Sad-Ass Songs

Here’s a little unknown fact about me- I LOVE a good documentary. Particularly but not limited to those about musicians, music, and songwriters.

Muscle Shoals is a favorite. Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, the Beatles, the Beegees, HBO’s the Defiant Ones (a must watch).

I also, especially in Covid, love a good walk. 

So what’s better than combining the two? Nothing!

My friend turned me on to this podcast called “Dolly Parton’s America” and I’m writing this to turn you onto it.  The first episode is called “Sad-Ass Songs” because you guessed it, Dolly wrote some Sad-Ass Songs! Particularly in her early years.

My parents are from abroad, so I didn’t grow up with the classic American music in my household. (I looked to my older brother and sister who are responsible for my love of Def Leppard, GnR, Black Crowes, Lenny Kravitz.)

Which means I didn’t know much of her stuff. I definitely had an appreciation for Dolly Parton but had no idea about her story and how popular she was/is.

This podcast talks specifically about just how great she is and it is fascinating. It’s easy to see why she is so beloved and made such an impact on so many people’s lives. 

If you love walking and listening to podcasts and/or learning the backstory of fascinating people, I can’t recommend this podcast enough.

I especially love listening to her talk about how she wrote some of her songs, the inspiration behind them and to realize just how prolific of a songwriter she is. Makes me want to step up my game!

Also, just how much of a pioneer she was in country music and how she was in on all the jokes about her. She’s a smart, generous, talented and gifted lady.

So run, don’t walk to listen to “Dolly Parton’s America” and let me know what you think. What’s your stance on Dolly?  Favorite song? Memories of listening to her?

As always, sending love and music,

Dana

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