When Dolly Parton collaborated with Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr on “Let It Be” for her 2023 album, *Rockstar*, it was a remarkable union of musical icons. Parton described the moment to NPR, stating, “I just sent them a love note through their managers.” Her message conveyed her desire to have them participate in her rock album, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. “Paul was so gracious,” she recalled, and she soon invited Ringo to join the project as well. The collaboration not only highlighted Parton’s enduring talent but also marked a significant milestone as she approaches her 80th birthday on January 19, 2024.
The meeting of Parton and the Beatles was not a first for the iconic singer. She had previously crossed paths with both McCartney and Starr during separate encounters in the 1970s, each leaving a lasting impression for reasons beyond music.
Memorable Meetings in Nashville
On June 16, 1974, Parton met Paul McCartney and his first wife, Linda McCartney, backstage at Opryland in Nashville, Tennessee. The McCartneys were in Nashville for a six-week period, during which they recorded several singles with their band, Wings, including the chart-topping hit “Junior’s Farm.” Their visit coincided with the Grand Masters Fiddling Contest held at Opryland.
During intermission, they were invited backstage, where they encountered Parton and country music star Porter Wagoner. This meeting was particularly poignant as it marked the last occasion that Parton and Wagoner performed together in the 1970s, just a week after their final concert on June 9. This split inspired Parton to write her classic song, “I Will Always Love You,” expressing her gratitude for Wagoner’s support early in her career.
A Surprise Encounter in Los Angeles
A few years later, in the late 1970s, Parton met Ringo Starr through Ken Mansfield, the former U.S. manager of the Beatles’ Apple Records. Mansfield, who was also a Grammy-winning producer, had been bringing Nashville artists to Los Angeles to penetrate the rock scene on the Sunset Strip. Parton and fellow country artist Waylon Jennings were among those who made the transition.
Starr, a longtime fan of country music, was eager to meet Parton. Mansfield arranged an intimate dinner at his home, where neither guest knew the other would be present. The evening took an unexpected turn when producer Stewart Levine, a known admirer of Parton, crashed the gathering.
According to Mansfield’s memoir, *The White Book*, Levine’s unexpected arrival led to a humorous confrontation at the door. As the two men argued, Parton appeared, instantly captivated by Levine. She expressed her admiration for his work, leading to a light-hearted moment where she pretended to be overwhelmed by the encounter.
As laughter filled the room, it became evident that while Parton had met her second Beatle that night, the real highlight was her playful interaction with Levine. The evening, rich with unexpected twists, showcased Parton’s charisma and ability to forge memorable connections regardless of the circumstances.
These encounters with the Beatles not only emphasize Parton’s significant place in music history but also highlight her vibrant personality that continues to resonate with fans and fellow artists alike. The recent collaboration with McCartney and Starr reinforces her status as a musical legend, bridging the worlds of country and rock in a way that only she can.
