Stella Parton is stepping back into the music scene with the release of her new single “Stand by Me,” marking her return after a seven-year break. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 77-year-old singer reflects on the importance of family and humour as essential elements for navigating life’s challenges, particularly alongside her sister, legendary country artist Dolly Parton.
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The bond between Stella and Dolly, aged 80, is anchored in a tradition of laughter amid adversity. Stella explains that their family has always adhered to a guiding principle: “We just have to laugh and laugh at ourselves as much as we laugh at everybody else, because if you take it too serious, you can’t carry the load.” She likens the benefits of laughter to those of physical exercise or a satisfying meal, noting that it serves as an endorphin booster amid life’s trials.
The sisters share a morning ritual they fondly call their “kaffeeklatsch,” a term derived from German that denotes an informal gathering over coffee. Stella notes, “I say, ‘This is Sissy. I’m here for our kaffeeklatsch.’ And so we talk and have our coffee.” This practice serves as both a catch-up and a source of mutual support. Stella describes Dolly as being in good spirits and maintaining a philosophical outlook on life despite their recent hardships.
In the last few years, the sisters have navigated profound personal loss, including the deaths of their brothers David, Randy, and Floyd. Their sibling group also includes Willadeene, Coy, Bobby, Cassie, Freida, and Rachel, each contributing to the rich tapestry of their family life. Notably, Dolly has faced her own trials, including the loss of her husband, Carl Dean, in March 2025. Despite these challenges, Dolly recently reassured fans about her health in a video update, stating that she is responding well to treatment.
Stella attributes much of their resilience to the lessons learned from their mother, Avie Lee. She recalls a meaningful exchange when she expressed frustration towards her mother’s behaviour. Avie Lee responded, “Now Stella, I’m just a little girl. I’ve just been here longer.” Through this wisdom, Stella feels that their family embodies a youthful spirit: “I think that’s kind of our family trait. We’re always going to be children. But isn’t everyone?”
The release of “Stand by Me” signifies Stella’s return to music after her last album, “Survivor,” in 2018. The hiatus was largely influenced by the grief stemming from her multiple losses. Yet, she now feels reinvigorated, planning the release of a covers album titled “Nostalgia” later in the year. She is also actively creating new music, pouring her emotions and experiences into her art.
Despite the challenges she has faced, Stella adopts an optimistic stance. She states, “It was hard, but you just have to take a philosophical approach. When you get the wind knocked out of your sails, you have to wait for a new gust of wind and take flight again. That’s all you can do.” This perspective resonates within the framework of her newfound music and serves as an inspiration to others facing similar struggles.
As the music industry prepares for Stella’s return, fans can look forward to her creative expression shaped by her life experiences, family dynamics, and the undying support she shares with her sister, Dolly. Through both laughter and music, the Parton sisters continue to uphold a legacy of resilience, bonding over shared moments that go beyond the spotlight and into the heart of family life.