Dolly Parton, the legendary country singer, has often been hailed as a "magic man" for her incredible talent and mesmerizing stage presence. With her powerful voice and charismatic personality, she has captivated audiences around the world. From a young age, Dolly Parton showcased her musical abilities and passion for performing. Born and raised in a small town in Tennessee, she began singing and playing various instruments at a young age. Her talent quickly caught the attention of industry professionals, and she soon found herself signing record deals and releasing successful albums. One of the things that sets Dolly Parton apart from other artists is her ability to connect with her audience.
Hear Dolly Parton Scream for Vengeance With Judas Priest’s Rob Halford
In 1980, Dolly Parton was ruling the pop and country charts with “9 to 5” while Judas Priest were “Breaking the Law” and the members of Mötley Crüe weren’t even wearing leather. At that point in time, none of those artists likely ever thought they’d cross paths. Now, Parton has teamed with Priest screamer Rob Halford and Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx and guitarist John 5 on a new song, “Bygones,” one of two new tracks Parton released from her upcoming Rockstar album, out Nov. 17.
Over crunchy guitars, Parton asks for forgiveness and Halford sings about how hurt he feels. Then it picks up, and the two vocalists belt an anthemic chorus: “I’m sorry, so sorry/How long must you punish me?/Why can’t we just move on, let bygones be bygones?” The song builds and builds and reaches an ending that’s predictable (at least for metalheads, since it starts with a guitar solo.)
“‘Bygones’ is an original song of mine featuring Rob Halford from Judas Priest with Nikki Sixx and John 5,” Parton said in a statement. “It is one of my very favorites on the whole album. The song fits with so many couples and coupling my voice with Rob, one of my all-time favorites, made it even more special.”
The other original song is a cover of Heart‘s “Magic Man” (subtitled the “Carl Version”) that finds Parton trading verses with Heart’s Ann Wilson. The country icon’s brittle voice and expressiveness adds new depth and drama to the titular cult leader’s level of enchantment. Howard Leese, who played in Heart from 1975 to 1998 and now plays guitar in Bad Company and with Paul Rodgers’ solo band, recorded the solo for the track.
LISTEN! Dolly Parton releases duets with Heart’s Ann Wilson, Judas Priest’s Rob Halford
At 77, Dolly Parton is singing her heart out and her face off on two new songs from her forthcoming debut rock album.
On Friday, the country music superstar gave fans another sneak peek at the star-studded album, releasing collaborations with Judas Priest‘s Rob Halford and Heart‘s Ann Wilson. Both tracks will be featured on “Rockstar,” due out Nov. 17.
Following last month’s debut of the album’s first single, “World on Fire,” comes a remake of Heart’s 1975 classic “Magic Man,” featuring original group member Wilson. Parton added new elements to the song to transform it into a tribute to Carl Thomas Dean, her husband of 57 years.
Former Heart musician Howard Leese, who left the sibling-fronted band in 1998, is featured as a special guest guitarist on the song.
“I’ve always wanted a reason to sing ‘Magic Man’ by Heart and it was one of my first choices for the album,” Parton said with the release. “I was so happy that Ann Wilson agreed to sing it with me. Nobody can out sing Ann, but I gave it my darndest, and we added a few lines that were not in the original. We wanted to have a few things that made it seem like ours … I think it’s magic!”
Parton also released the original track “Bygones,” featuring Judas Priest frontman Rob Halford, whom she met when they were both inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame last year. The song, which she said was one of her favorites “on the whole album,” also features Mötley Crüe‘s Nikki Sixx and John 5.
“‘Bygones’ is an original song [that] fits with so many couples, and coupling my voice with Rob, one of my all-time favorites, made it even more special,” she shared.
With a whopping 30 tracks, “Rockstar” boasts superstar collaborations on new versions of popular songs — many with the artists who originally made them hits. Lizzo, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Sting, Elton John, P!nk, Brandi Carlile and Parton’s famous goddaughter Miley Cyrus are among the album’s buzzy lineup.
