Dolly Parton has died

American country singer Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80. Her death was announced by her nephew Brian Seaver, writes The New York Times.

Over the course of a career spanning more than 50 years, Dolly Parton has released 49 albums, won 11 Grammy Awards, and become one of the country music scene's most commercially successful singers. In 1999, she was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Parton was not only a performer, but also a songwriter. She wrote more than three thousand compositions, many of which were performed by other artists. So, it was Dolly Parton who was the author of the hit “I Will Always Love You” , famously performed by Whitney Houston.

Other famous Dolly Parton songs include "Jolene" , "Coat of Many Colors" and "9 to 5" .

Dolly Parton also starred in films, published several books, was involved in business (she opened the Dollywood theme park in her home state of Tennessee) and charity.