Minnesota Is Saying Goodbye To A True Legend: Dolly Parton
We've spent the whole morning celebrating the life of Dolly Parton, who passed away yesterday after a brief battle with cancer. We've played songs from Dolly like "9 to 5," "When I Get Where I'm Going," "Islands in the Stream," and, of course, "Jolene" this morning on our show, and also shared tributes from all sorts of celebrities.
This one really got me from Brad Paisley, and when we played the song, it was hard not to tear up.
Dolly Parton Performances In Minnesota Over The Years
I never got the chance to see Dolly Parton in concert, but for those who have, it left a lasting memory. Tributes are pouring in on social media posts about when Dolly Parton was in Minnesota at the State Fair. Her last performance at the Minnesota State Fair was in 1993, and it was a sold-out show.
Here's a clip of her performing the song "Baby I'm Burning" at the State Fair in 1993 from WCCO's archives.
Dolly has had several shows at the Minnesota State Fair. She also performed in 1969, 1975, and 1978.
Target Center Pays Tribute to Dolly Parton
The Target Center paid tribute to Dolly Parton, sharing a photo of her from her 1990 show.
It's hard to find a photo of Dolly where she isn't smiling from ear to ear and spreading joy to everyone she meets. She famously said, "If you see somebody without a smile, give 'em yours!" She certainly practiced what she preached.
Minnesota State Fair Pays Tribute
The Minnesota State Fair shared a picture from 51 years ago when she performed in 1975.
Dolly Parton Brought Books To Minnesota Kids
Not only did she bring her music to Minnesota, but through her Imagination Library, she brought free books to kids in Minnesota. United Way in Central Minnesota shares that, through their partnership with Dolly's Imagination Library, they've sent out 1.7 million books to kids since 2005. There are nearly 7,000 kids enrolled, and they recently mailed 58,125 books in 2023 (the most recent numbers). That's impressive.
Minnesota And The Rest Of The World Loves You, Dolly
Thank you, Dolly Parton, for being a shining light in this world and influencing so many people across the world with your talent, kindness, wit, charm, and generosity. There will never be another Dolly Parton. We love you, Dolly.