Rockstar
When the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame extended an invitation to Dolly Parton in early 2022, the preternaturally unshy megastar demurred. While Parton knows she’s forever changed the country music genre with her historic career, she admitted that she didn’t feel it was appropriate for her to accept one of the biggest honors in rock music, as she’d never made rock music of her own. With a little convincing, Parton eventually accepted the honor—but she wanted to put out an actual rock ’n’ roll album to prove her bona fides and make her enshrinement feel more legit. With Rockstar she does just that, enlisting the help of some of the genre’s biggest artists for creative reimaginings of classics. Guests include Elton John, Ann Wilson, Stevie Nicks, Lizzo, Paul McCartney, and many more—proof that Parton’s Rolodex alone justified her Hall induction. John, a true rock star if there ever was one, tells Apple Music he had a remarkable time joining Parton on “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” an updated version of the song John originally made famous on his 1974 album Caribou and which later grew more popular as a duet with the late George Michael. “She's always led by example,” John tells Apple Music of Parton. “I duet with her, and it's the first time I've really ever sang with her. It was just the most incredible experience. So I think she's quite a remarkable woman. She's in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, thank god.” Parton tackles a number of eras and styles of rock music—and hosts a number of legendary guests—across Rockstar’s ambitious 30 tracks. Among the other luminaries are none other than Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr (“Let It Be”), Stevie Nicks (“What Has Rock and Roll Ever Done for You,” a previously unreleased cut from Nicks’ 1985 solo album Rock a Little), Heart’s Ann Wilson (“Magic Man”), and former Journey singer Steve Perry (“Open Arms”). Miley Cyrus and Chris Stapleton are also on hand to represent the current class of stars with Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball” and a version of Bob Seger’s “Night Moves,” respectively. Though the Rock Hall induction is certainly a prominent new feather in Parton’s cap, she tells Apple Music’s Kelleigh Bannen that she hopes her legacy extends beyond her musical accomplishments to include the philanthropic efforts she’s spent so much of her life pursuing. “I do hope, more than anything, that I've been an inspiration, that I can be an inspiration for all the days that I'm living and even long after I'm gone, that I can leave something behind, maybe something I've said or something I've done that might make some difference, maybe sometimes big difference,” she says. “And just to say, ‘Well, if she did it, I can do it. She was just a poor girl from the mountains.’”
November 17, 2023 30 Songs, 2 hours, 21 minutes ℗ 2023 Butterfly Records, LLC under exclusive license to Big Machine Label Group, LLC
Also available in the iTunes StoreOne of the things that sets Dolly Parton apart from other artists is her ability to connect with her audience. Whether she is singing a heartfelt ballad or a lively country tune, she has a way of making every song feel personal and relatable. Her soulful performances often leave viewers feeling moved and inspired.
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Dolly Parton's magic also lies in her songwriting abilities. Many of her songs tell stories of love, heartbreak, and the challenges of everyday life. Her lyrics often resonate with listeners, who find solace and comfort in her music. Through her words and melodies, she creates a magical experience that transports listeners to a different time and place. Beyond her music, Dolly Parton's enchanting personality has endeared her to fans across generations. Known for her wit, humor, and down-to-earth nature, she has become a beloved figure in popular culture. Her larger-than-life persona and colorful fashion choices have made her an icon in the entertainment industry. In addition to her musical talents, Dolly Parton has also used her fame and fortune for philanthropic endeavors. Through her Dollywood Foundation, she has helped improve literacy rates among children and supported communities affected by natural disasters. Her generosity and dedication to making the world a better place have further enhanced her reputation as a magical and inspirational figure. In conclusion, Dolly Parton truly embodies the qualities of a "magic man" in the world of entertainment. Her immense talent, captivating performances, and charismatic personality have made her a beloved icon. Through her music, she has brought joy and inspiration to millions of people. Dolly Parton will always be remembered as a magical figure who has left an indelible mark on the world of music and beyond..
Reviews for "The Power of Dolly Parton's Magic Man: How He Shaped Her Music"
1. - Sarah - 1 star
Honestly, I was disappointed with Dolly Parton's "Magic Man". I have been a fan of Dolly for years, but this album just didn't do it for me. The songs felt generic and lacked the depth and emotion I usually associate with Dolly's music. It felt like she was trying too hard to appeal to a younger audience and lost the authenticity that made her so special. I'll stick to her older albums for now.
2. - Mike - 2 stars
I've always loved Dolly Parton's music, but "Magic Man" fell flat for me. The production felt over-polished and the catchy hooks seemed forced. It's clear that Dolly is trying to stay relevant in today's music industry, but this album didn't showcase her unique talent and songwriting skills. I miss the rawness and vulnerability of her earlier work, and I hope she returns to her roots on her next album.
3. - Emily - 2 stars
I hate to say it, but "Magic Man" just didn't do it for me. The songs felt too commercial and lacked the depth and storytelling that Dolly Parton is known for. It felt like she was trying to chase trends instead of staying true to her own style. I was hoping for more heartfelt ballads and soulful country tunes, but this album felt more like generic pop music. Hopefully, Dolly will go back to her roots and deliver something more authentic in the future.
4. - Jake - 1 star
I've always admired Dolly Parton's talent, but "Magic Man" was a huge disappointment. The album lacked the substance and originality that I expect from her. The songs were forgettable and the production felt like a watered-down version of what she's capable of. It was a missed opportunity to showcase her incredible voice and songwriting skills. I hope that her next album will be more memorable and true to her unique artistry.
5. - Megan - 2 stars
I have been a longtime fan of Dolly Parton, but "Magic Man" left much to be desired. The album lacked the soul and authenticity that I have come to expect from Dolly's music. The songs felt rushed and lacked the depth that she is known for. It's clear that she was trying to appeal to a younger audience, but in doing so, she lost the charm and timeless quality that made her so special. I hope that she will return to her roots and deliver something more genuine in the future.