Dolly Parton to Be Honored with $2.8 Million Statue at Tennessee State Capitol

Nashville, Tenn. — A monumental tribute to one of country music’s most beloved icons is set to rise on the grounds of the Tennessee State Capitol. Dolly Parton, the legendary singer, songwriter, and philanthropist, will soon be immortalized with a $2.8 million statue, ensuring that her extraordinary contributions to music, culture, and her home state will be forever etched in stone.

This tribute, announced earlier this week, will place the statue in a prominent location on the Capitol grounds, among other historical monuments dedicated to Tennessee’s most influential figures. The statue will not only serve as a recognition of Dolly’s illustrious six-decade career but also stand as a symbol of Tennessee’s values of resilience, generosity, and creativity — values that Dolly has embodied throughout her life.

“Dolly Parton isn’t just a singer — she’s Tennessee itself,” one supporter of the initiative remarked. “This statue will ensure that generations to come understand the woman who kept country music alive and true.”

At 79 years old, Dolly Parton’s legacy is already cemented in history. Born in the Smoky Mountains of Sevierville, Tennessee, Dolly rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most successful and influential figures in country music. With over 100 million records sold worldwide and more than 3,000 songs written, her career has shaped the sound of country music for decades. Her iconic songs, such as “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You,” have resonated with audiences worldwide, touching on themes of working-class life, love, faith, and resilience.

But Dolly’s influence extends far beyond the music industry. As a philanthropist, she has dedicated herself to making the world a better place, particularly in the realm of education. Her Imagination Library, founded in 1995, has donated over 270 million free books to children worldwide, fostering a love for reading and learning. Through her Dollywood Foundation, Dolly has also contributed millions of dollars to disaster relief, education, and health initiatives across Tennessee and beyond.

The decision to honor Dolly with a statue follows years of public calls for a permanent tribute at the Capitol. Supporters have long emphasized that Dolly’s impact on Tennessee — and the world — transcends the entertainment industry. She is seen not only as a country music icon but as a symbol of the state’s spirit, embodying the perseverance and generosity that Tennesseans hold dear.

The statue, which will be designed by an artist to be announced, will feature Dolly in her signature style, guitar in hand, representing her dual legacy as both a performer and a storyteller. This iconic image will stand as a permanent reminder of the woman who gave so much of herself to her music, her community, and her fans.

The unveiling of the statue is expected to take place in 2026, coinciding with Dolly Parton’s 80th birthday, a fitting milestone to mark her enduring legacy. Fans, many of whom have followed Dolly’s career for decades, are already celebrating the news. “It’s not just about Dolly,” said a Nashville resident. “It’s about the people she came from, the hills she sang about, and the way she gave Tennessee a voice on the world stage.”

As the statue takes shape on the Capitol grounds, it will not only serve as a tribute to Dolly Parton’s life but also as a beacon of pride for the state of Tennessee. It will stand tall as a reminder that Dolly’s story is also the story of Tennessee: one of hardship, hope, and a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.