Dolly Parton is unsure if she is still classified as a country artist.

The "Queen of Country" is Parton, who is 78 years old.

Dolly Parton is unsure if she is still classified as a country artist.
Dolly Parton is unsure if she is still classified as a country artist.

Over the course of her impressive 60-year career, Dolly Parton has earned the title of "Queen of Country."

Recently, the singer who sings from 9 to 5 pondered if her fans still view her as a country artist.

""Sometimes I question if I'm still considered a country artist because I do so many things outside of country music, like my rock album and movies," Dolly Parton, 78, said on "CBS Mornings" on Wednesday."

A photo of Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton has been a country music star for decades. (Daniel Boczarski)

Billboard ranked Parton as the "number one country artist of all time," prompting her to make comments.

The country music star was unaware of the existence of the category and the fact that she would be voted for it, but she is now "very proud and honored more than anything."

"I do so many things, sometimes I wonder if I’m still considered a country artist." — Dolly Parton

The country singer was taken aback when she first learned she had won the title.

Dolly Parton sits on a couch with her guitar in her lap
Dolly Parton, 78, has been given the title "Queen of Country." (Katherine Bomboy/NBC via Getty Images)

"I was taken aback, but I was accompanied by Willie, Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, and the rest of those amazing individuals."

Gayle King questioned Parton about her shock and surprise, stating, "Given your accomplishments, you should not be surprised at this ranking. You are a successful individual, and there is no other choice when it comes to that particular ranking."

Beyoncé being named the greatest pop star of the 21st century by Billboard was compared to Parton's music career by her.

Photos of Beyonce
Beyoncé released a country album titled "Cowboy Carter." (Getty Images)

"Although Taylor Swift is a dear friend of mine, I believe she earned the second spot in the list. In my opinion, the outcome could have gone either way, as there are numerous other talented artists."

Beyoncé's country album, "Cowboy Carter," features a cover of Dolly Parton's classic hit "Jolene." Parton discussed her thoughts on non-country artists performing country music and country artists performing pop music.

If I can create a rock album, others can do country music, and if you're an artist with a desire to cover the entire spectrum of music and art, you should have the opportunity to do so, Parton stated.

A photo of Dolly Parton then and now
Dolly Parton pictured in 1975, left, and in 2023. (Getty Images)

"I always welcome those who want to be part of our country and consider it a great compliment to them. I also want to be a part of their world at times. Therefore, it should be accepted as such."

Despite being the author of "Billy the Kid Comes Home for Christmas," Parton has struggled with balancing fame and family in her career.

Parton stated that maintaining a balance in her life is always necessary.

Dolly Parton performing at the 2022 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony
Dolly Parton said that despite her busy career, she always tries to be home for Christmas. (Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame)

She said, "Of course, I love family, especially being home for the holidays. I've never missed a Christmas, but I have missed Thanksgiving and many other holidays."

"Although being in show business requires me to be away from home during Christmas, it is crucial to be with family and friends during the holidays."

by Stephanie Giang-Paunon

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