Dolly Parton: "God, Music, and Food" Shape Her Life and Career

Country music legend Dolly Parton shares her deep-rooted values of faith, family, and cooking in a new cookbook and upcoming Broadway musical.

Dolly Parton, the iconic country music star, has always been known for her unwavering faith, close-knit family, and passion for food. These three elements have played a central role in shaping her life and career, as she recently shared in an interview with Allrecipes and announced her plans for an upcoming Broadway musical.

Growing up in a humble family in Tennessee, Dolly and her younger sister, Rachel Parton George, learned the importance of living by their core values. "God, music, and food were the three big things in our family," Dolly explained. "I think home tastes like Mama. I think you always link those childhood memories with certain childhood foods that you love and the people that prepare them for you."

Dolly Parton: "God, Music, and Food" Shape Her Life and Career

Dolly's love for cooking goes hand-in-hand with her musical talents. "It's just being creative, like writing a song," she said. "Some of my best songs I came up with while cooking my best food, and vice versa. The better I write, the better I cook."

Their upcoming cookbook, "Good Lookin' Cookin'," is a testament to the family's values and features heartwarming stories and recipes that have been passed down through generations. The book includes comforting dishes like Hot Wing Dip, Family Favorite Meatloaf, Slaw of Many Colors, Light My Fire Banana Foster, and Fried Chicken and Gravy.

Dolly Parton: "God, Music, and Food" Shape Her Life and Career

When asked which song of hers reminded her of their Hot Wing Dip, Dolly couldn't resist a playful response. "Oh, something spicy — like our Hot Wing Dip," Rachel said with a smile. "That woman was just hungry for my man. It’s not in the cookbook, but it’s in the song," Dolly quipped, referring to her hit "Jolene."

Beyond her love for cooking, Dolly has also made a significant impact in the entertainment industry. In June, she announced plans to bring "Hello, I'm Dolly" to Broadway, a musical that will feature new songs alongside her classic hits. The musical is expected to open in 2026 and will be inspired by Dolly's life experiences.

Dolly Parton: "God, Music, and Food" Shape Her Life and Career

Dolly's Broadway endeavor is not her first foray into the theater scene. A stage adaptation of her beloved film "9 to 5" premiered in 2009, and her Christmas special "Candles, Snow & Mistletoe" featured her song "With Bells On."

Throughout her remarkable career, Dolly Parton has achieved tremendous success, earning 52 Grammy nominations and 11 wins, making her the second-most nominated woman in Grammy history. Her contributions to country music and her philanthropic efforts, including a $1 million donation for coronavirus research, have cemented her status as a national treasure.

Dolly Parton: "God, Music, and Food" Shape Her Life and Career

Dolly's unwavering commitment to her faith, family, and music continues to inspire countless fans around the world. Her upcoming cookbook and Broadway musical promise to provide even more insights into the life and legacy of this beloved entertainer.