Music's Susan McClary says Dolly Parton's authenticity helped defy stereotypes and created an icon

Dolly Parton defied country music's expectations for women and built a career on her own terms

Fox News: Susan McClary, a professor of music in the College of Arts and Sciences, said Dolly Parton entered the music industry with two strikes against her. "She performed country music—a genre disdained by many listeners; and she presented herself in her attire and make-up as a cartoonish stereotype. Through perseverance, talent, self-deprecating sense of humor, and generosity, she managed to win over a vast fanbase while never compromising her values."