Dolly Parton's path from Nashville newcomer to Billboard's No. 1 country music artist of all time
Dolly Parton's career as an entertainer spanned roughly seven decades.During that time, the legendary country music star cemented herself as an icon not only in the music industry, but also as a movie star and a philanthropist.From getting her start on "The Porter Wagoner Show" in 1964 to multiple Academy Award nominations, Parton forged a path for herself in the industry and paved the way for female country singers who followed her.DOLLY PARTON’S SIX-DECADE LOVE STORY WITH CARL DEAN BEGAN AT A LAUNDROMATParton's career as an entertainer spanned roughly seven decades.(Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)Here are some of Parton's career highlights.Parton joined "The Porter Wagoner Show" in 1967.
(Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)Parton moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in May 1964, the day after graduating from high school, to pursue a career in country music.Three years later, she released her debut album, "Hello, I'm Dolly," in February 1967, which caught the attention of singer Porter Wagoner.He then invited Parton to join him on his TV show, "The Porter Wagoner Show," a few months later, in September 1967.Parton's time on the show provided her with national attention and established her as a recording artist.
Her duets with Wagoner, starting with "The Last Thing on My Mind," became major country hits.Their partnership also earned Parton her first Grammy nomination in 1970.In addition to her duets with Wagoner, she also released many of her well-known songs during this era, including "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," "My Tennessee Mountain Home," "Just Because I'm a Woman" and many more.After seven years on the show, Parton felt it was time to pursue a solo career, ultimately leaving the show in 1974.Parton left "The Porter Wagoner Show" in 1974 and had a successful solo career.
(Getty Images)Shortly after leaving the show, Parton released "Love Is Like a Butterfly," which quickly climbed to the top of the Billboard country charts.She continued releasing hit aft...