Dolly Parton says she's 'officially a rock star' as rock album hits sales landmark

Music icon Dolly Parton says she is now “officially a rock star” after her rock album, the aptly entitled ‘Rockstar’, hit a major sales landmark.

Dolly Parton promised to record a rock album after she was nominated for the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame in early 2022.

The country legend initially turned down the nod explaining she did not “feel that I have earned (the) right” to be included on the Rock Hall’s list.

However, Dolly later changed her mind, saying: “It was always my belief that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame was for people in rock music. I have found out lately that it’s not necessarily that,” and she was duly inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Dolly still vowed to earn her rock stripes, and true to her word, she released the 30-track ‘Rockstar’ album last November, featuring guest spots from Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Richie Sambora, Ann Wilson, Rob Halford, Nikki Sixx, John 5, Steve Perry, John Fogerty, Steven Tyler, Debbie Harry, P!nk, Pat Benatar, Chris Stapleton, Miley Cyrus, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, Sting, Lizzo, Waddy Watchel and many more.

Four months on from its release, Dolly Parton’s ‘Rockstar’ has been RIAA Gold Certified in the United States with sales of over 500,000.

Commenting on the achievement, Dolly said: “When I set out to make my rock album, I always hoped it would be embraced by my fans as well as people who may not listen to my music.

“I am thrilled to receive this Gold record! Thank you to everyone who was a part of this project. I guess I can now officially say I am a rockstar!”

Dolly’s manager Danny Nozell adds: “I am so proud of Dolly’s hard work in making an incredible album. She set the standard for us all on this project with her work ethic. I also must send appreciation to my entire team for their laser focus on this achievement.

“We had the best partners in Scott Borchetta and the Big Machine Label Group, making this a true global effort. This is a history-making launch that none of us take for granted.”

‘Rockstar’ was also a Number 5 chart hit for Dolly in the UK, and it dented the Top 10 in various countries around the globe.

Take a look through alternative covers for Dolly Parton's 'Rockstar' album:

Now read:

Dolly Parton: Everything you need to know about the music icon

Dolly Parton reveals staggering 'Rockstar' album track-listing and huge list of guest artists

Dolly Parton's first rock album 'Rockstar' has been released

How to listen to Greatest Hits Radio:

You can listen on DAB digital radio, online at www.greatesthitsradio.co.uk, or via the Greatest Hits Radio app. You can also listen on your smart speaker by saying 'Play Greatest Hits Radio' on Alexa, or 'Play Greatest Hits Radio on tune-in' on Google Home.

• Dolly Parton