Dolly Parton Revives Previously Unreleased 1988 Song 'A Rose Won't Fix It' as a Duet with Niece Heidi — Listen!

Mar. 15, 2025

Dolly Parton in Nashville in November 2023.Photo:Jason Kempin/Getty

Jason Kempin/Getty

Dolly Parton’s latest project is a family affair.

The legendary country star, 78, is set to release a lengthy new album in November that will trace her family’s origins from the U.K. to Tennessee — and she’s calling on a slew of siblings, cousins, aunts and uncles to help her do it.

On Friday, Aug. 23, Parton released the new song “A Rose Won’t Fix It,” which features her niece Heidi Parton on lead vocals, and Parton herself in the background. It’s the second track released so far offDolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA - Family, Faith & Fables, after the title track.

“Rose,” an uptempo song about how flowers won’t suffice as an apology for having been done wrong, was written and recorded for Parton’s 1988 albumHungry Againbut didn’t make the final cut.

“I’m so honored to be a part of this incredible family project. To have the song I got to be a part of as a single release is one of the greatest moments of my life! And our family is so talented and I can’t wait for you all to hear that talent,” Heidi wrote on Instagram. “I sincerely hope you love this song as much as I do.”

The upcoming album is 37 songs long, and will highlight the journeys of two families: the Partons, on her dad’s side, and the Owens family, on her mom’s side.

Dolly’s mom,Avie Lee Parton, who died in 2003, is featured on several songs, as are other late relatives, including her uncle Bill Owens and auntEstelle Owens Watson, plus brothersFloydandRandy.

Niece Jada Star, who appeared on the second season of the ABC competition seriesClaim to Fame, is featured on the song “The Orchard,” while sisters Cassie, Stella, Rachel and Freida also get their moments in the spotlight.

A press release called the record’s title track, “Smoky Mountain DNA,” an “overarching theme that celebrates the musical roots and heritage of her family.” The record is set for release on Nov. 15.

Parton’s most recent album,Rockstar, came out in November 2023 and marked her first full-length foray into the rock genre.

source: people.com