Tennessee plans to rename Nashville International Airport in honor of the late country music legend Dolly Parton. The decision follows a social media campaign by fans advocating for the airport to bear Parton’s name. Governor Bill Lee engaged in discussions with Parton’s team regarding this initiative.
Lee emphasized the significant impact Parton has had on Tennessee, stating that her life is deeply intertwined with the state’s identity. He highlighted that renaming the airport after Parton would be a fitting tribute to her enduring legacy of music, generosity, faith, and kindness.
The proposal to rename the airport will be presented at a meeting scheduled for Sept. 17, as the current policy of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority typically requires a two-year waiting period after an individual’s passing before naming any property in their honor.
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development expressed support for the renaming, with Commissioner Mark Ezell describing Parton as a pivotal figure in promoting Tennessee’s tourism. Parton’s contributions as a musician and ambassador have played a crucial role in shaping the state’s image to travelers worldwide.
Born on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tennessee, Parton’s early exposure to music led her to pursue a career in the industry. With iconic hits like “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” and “I Will Always Love You,” Parton’s immense success in the music industry solidified her status as one of the top-selling female artists, with over 100 million records sold and 11 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award.