From 'dirt poor' to philanthropic superstar - the life of

Key Takeaways

• Iconic country musician Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, her family announced on her social media
• "Sadness lies with us, not with Dolly," Parton's nephew Brian Seaver said in a video announcement
• In a seven-decade career, Parton won 10 Grammy awards, sold more than 100 million records worldwide, and wrote in excess of 3,000 songs
• Parton took her writing seriously, and considered herself a songwriter over everything else
• "It's my way of expressing myself," she said

Iconic country musician Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, her family announced on her social media.

"Sadness lies with us, not with Dolly," Parton's nephew Brian Seaver said in a video announcement.

In a seven-decade career, Parton won 10 Grammy awards, sold more than 100 million records worldwide, and wrote in excess of 3,000 songs.

Parton took her writing seriously, and considered herself a songwriter over everything else. "It's my way of expressing myself," she said. "It's my therapy."

She was also a savvy businesswoman who wasn't afraid to make tough decisions. Armed with a quick wit and southern charm, she took control of her show business career that spanned more than 60 years.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is From 'dirt poor' to philanthropic supers?

Iconic country musician Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, the singer's team announced on social media.