Why many Black Americans feel a special kinship with Dolly Parton

NPR | By Jordan-Marie Smith,

Justine Kenin, Adrian Florido

Published August 26, 2026 at 4:27 PM EDT

The late superstar Dolly Parton had an incredible legacy in American culture. That was even true from a Black American viewpoint. The Black Wall Street Times' Nehemiah Frank describes Parton's impact.

Jordan-Marie Smith

Jordan-Marie Smith is a producer with NPR's All Things Considered.

Justine Kenin

Justine Kenin is an editor on All Things Considered.

Adrian Florido

Adrian Florido is a national correspondent for NPR covering race and identity in America.

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