Dolly Parton Reveals New Album & Docuseries 'Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith & Fables'

Less than a year after releasing her tribute to rock and roll music, Rockstar, Dolly Parton has announced her imminent return to her country roots.

Parton will release her new album, Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith & Fables, on Friday, 15 November. The record will be released in partnership with Dollywood and the singer’s co-owned Owepar Entertainment.

The album will be produced by Parton’s cousin, Richie Owens, and is set to feature numerous members of Parton’s family. As for the album’s subject matter, Smoky Mountain DNA will trace the Jolene singer’s family history from the UK in the 1600s to their eventual home in the Great Smoky Mountains, East Tennessee.

In addition to the album announcement, Parton has revealed that an accompanying docuseries for the album is currently in production.

Parton said of the experience recording Smoky Mountain DNA (via her website): “I cannot believe that it has been 60 years this month since I graduated from Sevier County High School and moved to Nashville to pursue my dreams.

“My Uncle Bill Owens was by my side for many years, helping me develop my music. I owe so much to him and all the family members, past and present, who have inspired me along this journey. I am honoured to spotlight our families’ musical legacy that is my Smoky Mountain DNA.”

Pre-orders for Parton’s new album will open on Friday, 21 June. The singer will also release two new songs, reveal the entire tracklist, and offer the release on vinyl, CD, digital downloads, and streaming services.

Parton celebrated her 78th birthday earlier this year by releasing a deluxe edition of her latest album, Rockstar.

The additional tracks include a Billy Joel cover (The Entertainer), Eurythmics’ Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This), Pat Benatar’s Hit Me With Your Best Shot, Simon & Garfunkel’s Bridge Over Troubled Water and Eddie Money’s Two Tickets To Paradise.

Last year, The Music locked in a cover story interview with Dolly Parton about all things Rockstar. You can read that here.