I don’t think I’ve ever played a Dolly Parton album before today. Of course, I’m familiar with her hits and well aware of her significance as a songwriter and as a catalyst for many musicians, as well as the role model she has been for many female musicians of subsequent generations. And I’m aware of her tireless social commitment to the poor, to women and to marginalised groups, and of her resistance to exclusion and discrimination. Yesterday it was announced that Dolly Parton had passed away at the age of 80. Reason enough to give her music a listen and to pay tribute to a woman who will leave a gap in US society that cannot be filled. I have little connection to country music. With very few exceptions (tending more towards country rock), the genre reflects a reality that is quite alien to my European, urban culture. Most country music does end up sounding clichéd and saccharine, white and idealised. This largely applies to Dolly Parton’s 1971 album "Coat of Many Colors" as well. But I cannot help but acknowledge her musical and vocal mastery. It’s all brilliantly done. Dolly Parton wasn’t just an icon because she was a good person, but because she was a bloody good musician. I like a few of the songs; a few are a bit too ‘country’ for my taste. But today isn’t the day to play the know-it-all critic. We’ll always love you, Dolly.