Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn are two of the most iconic and influential country singers of all time. They have been friends for over five decades and have often called each other sisters. But are they actually related by blood or just by music? Here’s what we know.
The Beginning of a Friendship
Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn met in the 1960s, when they were both young and aspiring artists in Nashville. They appeared on two of the biggest syndicated country music shows at the time: The Wilburn Brothers Show and The Porter Wagoner Show. They bonded over their shared passion for music, their struggles in a male-dominated industry, and their humble backgrounds.
According to Dolly Parton, who wrote the foreword for Loretta Lynn’s 2020 book Me & Patsy Kickin’ Up Dust, they relied on each other for support and encouragement. “I think we could both smile with each other and say, ‘Hey, girl, we’re doin’ all right, ain’t we’?! She also said that she was “very proud” of them for “being able to withstand all that we did and just stand up there with the best of them.”
The Evolution of a Sisterhood
Over the years, Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn remained close friends and collaborators. They recorded several songs together, such as “Silver Threads and Golden Needles” and “Put It Off Until Tomorrow”. They also formed a supergroup with Tammy Wynette in 1993, called Honky Tonk Angels, and released an album of the same name.
They also celebrated each other’s achievements and milestones, such as Dolly Parton’s 50 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Loretta Lynn wrote on Twitter in 2019: “I love her music and I will always love her.” They also shared posts of each other on social media, reminiscing about their memories and expressing their admiration.
When Loretta Lynn passed away peacefully at her home on October 4, 2022, Dolly Parton led one of the most heartfelt tributes to her friend. She posted a statement on Instagram, in which she called her “my sister, friend Loretta”. She wrote: “We’ve been like sisters all the years we’ve been in Nashville and she was a wonderful human being, wonderful talent, had millions of fans and I was one of them. I miss her dearly as we all will.”
The Answer to the Question
So, is Dolly Parton related to Loretta Lynn? The answer is no, they are not biologically related. Loretta Lynn has a sister who is also a country singer, Crystal Gayle. Dolly Parton has 11 siblings, none of whom are famous singers.
However, they are related by music, by friendship, and by sisterhood. They have shared a bond that transcends blood ties and lasts beyond death. They have inspired millions of people with their songs, their stories, and their spirit. They are sisters in every sense of the word.
