Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” has reached number one in the UK following the country music icon’s death, as tributes continue to pour in from across the entertainment world and beyond.
The song secured Parton her first-ever UK number one single, 46 years after its release and days after she died aged 80 on 25 August.
“9 to 5”, written for the 1980 film in which Parton starred alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, surged up the Official Singles Chart after fans returned to her music following news of her death.
The Official Charts Company said the track had been on course for the top spot after a sharp rise in listening figures. It had previously achieved a UK peak of number 12, despite becoming one of Parton’s most recognisable songs.
Other well-known Parton recordings have also climbed the chart. “Jolene” reached number two, while “Islands In The Stream”, her celebrated duet with Kenny Rogers, rose to number six.
Parton’s death was announced by her nephew Brian Seaver. Her representatives said she had died in Nashville after “bravely facing a brief battle with cancer”, surrounded by loved ones at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center.
News of her death prompted tributes from musicians, actors, politicians and writers, reflecting the breadth of her influence over a career spanning country music, film, television and philanthropy.
Parton, who was born in Tennessee and became one of the most successful singer-songwriters of her generation, was celebrated for songs including “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You”, as well as her performances in films such as 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias.
Her posthumous chart success gives “9 to 5” a new place in UK music history and provides a final public tribute to an artist whose work reached audiences across generations.
