A lot of my own relatives didn't get to go to school because we were mountain people. You have to get out and work and help feed the family. My own dad couldn't read and write. And my dad was very proud of me.

So many of my relatives didn't get a chance to go to school, and my own Daddy couldn't read or write.

I look at myself like a show dog. I've got to keep her clipped and trimmed and in good shape.

I know some of the best Dolly Parton jokes. I made 'em up myself.

I would never stoop so low as to be fashionable.

Songwriting is my way of channeling my feelings and my thoughts. Not just mine, but the things I see, the people I care about. My head would explode if I didn't get some of that stuff out.

When I'm inspired, I get excited because I can't wait to see what I'll come up with next.