The Great Pretender

Released in 1984, The Great Pretender represents a unique pivot point in Dolly Parton's career. Following her massive crossover success in the late 70s and early 80s, this album saw her stepping back from original songwriting to interpret a series of hits from the 1950s and 1960s. Produced by Val Garay, known for his work with Kim Carnes and James Taylor, the record features a sophisticated 'LA-meets-Nashville' sound. While some purists at the time were wary of the heavy use of synthesizers and polished pop production, the album was a commercial success and showcased Dolly's versatility as a pure vocalist. It includes covers of classics like 'Save the Last Dance for Me' and 'Turn, Turn, Turn,' all filtered through a prism of mid-80s adult contemporary and country-pop. This record solidified her status as a global entertainer capable of handling any genre with her signature Appalachian-rooted grace.