“[An] absorbing study of an ultra-talented country music icon.” MOJO

A definitive Dolly Parton biography tracing her East Tennessee childhood, Nashville breakthrough, country-pop superstardom, songwriting legacy, and business empire.

Smart Blonde tells the remarkable story of Dolly Parton’s rise from a poor East Tennessee childhood to superstardom in the male-dominated world of 1960s Nashville. With charm, determination, and unparalleled talent, Parton built not only a musical legacy but a multifaceted business empire.

Miller crafts a deeply researched and entertaining portrait, full of sparkle and quick humour, of a strong woman who has always steered her own course. Through rare interviews with those closest to Parton – including family members, musicians, and longtime collaborators – he offers intimate glimpses into her famously private world, including her enduring marriage to Carl Dean until his death in 2025 and lifelong friendship with Judy Ogle.

With a foreword by music journalist, David Sinclair.