DNA,” marking her 50th album.

This ambitious project, a collaboration with Dolly’s Owepar Entertainment, goes beyond a typical music release.

Set for release on November 15, 2024, “Smoky Mountain DNA” is a multimedia experience that combines a family album with a companion documentary series.

The album features collaborations with over 20 Parton and Owens family members across multiple generations.

Let’s get into the details of the Album!

The Details about Family Album – A Special Project!

“Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith & Fables” will be released on Friday, November 15.

#DollyParton announced she has a brand new album coming out this fall, ‘Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA.’ Here’s a first listen to her new music at Dollywood. #countrymusic #breakingnews pic.twitter.com/t8duWHFgLt
— Parade Mag (@ParadeMagazine) May 24, 2024

This project is a collaboration with Dollywood and Dolly’s co-owned Owepar Entertainment.

The album might have up to 40 songs featuring Dolly’s maternal and paternal family. For generations, music has been a vital part of the Parton family’s life in the majestic Smoky Mountains, cherished and passed down like precious heirlooms.

Dolly wrote on her official website:

“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 honoured to spotlight our families’ musical legacy that is my Smoky Mountain DNA.”

Traditional Smoky Mountain music, a blend of British Isles folk melodies, Appalachian storytelling, and soulful harmonies, forms the core of this musical heritage.

Early influences came from traveling balladeers and local string bands, who wove tales of mountain life, faith, and hardship.

Researching Dolly’s family history might uncover notable musical relatives who helped shape this tradition, laying the foundation for her own musical journey.

“Smoky Mountain DNA” furthers this rich legacy by featuring a unique collaboration between Dolly and over 20 extended family members from different generations.

This innovative concept allows listeners to experience the evolution of Parton family music firsthand.

Her cousin, Richie Owens, is the producer, bringing a layer of familiarity and understanding to the creative process.

The album promises a captivating blend of genres. Traditional Smoky Mountain tunes passed down through generations will likely be alongside uplifting gospel hymns and heartfelt personal compositions.

Each song could tell stories of resilience, faith, and the joys and sorrows of mountain life.

Some songs might recount cherished family gatherings, while others could be tributes to beloved ancestors.

These personal narratives, woven into the music, will showcase the profound influence of family and heritage on Dolly Parton’s artistic identity.

Dolly’s niece, Jada Star, shared that the album includes songs from Dolly’s entire family history, with each family member contributing their voice.

“It is an album that documents her whole life. It has been a huge undertaking which involves the whole family. It is an album she has produced with more than 30 tracks with over 20 family members. She sings with us on every track,” said Jada, while talking to The Sun.

The album will feature up to 40 songs, spotlight the legacy of the singer’s paternal Parton family and her mother’s family, the Owens, by tracing the families’ journey from the UK in the 1600s to their home in East Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains.

Dolly Parton (Courtesy Photo) pic.twitter.com/sjrkvRG4uh
— Blanche Horst (@HobanGirl) May 24, 2024

She further said:

“The album covers songs written about her childhood, her mother and father, aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters, all the way to her nieces and nephews.“
She continued:
“We all get to share interpretations of her songs or write our own songs for it. It has been a huge crazy project.”

She also discussed her song “The Orchard,” which is from the album and explores the concept of a family tree, a fitting metaphor for the entire project.

Through “Smoky Mountain DNA,” Dolly Parton invites us to witness the genesis of her musical spirit.

The album promises to be a treasure trove of traditional melodies, heartfelt stories, and a testament to the enduring power of family legacy.

The Documentary Series – Roots and Branches

“Dolly Parton: Smoky Mountain DNA” extends beyond music with a captivating documentary series designed to illuminate the very roots of Dolly’s artistry.

This companion piece embarks on a historical journey, tracing the Parton and Owens families’ lineage back to their origins, culminating in their present-day home nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Viewers can expect the documentary series to delve into several key themes.

Family history takes center stage, with the narrative likely exploring the families’ migration patterns and the decision to settle in the Smoky Mountains.

Themes of faith, a cornerstone of Appalachian culture, will be explored through the lens of Reverend Jake Owens, Dolly’s grandfather.

His influence on the family’s values and storytelling traditions is sure to be a central focus.

The documentary will also delve into historical details. Early reports suggest the series will trace the families’ roots back to the United Kingdom, specifically focusing on their Welsh ancestry.

Unearthing interesting historical anecdotes or documents related to this migration will add depth and intrigue to the narrative.

A crucial aspect of the documentary is its exploration of how these historical threads are woven into the cultural tapestry of the Appalachian region.

Viewers will better understand the musical styles, storytelling techniques, and resilience that define the Smoky Mountains.

This knowledge will provide a richer context for Dolly’s music, highlighting how her family history and heritage resonate within her songs.

The series is further enriched by featuring concert performances filmed at Knoxville’s historic Bijou Theater.

These live renditions, featuring Dolly Parton alongside her family members, will become a powerful bridge between past and present.

Witnessing these shared performances may illuminate aspects of Dolly’s life and music that are shaped by her family background.

Perhaps a song takes on new meaning when viewed in the context of a shared family tradition, or a performance style can be traced back to an ancestor’s influence.

Ultimately, the documentary series “Smoky Mountain DNA” explores heritage, family, and the enduring power of place.

Dolly's Extended Family Members — **The Album Won’t Only Include Dolly’s Siblings but Also Her Extended Family Members!**

Release Details for Dolly’s New Album!

Pre-orders for “Dolly Parton: Smoky Mountain DNA” start on June 21st, including a full tracklist and two songs.

Available on vinyl, CD, digital download, and streaming services, this project offers a personal and multifaceted look at Dolly Parton’s artistic foundation and Smoky Mountain legacy.

The album features collaborations with over 20 family members and includes a companion documentary series exploring the Parton and Owens families’ history, tracing their roots from Wales to the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.

Legacy and Beyond

“Dolly Parton: Smoky Mountain DNA” is more than just music. This special project explores Dolly Parton’s family history through music and a documentary.

It shows the rich musical heritage of the Parton and Owens families, highlighting the foundation of Dolly’s artistry.

Dolly collaborates with her extended family in the album and includes traditional melodies.

This lets listeners experience the evolution of Parton family music firsthand. It helps us understand Dolly’s creative influences and celebrates the power of family tradition.

The project is not just for entertainment; it can also help preserve Appalachian culture and musical traditions.

“Smoky Mountain DNA” ensures that these regional sounds and storytelling techniques live on for future generations by showcasing them.

“Dolly Parton: Smoky Mountain DNA” reminds us of the profound influence of family and heritage on an artist’s life and music.

Dolly Parton’s New Album “Dolly Parton & Family”

Conclusion

“Dolly Parton: Smoky Mountain DNA” is an extraordinary and heartfelt celebration of family heritage, blending music and documentary in a unique, deeply personal way.
The album features beautifully diverse collaborations with over 20 talented family members, showcasing the rich, multi-generational tapestry of Parton family music.
The accompanying documentary series offers a deeply immersive and visually captivating journey through the Parton and Owens families’ history, tracing their roots from Wales to the stunning Great Smoky Mountains.
By combining traditional melodies with contemporary compositions, the project elegantly highlights the profound influence of Appalachian culture and family values on Dolly’s artistry.
The concert performances at Knoxville’s historic Bijou Theater add an authentic, enchanting touch, bridging the past and present with powerful live renditions.
“Smoky Mountain DNA” entertains and serves as an invaluable resource for preserving Appalachian culture and musical traditions for future generations.
Dolly’s niece, Jada Star, contributes the insightful and evocative song “The Orchard,” adding depth and emotional resonance to the project’s themes of family and heritage.