Dolly Parton, the iconic Queen of Country, is back with her latest album, Rockstar. This album features a star-studded lineup, bringing together A-list talents such as Elton John, Debbie Harry, and Sting. With over 30 tracks, including nine original songs, it promises to be a remarkable addition to Dolly’s legendary discography. Fans are buzzing with excitement, hoping for an opportunity to see Dolly perform live on stage once again.
Dolly’s Decision to Retire from Touring
Despite the excitement surrounding her new album, Dolly recently shared that she will no longer be hitting the road for tours. In an interview with Good Housekeeping to promote Rockstar and her new book, Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones, Dolly revealed the main reason behind this major decision.
“I don’t tour anymore. I’m involved in so many business ventures, and as my husband and I are getting older (he’s a little older than me), I feel the need to be with him,” Dolly explained with a laugh. It’s clear that at this stage in her life, Dolly values spending quality time with her husband above all else.
The Demands of Touring
Dolly further reflected on the immense commitment required for touring, emphasizing that it is a physically demanding task, regardless of age. “Touring requires unwavering commitment, and I dedicated myself to it throughout my entire life,” she remarked. Her dedication to touring has been evident throughout her career, but now, with so many other priorities, she is choosing to step back from the intense demands of live performances on the road.
Opportunities for Special Appearances
While Dolly may no longer embark on traditional tours, she assured her fans that they would still have the chance to see her perform. Dolly made it clear that she is open to performing her new music at special events, such as award shows or television specials. So, while fans might not be able to catch a full concert, they can still enjoy Dolly’s captivating presence on stage in these special formats.
Dolly’s Future Plans
Despite stepping away from touring, Dolly emphasized that she is not planning to retire from music or public life altogether. “Unless my husband or I fall ill and truly need each other, or if I face any health issues myself, I will never hang up my boots. Let’s hope those circumstances never arise,” she expressed. This heartwarming statement reassures fans that Dolly will continue to inspire and entertain, even if she’s no longer touring the world.
Dolly Parton’s decision to step back from touring may be a bittersweet one for fans, but it’s clear that her music, spirit, and influence will continue to shine in other forms. Her commitment to her personal life, business ventures, and artistic pursuits shows that Dolly is determined to maintain a balanced and fulfilling life moving forward.