The Evolution Of Dolly Parton

Success!

Once Dolly recorded “Mule Skinner Blues,” the song hit No. 3 on the charts and she recorded “Joshua,” which was her first No. 1 single. Over the next two years, her songs continued to top the charts as a solo artist as well as still having hit songs as duets with Wagoner. Her signature song “Coat of Many Colors” hit No. 4 in 1971. Other singles she recorded that had success included “Touch Your Woman,” “My Tennessee Mountain Home,” and Travelin’ Man.”

These songs were put out in 1972 and 1973. Later in 1973, Parton put out her biggest hit of the time “Jolene.” This song not only topped the country charts, but it charted in the UK as well.

Transitioning Into Pop

Dolly Parton started the transition from country to pop between 1976 to 1977. Parton started working with Sandy Gallin, who would be her personal manager for the next 25 years. The 1976 album All I Can Do was co-produced with Wagoner but was directed towards the more mainstream and pop crowd.

The first album she produced herself, New Harvest…First Gathering came out in 1977 and had covered hits on it such as “Higher and Higher.” Even though the album didn’t do well, Dolly didn’t stop. She put out Here You Come Again, which sold over a million copies while reaching the top of the country charts and No. 20 on the pop chart.