Dolly Parton brings a previously unreleased 1988 track, “A Rose Won’t Fix It,” back to life in a new duet with her niece Heidi. Check it out!
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Parton is set to include several family members—her siblings and her late mother—on an upcoming album that chronicles her extended family’s journey to Tennessee.
Dolly Parton’s newest project is a heartfelt family collaboration. The 78-year-old country icon will release an extensive album in November that explores her family’s migration from the U.K. to Tennessee, featuring contributions from numerous relatives, including siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles.
On August 23, Parton dropped the track “A Rose Won’t Fix It,” showcasing her niece Heidi Parton on lead vocals, with Dolly providing background harmonies. This song is the second single from Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith & Fables, following the release of the title track. “Rose” is an upbeat tune about how apologies can’t be fixed with flowers and was originally recorded for Parton’s 1988 album Hungry Again, but didn’t make it to the final release.
Heidi Parton expressed her excitement on Instagram, saying, “I’m so honored to be a part of this incredible family project. Having the song I contributed to as a single release is one of the greatest moments of my life! Our family is incredibly talented, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience that talent. I truly hope you love this song as much as I do.”
The forthcoming album, spanning 37 tracks, will showcase the stories of two families: the Partons from her father’s side and the Owens family from her mother’s side.
Dolly’s late mother, Avie Lee Parton, who passed away in 2003, is featured on several tracks, along with other deceased relatives such as her uncle Bill Owens and aunt Estelle Owens Watson, as well as her brothers Floyd and Randy.
Niece Jada Star, known for her appearance on the second season of ABC’s Claim to Fame, is featured on the track “The Orchard,” while sisters Cassie, Stella, Rachel, and Freida also have their moments on the album.
Produced by Parton’s cousin Richie Owens, the album will be supported by a four-part docuseries currently in production, which will include concert performances filmed at Knoxville’s Bijou Theater.
According to a press release, the album’s title track, “Smoky Mountain DNA,” serves as an “overarching theme that honors the musical roots and heritage of her family.” The album is scheduled for release on November 15.
Parton’s latest release, Rockstar, came out in November 2023 and marked her first full-length venture into the rock genre.