The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum will shine a spotlight on one of country music’s most iconic figures with the launch of Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker. This special exhibition opens May 20, 2025, and will run through September 2026, offering an intimate look at key moments in Dolly Parton’s more than six-decade career.
Focusing on pivotal points where Parton overcame doubt and adversity, the exhibit will highlight the resilience, creativity, and charisma that helped her become a beloved global icon.
“Being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame was one of the greatest moments of my life, and being able to have a personal exhibit for the fans that put me there is a very big deal to me,” said Parton. “This seeker is very proud and honored, and I hope you enjoy my journey. I will always love you.”
A Lifetime of Achievement
Parton’s career is marked by extraordinary accomplishments across music, film, television, business, and philanthropy. Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, said:
“After accomplishing enough for three lifetimes, Dolly Parton continues to astound and amaze us with her boundless talent, her vivacious wit and her tremendous generosity. Like all great artists, Parton has demonstrated consistently that she can transform adversity and setbacks into works of stunning beauty and insight into the human condition.”
The exhibition will include a wide array of artifacts that reflect Dolly’s journey, including stage costumes, musical instruments, handwritten lyrics, awards, photographs, and personal items. Some key highlights:
- The original handwritten lyrics for “Jolene”
- A custom Gibson banjo adorned with rhinestones and butterflies
- The Sony cassette recorder used to write “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” and “The Seeker”
- Costumes from 9 to 5, her 1975 Dolly album cover, and the Rockstar promotional photos
- Her Grammy-worn platform mules and a dress that inspired her 1979 pinball machine image
- The guitar gifted by her brother Floyd, seen in the “Silver and Gold” video
From the Smoky Mountains to Worldwide Fame
Born in a one-room cabin in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Dolly Parton’s rise was fueled by persistence and a deep love for music. By age 10, she was performing on local radio and TV. At 13, she recorded in Louisiana, and at 16, she moved to Nashville the day after finishing high school.
The exhibit tracks defining moments in Parton’s life and career, including:
- Her Grand Ole Opry debut at age 13, secured after convincing Jimmy C. Newman to give up his slot
- Her refusal to tone down her bold fashion choices, despite industry pressure
- The success of Here You Come Again, which blended country and pop influences
- The launch of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, now active in all 50 U.S. states and abroad
Photos by Bob Delevante for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Supporting Features
Companion Book
An in-depth, illustrated companion book will be available in the museum store and online. It offers insights into four of Parton’s most beloved songs — “9 to 5,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “I Will Always Love You,” and “Jolene” — in Dolly’s own words.
Official Playlist
A curated playlist tied to the exhibit will be released on all major streaming platforms beginning May 20.
Educational Programs
The museum will host public events, family arts and crafts programs, and a special display in the Taylor Swift Education Center focusing on Dolly’s Imagination Library.
Plan Your Visit
Access to Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker is included with museum admission. A limited number of timed exhibit tickets are available daily. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance through the museum’s website.With artifacts, stories, and multimedia displays, Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker is a must-see celebration of an enduring legend who continues to inspire generations.
