Introduction

Dolly Parton & Emmylou Harris Reflect on the Magic, Chaos, and Sisterhood Behind the Trio Group

When Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris sit down to look back on the legendary Trio project, their memories unfold like scenes from a decades-old home movie—warm, spontaneous, and filled with the kind of creative electricity that only happens once in a lifetime. The origins of the Trio collaboration stretch back to 1973, when Emmylou first met Linda Ronstadt at Liberty Hall in Houston, Texas. The moment was simple, almost ordinary: two young singers crossing paths backstage. Yet, as Emmylou recalls, it became a turning point.

Like many conversations between women in the same craft, the first question exchanged was lighthearted but revealing: “Who’s your favorite girl singer?” Their answer came instantly and identically—Dolly. That shared admiration became the seed of a friendship and creative bond that would eventually grow into one of country and American folk music’s most celebrated collaborations.

As Dolly remembers it, the first time the three women sang together, something undeniable happened. Their voices aligned with a natural ease, creating harmonies that felt both ancient and brand-new. Even though they were tied to different record labels, managers, and demanding schedules, the connection was too powerful to ignore. They all knew—without any discussion—that they had to make a record together. And eventually, despite all obstacles, they did.

The Trio project became more than just an album. It was an artistic safe haven, a place where three distinct, powerhouse voices blended into something soft, intricate, and profoundly emotional. Dolly describes the entire Trio collection as deeply meaningful, especially now that Linda Ronstadt is no longer able to sing due to health struggles. That fact casts a bittersweet glow over the memories, amplifying every detail that might have once seemed insignificant.

One of the clearest memories they share is filming the music video for “To Know Him Is to Love Him.” The three sat together on a couch, cutting paper valentines like schoolgirls. Dolly laughs remembering how she herself was only “cutting for show,” playing along for the camera, while Linda took the job completely seriously—focused, meticulous, and lost in her own world of creativity. Both Dolly and Emmylou still treasure the actual valentines Linda later sent them, sweet reminders of a woman who poured genuine emotion into even the smallest gestures.

Looking back, the Trio felt playful, innocent, almost girlish—something that contrasts humorously with the sharp, confident women they were. But that sweetness, that sense of gentle mischief, became part of what made the project shine. For Dolly, Emmylou, and Linda, Trio wasn’t just music; it was a moment in time, carved out of friendship, trust, and the pure joy of singing together.

Video