Kelli Belles Remembers Dolly Parton | San Antonio News

San Antonio News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 26, 2026 · 2m

Country star Kelli Belles opens up about her unforgettable collaboration with Dolly Parton, calling the legendary icon a radiant force who left an indelible mark on her life and music. Belles, who once dreamed of becoming “the next Dolly” after a studio engineer’s praise, got her big break when she wrote “Son of Jolene,” which Parton loved so much she joined the project — a dream come true. Beyond the stage, Belles recalls Parton’s genuine warmth, candid conversations, and heartfelt advice to “follow your God gut,” a mantra that still guides her. Now, with Parton’s passing, Belles feels a…