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Dolly Parton's America: Sad Ass Songs
This episode pays tribute to Dolly Parton by replaying a segment from the 2017 series, "Dolly Parton's America." The central question explored is how Parton, despite her image, became a feminist icon. Author Helen Morales advised examining Parton's lyrics, revealing early songs about female pain and societal issues. Dolly's "sad ass songs" detailed slut-shaming, domestic violence, and women unjustly confined. She transformed the traditional Appalachian "murder ballad" by narrating from the woman's perspective. As her career advanced, her music evolved to portray women escaping abusive situations. The episode delves into how these pro-woman messages emerged from someone who dislikes the term "feminism," letting Dolly articulate her own views. Episode credits list Jad Abumrad and Shima Oliaee as reporters, Jad Abumrad as producer, and W. Harry Fortuna as helper. Alex Overington contributed original music and sound design, with Suzie Lechtenberg editing. The text also includes information about signing up for a newsletter and supporting Radiolab.