BIG MACHINE RECORDS
On Nov. 5, 2022, people everywhere watched with bated breath as country singer-songwriter Dolly Parton was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. After a speech expressing her gratitude, Parton sang her iconic 1973 song “Jolene.”
Despite her induction, Parton hadn’t actually released a rock album and felt the need to earn the honor. A year later, on Nov. 17, 2023, Dolly Parton released her 49th album “Rockstar.” The album contains a splendid mix of nine original songs and 21 covers of rock classics. Despite the genre shift, Parton’s soprano vocals stay true to her iconic slightly gritty tones and melodious vibrato.
The first and title track “Rockstar” is an original, with Parton’s slight vibrato pairing nicely with the funky guitar style. The powerful lyrics narrate the story of an ambitious individual who wants to become an extraordinary rockstar despite parental disapproval, inspiring listeners to not give up on their dreams. Despite having a simple melody, it does an excellent job of opening the album.
The next song, “World on Fire” has a different appeal, although just as powerful. It opens up with the repeated phrase, “Liar, liar the world’s on fire / Whatcha gonna do when it all burns down?” She continues to press the main point of the song by describing “Greedy politicians, present and past.” Parton has previously avoided political topics, so this blatant statement indicates a new era in her career.
“Every Breath You Take” featuring English artist Sting is the first cover on the album. It is pretty similar to the original by The Police, although the background music is pitched down. Parton’s piercing voice contrasts with Sting’s and produces a rich stacking effect. Near the end, Sting softly sings the song’s well-known lyrics while Parton layers her energetic vocals over it. The voices generally mesh well, but occasionally create an awkward dissonance.
“Magic Man” is another cover, the original being by American rock band Heart, and the vocals are magical. Parton’s voice sounds coarse in some sections, adding an edge that compliments the background music well. Her robust and emotive enunciations boldly pierce through, while her whispery vocals add pleasantness. The rest of the song is equally attention-grabbing, as Parton shows off her vocal range.
Parton includes several other covers of hit songs including a wonderful rendition of Prince’s “Purple Rain” and “Wrecking Ball,” which sounds pretty similar to the original by her goddaughter and singer-songwriter Miley Cyrus but show off Parton’s unique, energetic vocals. The transition from a soft piano and whispery voice to sudden drums and loud singing remains electrifying.
Parton also includes a cover of “We are the Champions / We Will Rock You,” merging two iconic songs by the band Queen. Though the transition between them feels abrupt, lowering the overall quality and cohesion of the album, Parton’s singing is uplifting and bright, overshadowing any noticeable awkwardness in the track. “We are the Champions” flows well and “We Will Rock You” ends with a lovely harmony between Parton and background vocals.
Near the end of the album is Parton’s original “I Dreamed about Elvis.” As the name suggests, this light-hearted and energetic original tune describes Parton’s dream encounter with American singer Elvis, and it’s a splendid ode to his legacy. Featured artist Ronnie McDowell’s imitation of Elvis blends excellently with Parton’s singing, and they have a bit of call-and-response with the lyrics “I wish you joy (I wish you joy)/And happiness (And happiness).” The voices start to merge and overlap, ending on a satisfying note.
Parton’s strong singing shines brightly throughout the listening experience, but leaves listeners wondering about the overall theme of the album because the tracks do not seem to be connected. Many classic rock songs are shoved into the album, making it seem a bit overstuffed. However, the album is chaotic in a fun way, and the listening experience is full of energy and jolliness, earning 4.5 out of five stars.
