Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton 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? Here’s the truth behind their sisterly bond.
How They Met
Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton 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 struggles and successes in a male-dominated industry, and supported each other as they rose to fame. As Parton wrote in the foreword for Lynn’s 2020 book Me & Patsy Kickin’ Up Dust, “I think we could both smile with each other and say, ‘Hey, girl, we’re doin’ all right, ain’t we’?!”
How They Collaborated
Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton have collaborated on several occasions throughout their careers. In 1971, they recorded a duet called “After the Fire Is Gone”, which won them a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group. In 1993, they formed a supergroup with another country legend, Tammy Wynette, and released an album called Honky Tonk Angels. The album featured songs written by each of them, as well as covers of classic country hits. The trio also performed together at the Grand Ole Opry and on television shows
How They Stayed Friends
Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton have remained close friends for over 50 years, despite their busy schedules and different lifestyles. They have celebrated each other’s achievements, comforted each other in hard times, and shared their personal stories and secrets. They have also paid tribute to each other on social media, expressing their love and admiration. When Lynn passed away on October 4, 2022, Parton posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, calling 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 Bottom Line
So, is Loretta Lynn related to Dolly Parton? 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 been like family to each other for decades, and have inspired generations of fans and artists with their songs and stories.
