Dolly Parton Delivers an Unexpected Prince Tribute with ‘Purple Rain’ Cover
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Dolly Parton, the iconic country singer, has surprised fans with her latest album, “Rockstar,” where she ventures into the realm of rock & roll for the first time in her illustrious career. The album, released today, features a mix of original songs and surprising covers, showcasing a side of Parton that fans have never seen before.
One of the standout tracks on the album is Parton’s rendition of Prince and the Revolution’s classic, “Purple Rain.”
Straying from her country roots, Parton infuses the song with a gospel feel, utilizing a church organ and Hendrixy guitar riffing. Her distinctive Tennessee accent adds a unique touch to the iconic opening lines, making it a captivating experience. With a gospel choir backing her up, Parton’s version clocks in at just over eight minutes, delivering a powerful performance that pays homage to Prince’s original.
Parton doesn’t stop there; her cover of the Rolling Stones’ “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” takes a bold twist.
Subverting Keith Richards’ iconic riff into a simpler tune, she, along with Pink and Brandi Carlile, puts a fresh spin on Mick Jagger’s lyrics. The rhythm section provides a solid groove, creating a unique interpretation of this rock classic.
Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” also gets the Parton treatment, featuring a surprise appearance by Lizzo and her flute, Sasha Flute. The collaboration adds an extra layer of musicality to the song, with Parton even throwing in some ad-libbed rounds of “Stairway to Heaven.” The fusion of Parton’s country roots with Lizzo’s contemporary flair makes this cover a standout on the album.
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Closing the album in true rock & roll fashion, Parton takes on Lynyrd Skynyrd’s epic “Free Bird.”
Clocking in at an impressive 10 minutes and 45 seconds, Parton adds her own flair to the classic, complete with a lighter-in-the-air moment. The recording features the voice of the late Ronnie Van Zant and a guitar solo by the late Gary Rossington, paying homage to the original while adding Parton’s unique touch. https://drlauryn.com/
Dolly Parton’s “Rockstar” album is a testament to her versatility as an artist, showcasing her ability to seamlessly transition between genres. Fans old and new are in for a treat as they witness a legendary country singer explore the realms of rock & roll, delivering unexpected and unforgettable covers that will leave a lasting impression..
