The Recording Academy and the U.S. Department of State have announced that country music legend Dolly Parton is the 2024 recipient of the prestigious PEACE Through Music Award. This award honors American music industry professionals who have significantly contributed to global peace and understanding through their music and outreach efforts.
Celebrating Dolly Parton’s Impact
Dolly Parton will be celebrated at a special event tonight at the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles. Hosted by the Recording Academy and the Department of State, the event highlights Parton’s dedication to cross-cultural exchange, inclusion, and peace. Supported by Coke Studio and the Wasserman Foundation, the celebration also acknowledges the first cohort of the American Music Mentorship Program, which ran from October 15-25 in Los Angeles.
A Legacy of Global Philanthropy
Parton, known for her multi-genre musical impact, has captivated audiences worldwide for decades. Her charitable endeavors, such as the Imagination Library, have provided educational resources to children globally, from the Appalachian region to Australia. Additionally, her contributions to public health, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscore her dedication to serving communities beyond just her music.
Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, stated, “Over the course of her career, Dolly Parton has been committed to enriching communities across the globe, and it’s a privilege to celebrate her dedication to service with the PEACE Through Music Award today.”
Recognizing Excellence in American Music
Lee Satterfield, Acting Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, praised Parton’s impact, saying, “Dolly Parton represents the best of America – her excellence in music, her servant’s heart in giving back to those in need, and her unique ability to always bring people together.” She emphasized that Parton’s music and charitable work create bridges between cultures, promoting unity.
In her acceptance message, Dolly expressed gratitude, saying, “To say that I was honored to accept the PEACE Through Music Award from the Recording Academy and the U.S. State Department would be putting it mildly. I was very touched and moved by that. If I have been an inspiration in any way through some act of kindness or through some music that I have written, well, that makes me feel like I have done my job properly. Thanks again for such a great honor.”
The Award and Its Significance
The PEACE Through Music Award is a key part of the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, launched in 2023. It underscores the importance of music as a diplomatic tool to foster peace, cultural exchange, and educational opportunities worldwide. The initiative was inspired by the PEACE Through Music Diplomacy Act, passed into law in 2022, and continues to highlight music’s unique ability to unite people across borders.
How the Awardee Is Chosen
The selection process for the award involves nominations from U.S. embassies around the world. A committee, which includes members from the Recording Academy, the Department of State, music industry experts, and academic professionals, reviews the nominations. After this evaluation, the recommended honorees are approved by the Recording Academy’s CEO and then presented to the Assistant Secretary of State for final selection.
For more information on the Recording Academy’s global initiatives, visit their website. You can also explore the Department of State’s music diplomacy projects at state.gov/music-diplomacy.
