A new book titled ‘Unlikely Angel, The Songs of Dolly Parton’ (University of Illinois Press, 2020) by Lydia R. Hamessley is now available. The book describes the creative process of the iconic American country music and bluegrass singer-songwriter.
Dolly Parton is an iconic artist in American music. Although she is a famous singer, she sees herself as a songwriter first. Parton’s compositions like “I Will Always Love You” and “Jolene” have become American classics with an effect far beyond country music.
Lydia R. Hamessley analyzes Parton’s songwriting process, influences, and themes. Hamessley discloses how Parton’s childhood in the Smoky Mountains provided the musical language, rhythms, and memories of old-time music that characterize so many of her songs.
Buy Unlikely Angel, The Songs of Dolly Parton