Dolly Parton awarded Guinness World Records icon status

Dolly Parton has been awarded the title of a Guinness World Records icon in recognition of her 11 record-breaking achievements.

The 79-year-old country singer was presented with the honour at her Nashville studio as part of Guinness World Records’ 70th anniversary celebrations.

Her titles include the most consecutive decades with top 10 albums on the Billboard country chart, the most Grammy nominations for a female country artist, and the most studio albums released by a female country singer.

Having begun her recording career in 1967, the Tennessee native is the first country artist to be nominated for an EGOT – an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony.

“Dolly is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated writers and performers in the history of country music… She truly is a living legend, and it’s an honour to bestow GWR Icon status upon her,” said Craig Glenday, Guinness World Records' editor-in-chief.

Past recipients of the icon title include Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Paul McCartney, Drake and Elton John.

Larger-than-life living legend @DollyParton has today been named a Guinness World Records ICON 🎵🏅

Dolly’s timeless tunes have captivated generations for decades, earning her 11 Guinness World Records titles.https://t.co/adegeX53Gc

— Guinness World Records (@GWR) August 5, 2025

Parton is also known for her philanthropic work, including her Imagination Library book programme.

She is co-owner of Dollywood theme park and made her acting debut in the 1980 comedy 9 To 5.

Her latest album Rockstar was released in 2023.

Following the death of her husband Carl Dean earlier this year, she said plans to write more music are currently on hold.

Though retired from touring, she is scheduled to return to the stage in December 2025 for a six-night Las Vegas residency at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

It will be her first live performance in the city in more than 30 years.