Tanya Tucker, the renowned country singer-songwriter, recently shared insights with PEOPLE about her latest venture as a voiceover artist for the PBS documentary “Made in the West.” This project allows her to merge her passion for storytelling with her desire to help preserve the rich legacy of Western craftsmanship.
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The documentary, which is currently airing on PBS, delves into the lives of American artisans whose work embodies the essence of the American West. It also highlights an urgent issue: many of these skilled craftspeople are ageing, risking the potential loss of their art form. Tucker, 67, expressed a deep connection to the artisans featured in the film, stating, “When an artist is an artist, no matter what they do, they have the same trials.” Her enthusiasm for voice acting has been a longstanding aspiration, with Tucker expressing to her management her desire to take on such roles for years.
Reflecting on her new role, Tucker recounted her surprise when she received the offer to narrate the documentary. “They made me an offer I couldn’t refuse,” she recalled. “I said, ‘No, this is too good. This can’t be real.’” The singer reminisced about her childhood dreams of performing voiceovers for Disney films, inspired by the iconic narration of Rex Allen. Her recognition of her own voice among crowds further fuels her passion for this new avenue.
In discussing the artisans featured in “Made in the West,” Tucker revealed her personal connections to the Western art scene. She fondly recounted trips taken with her children to Wyoming, where she developed lasting memories associated with the beauty of the region. “If I could have a dream home and put everything in it that I would love, it would be full of these kinds of art pieces,” she said. She likens the struggles of artists—be it in music or crafts—acknowledging that the creation of art can be effortless while navigating the business side can prove challenging.
The documentary also shines a light on Indigenous artists who have significantly shaped Western aesthetics. Tucker reflected on the historical context of this artistry. She is keenly aware of the cultural and historical factors that contribute to the survival of these crafts. “It’s a dying art,” she noted, expressing a commitment to support its continuation for future generations.
On the musical front, Tucker revealed that she has three albums ready for release, alongside her recent collaboration with fellow country star Shania Twain. The two teamed up to create the title track for Twain’s latest album, “Little Miss Twain,” a project that ignited Tucker’s enthusiasm. The spontaneous nature of their collaboration added excitement, with Tucker recalling how Twain flew her out to Los Angeles for a surprise meeting.
Their shared musical experience brought forth a powerful bond. Tucker’s engagement in this project was filled with genuine emotion as they listened to the newly created song together. “We had some tears in our eyes, and it was just so raw,” she recalled. For Tucker, such moments reinforce her love for music and collaboration with other talented artists.
As she reminisced about her long-standing friendship with the late Dolly Parton, Tucker expressed profound sadness over her loss. “I can’t get my head wrapped around it,” she shared, underscoring the impact Parton had on her life and career. They shared a history of working together on the song “Romeo,” yet Tucker wishes they had spent more time together outside of professional commitments. Her reflections on Parton reveal a deep admiration for the singer’s artistry and authenticity.
Tucker’s fondest memories of Parton include moments in the studio where they shared laughter and creativity. She described a particular session where she entered the recording booth feeling insecure about her vocal ability, a concern that melted away once she began to sing. This experience encapsulates the supportive nature of their friendship, highlighting how Parton was a nurturing presence.
In closing, Tucker celebrated her ongoing love for music, noting the continued relevance of her classic hit “Delta Dawn.” As she prepares to release a new rendition in collaboration with original players on the song, she reflects on its revival in popular culture, illustrating the enduring legacy of powerful songwriting. “If that song was never out, it’d be a hit when it came out this year,” Tucker asserted, feeling grateful for her role in bringing the song to life.
As “Made in the West” continues to air on PBS, Tanya Tucker’s voiceover work shines a light on the artistry of the American West, while her music career remains vibrant, showcasing her unyielding passion for both art forms.