April 20, 1959, marked a momentous day in country music history. It was the day a young Dolly Parton, at the tender age of 13, released her very first single, “Puppy Love.”
This wasn’t just any song. “Puppy Love,” co-written by Dolly at the precocious age of 11 with her Uncle Bill Owens, showcased a talent for songwriting that would define her career. The upbeat tune captured the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with young love, a theme that continues to resonate with listeners across generations.
The release wasn’t without its adventure. Dolly and her grandmother took a grueling 30-hour bus ride to the recording studio in Lake Charles, Louisiana, a testament to her determination and early passion for music.