Country music legend Dolly Parton shares the inspiration behind her upcoming cookbook, "Good Lookin' Cookin'," which celebrates the three pillars of her family: God, music, and food. She discusses the connection between cooking and songwriting and reveals the specific dishes that evoke memories of her childhood home.
Country music legend Dolly Parton is renowned not only for her chart-topping hits but also for her philanthropic endeavors and strong family values. In an interview with Allrecipes, Parton and her younger sister, Rachel Parton George, unveiled the inspiration behind their upcoming cookbook, "Good Lookin' Cookin'."
"God, music, and food were the three big things in our family," Parton explained. The Southern-style recipe book, set for release on Tuesday, reflects Parton's childhood memories and the unwavering bond she shares with her family.
Dolly Parton: Music, Faith, and Food
Cooking and creating music have always been intertwined for Parton. "It's just being creative, like writing a song," she said. "Some of my best songs I came up with while cooking my best food, and vice versa. The better I write, the better I cook."
Parton's love for cooking stems from the fond memories she associates with her mother's home cooking. "I think home tastes like Mama," she said. "I think you always link those childhood memories with certain childhood foods that you love and the people that prepare them for you."
Dolly Parton: Music, Faith, and Food
The cookbook features heartwarming family stories, including Parton's recollections of dishes that bring her back to her childhood home. For instance, the Hot Wing Dip reminds her of the spicy woman in her song "Jolene."
"Oh, something spicy — like our Hot Wing Dip," George said. "That woman was just hungry for my man. It’s not in the cookbook, but it’s in the song," Parton explained.
Dolly Parton: Music, Faith, and Food
Beyond cooking, Parton has a busy professional schedule. In June, she announced her plans to bring "Hello, I'm Dolly" to Broadway, a musical inspired by her life. Parton is writing new songs for the show, scheduled to premiere in 2026.
"I’ve written many original songs for the show and included all your favorites in it as well. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll clap, you’ll stomp, it truly is a Grand Ol’ Opera. Pun and fun intended," Parton said in a statement.
Dolly Parton: Music, Faith, and Food
Parton's Broadway debut will not be her first musical endeavor. In 2009, a stage version of "9 to 5" starred Stephanie J. Block, Megan Hilty, and Allison Janney, and her 1993 Christmas special "Candles, Snow & Mistletoe" featured her song "With Bells On."
With a remarkable career spanning over half a century, Parton has achieved unparalleled success and recognition. She has 52 Grammy nominations, second only to Beyoncé, and has received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Parton is also celebrated for her philanthropic work and was honored as MusiCares Person of the Year, becoming the first country artist to receive the award.
Dolly Parton: Music, Faith, and Food
Parton's unwavering faith, strong family bonds, and passion for music have shaped her journey and continue to inspire her both personally and professionally. "Good Lookin' Cookin'" is a testament to the values that have guided her life and will undoubtedly resonate with fans who appreciate her authenticity and heartfelt approach to family, faith, and the simple joys of life.
