Journalists from across the United States gathered together July 5 via conference call to interview Dolly Parton about her new album Pure and Simple and her international tour, also titled Pure and Simple, which will be coming to the UCCU Center in Orem July 26.
Over 30 journalists who work for newspapers, magazines, and websites such as The New York Times, The Guardian, St. Louis Post, The Windsor Era, The Daily Herald and the UVU Review, assembled to have the opportunity to each ask Parton one question of their own choosing. The majority of questions asked were about her music and her sold out Pure and Simple tour, which will be coming to over 60 cities in the United States and Canada.
In addition to her recent tour, Parton is releasing her 43rd studio album Pure and Simple which contains 12 songs that Parton wrote and produced herself. When asked about what this particular album, Parton explained that the title of the album is the essence of each song.
It’s pure and simple …something everyone can relate to, said Parton. Her hope for the new album is that people can find a song that they like and connect with. Along with that, Parton hopes that her tour, Pure and Simple, will be relatable. A journalist from the St. Louis post asked Parton if she tries to incorporate new songs, stories or other things into each stop along her tour. Parton stated that because she has performed countless shows and that this is her first tour in over 20 years, she does have new things that she wants to introduce into performances.
Parton loves to enjoy each concert and to do this, she tries to add new moments in every time. Parton laughed as she admitted that she likes to crack jokes and make the audience laugh to keep them entertained. She also likes to include stories and gospel music. Similar to her upcoming album, the idea on the Pure and Simple tour is to make each show reflect its title. She tries to create an experience that is applicable to everyone without making a big production.
Her attempts at a simplistic and engaging tour are drawn from her character. Many years ago, Parton said the only thing about her that wasn’t fake was her heart. This statement was truly shown in the conference call. Through her charismatic personality, kind words, and polite manners, Parton showcased her loving and genuine personality. Her ideas about making her tour and music relatable should come naturally to her because of the homey, loving atmosphere she creates. Parton’s genuine nature made for a fun, laid back interview and created a sense of excitement for her Pure and Simple tour and album.
