Remembering Dolly Parton: A Tribute to a One-of-a-Kind Artist and Humanitarian

In this episode of Set Lusting Bruce, host Jesse Jackson and guest Joe K step off the Springsteen track to honor Dolly Parton following news of her death on August 25, 2026, reflecting on her six-decade career as the “Queen of Country,” her landmark songs, acting roles, business success with Dollywood, and rare talent for reimagining other artists’ work. They share personal first memories of Dolly, discuss the story behind “I Will Always Love You,” and highlight her unmatched warmth, humor, talk-show brilliance, and ability to unite diverse audiences while advocating tolerance. Much of the conversation centers on her philanthropy—especially the Imagination Library and support for research tied to the Moderna COVID vaccine—urging listeners to donate and keep her legacy alive by revisiting her music, movies, and performances.

https://imaginationlibrary.com/

00:00 Porch Song Opening

01:17 Podcast Intro and Loss

02:41 Dolly Legacy Overview

03:17 Dollywood and Integrity

04:15 Songwriting and Covers

09:47 First Dolly Memories

12:55 Movies and Talk Shows

15:52 I Will Always Love You Story

19:05 Sexism and Respect

20:46 Tributes and Philanthropy