Story by Erin Alexander / Contributing Writer
Dolly Parton is known nationwide for that classic country sound. The icon released her first album, “Hello I’m Dolly,” 50 years ago. Fast-forward half a century, and she’s still producing new music for her fans. Except these fans are a bit younger than Parton’s general audience.
Parton’s first children’s album, “I Believe in You,” includes old-time classics that everyone knows and loves, along with a few new songs that seem to fit well with the child audience. The project also features a read-along of the tale “Coat of Many Colors.”
Parton’s timeless songs usually tell a story, and this new album continues down the same path. ”You Gotta Be,” one of the album’s featured songs, actually derives from Parton’s first radio appearance. The fourth track, “I Am a Rainbow,” is suited just for her young audience. With a message of teaching children the importance of having a colorful personality and positive outlook on life, it well-deserves a spot on the album.
“Making Fun Ain’t Funny,” another track which belongs to the album, focuses on a major issue for children: bullying. The track speculates the importance of not being a bully to other people, and the song is accompanied by backup vocals from children.
Songs like “I Am A Rainbow” and “Making Fun Ain’t Funny” perfectly target Parton’s children audience. Nevertheless, Parton’s humble and caring personality continue to shine in “I Believe in You.”
What makes this album even better is the fact that all proceeds from sales will go directly to Parton’s charity, Imagination Library. Imagination Library sends books to registered children in order to keep them learning by reading.
Growing up in a poor family, Parton understands the importance of being grateful for what you have and never taking anything for granted.
Parton has shown many times how grateful she was to have grown up the way she did, despite not having much. However, it was not about how much she had, but rather who she had: a loving family and parents who taught her to be humble no matter where she ended up in life. This new album for children reinforces Parton’s personal philosophies of humility and generosity.
The new children’s album has been released digitally on September 29 and the physical copy will be in stores on October 13.
To contact Lifestyles Editor Tayhlor Stephenson, email lifestyles@mtsusidelines.com.
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