In 2007, the country music world enjoyed a new release by legendary performer Porter Wagoner; now that world mourns his death.  Wagoner is remembered for making many hits, popularizing a young Dolly Parton, and acting as ambassador and advocate for his genre.  This week the WPA Film Library celebrates Wagoner and Parton, two icons of music history.  View retrospective.

Established artists and rising stars recognized the influence of Wagoner’s television program and flocked to join him.  Guests included Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, June Carter, Minnie Pearl, The Oak Ridge Boys, Merle Haggard, Hank Williams, Jr., and many others.  After the show’s two-decade run, Wagoner continued to perform, and this year marked his 50th year with the Grand Ole Opry®.

2007 marked an anniversary for Dolly Parton, too:  In 1967, Wagoner chose her to join the cast of his show.  The move contributed to Parton’s visibility—and launched a series of hit duets with Wagoner.  Later, Parton hosted her own TV show with diverse guests ranging from Linda Ronstadt and Kenny Rogers to KC & the Sunshine Band.  Over the years as a singer, songwriter, actor, & businesswoman, Dolly Parton has become a legend in her own right.

The WPA Film Library is pleased to offer unique footage of these two artists.  Hundreds of episodes of The Porter Wagoner Show, as well as the 1976 program Dolly, are among the extensive music holdings at WPA.  Enjoy these short samples (unfortunately no songs could be included), and please contact us if interested in footage of these or other country music greats.