Keith Urban is undoubtedly a role model for many rising singers and musicians. His concerts are electrifying. His dedication is plain to behold. And his creativity ranks as boundless. Nevertheless, Urban, 58, has his own role models that he looked up to as he rose through the country music hierarchy. One of them is the peerless Dolly Parton. At 80, she still leads the pack.
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Urban Admiringly Called Parton "a Trailblazer"
He recently spoke with People about the "Jolene" singer at the Musicians Hall of Fame induction. Both he and Parton, who was not present, were being admitted to that select group. Urban shared, "She's just ... fearless and a trailblazer and just such a one-of-one. And I think she continues to remind every artist that it's just about expression and following your creative path and being fearless in it."
Furthermore, he said, "She is a perfect prime example of always trying something different. I never think of her as pushing the envelope. I think about her not letting anything get in the way of the envelope."
He Sang Her Songs as a Youngster
Urban recalled on The Ellen DeGeneres Show four years ago how he was introduced to Dolly Parton's music. He was a kid then, but he had an ear! He shared with DeGeneres, "I come from working-class parents and a rural kind of background in Australia, and the first time I met Dolly — she's sung with me a few times — and the first time I met her it was surreal, because, I mean, I grew up singing her songs."
Additionally, Keith Urban mentioned, "As a matter of fact, I sang her songs because I was 9 years old, and my voice hadn't broken yet, and I sounded like her — I could sing in her key."
Parton Holds Urban in High Regard
In 2022, Dolly Parton was asked an offbeat question on Good Morning America. The singer was asked who she would like to sing with and bake a cake with as well. Her answer was Keith Urban. "Probably any of the good-looking ones. I love Keith Urban. I've always thought that he was one of the most talented — and cutest — guys in the world."
You have really good taste, Dolly!
