After more than 50 years in the music industry, Dolly Parton has finally embraced her rock star persona. The beloved country legend is set to release her much-anticipated rock album, “Rockstar,” featuring collaborations with some of the biggest names in music history.
Dolly has just released the newest single from the album, a cover of The Beatles’ classic “Let it Be.” This cover stands out as it features the two surviving Beatles, Sirs Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. Few artists have the influence to bring together such legendary musicians, but Dolly Parton has made it happen.
While Paul and Ringo have occasionally collaborated over the years, having them both on this track is a significant achievement. Adding to the star power, the track also includes Peter Frampton on guitar and Mick Fleetwood on drums, creating an all-star lineup.
The spiritual, gospel-influenced track is a perfect match for the 77-year-old country superstar. Dolly’s heartfelt performance on the song has already resonated with listeners:
“I got goosebumps with the first few words… by halfway through I was in tears!” one YouTube comment reads. “Thank you, Dolly, Paul, Ringo, and everyone involved in this incredible recording!”
“Great rendition of an iconic song by the icons themselves! A spirited energetic rendition. Thanks to all!!”
“No words… just tears…. amazing… so much gratitude to these amazing icons for bringing this inspirational piece back to a new generation,” another wrote, adding that “Let it Be” “is what this world needs more than ever.”
“Let it Be,” released in 1970, has remained one of the most beloved and inspiring songs in The Beatles’ catalog. Though credited to Lennon-McCartney, it was written by Paul McCartney after a dream about his mother, Mary Patricia McCartney, who died when he was 14. Recorded during the band’s legendary but tumultuous “Get Back” sessions, it was the Beatles’ last single before their breakup in 1970 and provided the name of their final album, giving the song a bittersweet association with the band’s farewell.
Dolly Parton’s “Rockstar” is set to be released on November 17. Parton first hinted at the idea of a rock album last year when she initially declined her nomination to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, stating she had not “earned the right” to be inducted yet because she had not recorded a rock & roll album.
“I do hope that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame will understand and be willing to consider me again – if I’m ever worthy,” she wrote. “This has… inspired me to put out a hopefully great rock ‘n’ roll album at some point in the future, which I have always wanted to do!” she added, mentioning her husband’s love for rock & roll.
Despite her initial hesitation, Parton stayed on the ballot and was ultimately inducted into the Rock Hall. Staying true to her word, she began working on her rock album, officially announcing “Rockstar” last November.
“Rockstar” will feature several new songs written by Dolly, but it primarily consists of covers of classic rock songs, often with the original artists collaborating. The track listing includes “Every Breath You Take” featuring Sting, “Baby, I Love Your Way” with Peter Frampton, “Heart of Glass” with Debbie Harry, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” with Elton John, and “Free Bird” with Lynyrd Skynyrd.
In addition to “Let It Be,” Dolly has released two singles from the album: an original song titled “World on Fire” and a cover of Queen’s “We Are the Champions”/”We Will Rock You,” which also promotes the 2024 Paris Olympics. She has also released two more tracks, a new song called “Bygones” and a cover of Heart’s “Magic Man” featuring Ann Wilson.
What a fantastic rendition of The Beatles’ classic “Let It Be” — it’s incredible to see Dolly teaming up with Paul and Ringo!
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