I have always been a Dolly Parton fan. While I couldn’t quite go all in for her style since I tend to appreciate a more natural look on most humans, I get it. One thing her wigs and makeup afforded her was a certain amount of anonymity when not in her professional “get up.”

She was one smart cookie, an amazingly accomplished songwriter, and an apolitical force in showbiz with perhaps the most perfect enunciation of the English language while singing than any other performer that I can think of. And a supreme humanitarian, to boot.

I have heard her life commemorated on many KWMR programs since she passed at the age of 80 from complications from cancer. She will be greatly missed, but as with her musical and other artistic peers, leaves an incredible legacy that we can continue to enjoy forever.

I’m highlighting a few of the shows that I know paid tribute to the amazing Dolly Parton in case you missed them.

Djimi G included Dolly tracks on “Megolamedia Melange” last Tuesday night. Listen HERE.

On “Community DJ Hour” Jeff Manson and Jordan Bowen invited Kelly McFarling to join them. She was laying down some vocal tracks for Sonny Smith and brought him along when she came to do the show. Joining in on the fun as well was Jessica Orlowski, who starts her own new gardening show “What’s Growing On” on Tuesday, September 15. Listen HERE.

Jeff Manson again paid tribute, along with many other fine tunes, on “West County Prowl” on Wednesday night. Listen HERE.

Howard Dillon and Jennie Pfeiffer sat in for “Sonic Supreme” and played some great Dolly tunes during that show. Listen HERE.

Mike Varley and I added a hearty dose of Dolly to “Bakersfield and Beyond” including some of her rock hits released in 2023. Thanks to Mike for finding all the great tunes. Listen HERE.

Here is what listener, and brewmaster David Montgomery said about “Bakersfield and Beyond:” (It was a super fun show.)

“OMG – Dolly Parton doing Led Zeppelin!!! (as a died-in-the-wool Zeppelin fan I loved this). Dolly doing Joan Jett, Heartbreaker, Purple Rain, Freebird!?!?! … what alternate universe am I existing in … Whoa!!!! What a tribute!!! Great show…

I’m sure Dolly appeared on other shows, and will continue to be remembered fondly in song for the rest of time.

A few things to mention that are currently happening or are coming up soon: 

• This coming Sunday on September 6th is the Tomales Festival. KWMR will be there and hope to connect with YOU if you attend. Stop by and say “hi.”
• The Box Show is happening now! As usual there are some amazing creations. This is a fundraiser for Gallery Route One. Swing in and take a look!
• The 2026-2027 Inaugural Season of the Point Reyes Chamber Concerts is kicking off on September 20th. Catch these amazing acts close to home. More info HERE.
• “Sick to Death” a Moliere play translated and adapted by Geoff Hoyle, and produced by Sharron Drake opens this coming weekend. Get information and tickets HERE.
• “With Love, To Palestine,” at Toby’s Feed Barn on September 6th from 9AM to 3PM, with a quality rummage sale, Palestinian arts and crafts, music, food, and a community banner painting. More info by emailing coastalmarin4palestine at gmail.com.

Have you been wondering where Jeff Wilkinson, the  host of “Cruisin’” and “Saturday Night Function” has been? He is on the mend and will be back on the air as soon as he is able. I’ll let him tell you all about his most recent adventures. 

Have a great week!

Sincerely,
Amanda Eichstaedt
KWMR Station Manager and Executive Director

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