The New Oldies: #4 2024 Album of the Year: Dolly Parton – Rockstar

Something seems to be missing these days. It seems that record companies, radio stations, and streaming services are pushing some the great established musicians to the background. As a result these veteran artists are not getting the attention they deserve. Enter the Top 10 Album Countdown: The New Oldies. The main point is simple – to make this list you must have at least 20 years of producing established music. The album by the artist must have been released between November 1st, 2023 and October 31st, 2024

#4 Dolly Parton – Rockstar

Back in 2022, country music legend Dolly Parton was nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Originally Parton declined being nominated as her roots were in country music and not Rock music. In reality the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame really is more of a contemporary music Hall of Fame and the Hall decided to keep her on the ballot. The end result was Parton was inducted into the Hall of Fame, but Parton decided to live up to the Hall’s name and committed to doing a Rock album. As a result, Rockstar was born.

To turn Rockstar into a reality, Parton decided to reach out to some legendary names from Rock and contemporary music. For the most part it’s a collection of covers (with a few unique spins), but the album also brings Parton’s unique style to it.

What I found amazing is how Parton brought new life to some tracks that frankly were overplayed out. The Police’s Every Breath You Take is a track I could live without, but Dolly’s collaboration with Sting is amazing. A female version of The Rolling Stones’ I Can’t Get No Satisfaction is amazing. Dolly even pulls off Heart of Glass with Deborah Harry. There is the unlikely duet with Judas’ Priest’s Rob Halford on Bygones which is amazing. Finally, Dolly even manages to bring the duo living Beatles together with her for Let It Be. There are 30 tracks and there is something for everybody.

This is true a classic compilation of legendary tracks and legendary artists. Definitely one of the highlights of 2024!