Dolly Parton, the legendary country music singer and songwriter, has had a fascinating career filled with incredible stories. One of the most memorable incidents from her early days in the music industry occurred during her first trip to New York City. Despite her rising fame and success, she faced an unexpected turn of events when she and her friend were expelled from a hotel. In this blog post, we delve into the intriguing story of Dolly Parton's expulsion from a hotel during her inaugural visit to the Big Apple.

The First Trip to NYC:

In the late 1960s or early 1970s, Dolly Parton, a country girl from the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, embarked on her first trip to New York City. At that time, she had just begun making a name for herself in the country music scene. Accompanied by her childhood friend Judy Lana, Dolly eagerly ventured into the bustling city, dreaming of experiencing the urban life.

The Hotel Incident:

Arriving in New York City with limited funds, Dolly and Judy checked into a hotel, sharing a single room due to their financial constraints. Dolly humorously recalls that she looked even cheaper back then than she does now. Unfortunately, the hotel staff mistakenly assumed they were prostitutes and promptly threw them out of their room, leaving their luggage in the hallway.

An Unintended Misadventure:

Left without a place to stay, Dolly and Judy found themselves wandering the streets of New York City. Unfamiliar with the area, they unintentionally ended up on 42nd Street, where they encountered an encounter that would further escalate the situation. As a young country girl unaccustomed to the city, Dolly carried a gun in her purse for protection.

The Gun Incident:

As they were walking down 42nd Street, a man approached Dolly, persistently pursuing her despite her disinterest. Feeling threatened, Dolly resorted to a desperate measure. She pulled out her gun and warned the man that if he touched her again, she would shoot him. To her surprise, the situation took an unexpected turn when her friend Judy burst into laughter, assuming it was a joke. The man also perceived it as a comedic act, believing that they were part of a duo seeking attention.

Reflections on the Experience:

Dolly Parton often shares this anecdote during interviews, highlighting the stark contrast between her country upbringing and the fast-paced, unfamiliar environment of New York City. Despite the initial challenges she faced during her first visit, Dolly developed a fondness for the city over the years and has since become a beloved figure in the Big Apple.

Conclusion:

Dolly Parton's expulsion from a hotel during her initial trip to New York City showcases her resilience and ability to find humor in challenging situations. Despite the hotel incident and the unintended gun display, Dolly's love for the city prevailed, and she has since become an icon adored by people from all walks of life. This memorable experience adds another chapter to the extraordinary life story of Dolly Parton, an enduring legend in the world of music and entertainment.