Tennessee plans to change the name of Nashville International Airport to honor the late country music legend, Dolly Parton. The decision follows a social media campaign by fans advocating for the airport’s renaming after Parton passed away at the age of 80 in Nashville, the heart of country music.
Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee engaged with Parton’s team regarding the renaming initiative, emphasizing Parton’s significant impact on the state. The proposal to rename the airport will be discussed at a meeting on September 17, as the current policy of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority typically requires a two-year period after an individual’s passing before naming any property after them.
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development supports the renaming, recognizing Parton’s role as a prominent figure in promoting the state’s tourism industry. Commissioner Mark Ezell highlighted Parton’s influence in showcasing Tennessee’s music, landscapes, and hospitality to millions of travelers worldwide.
Dolly Parton, born on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tennessee, began her musical journey at a young age, performing at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville at the age of 13. Throughout her career, she produced timeless hits like “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” and “I Will Always Love You,” solidifying her status as one of the top-selling female artists in history with over 100 million records sold. Parton’s remarkable achievements include winning 11 Grammy Awards, including a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.