Stella Parton

Wrote and recorded a song in 1975 called "Ode to Olivia" in response to the backlash Olivia Newton-John was receiving simply for being a "foreigner" in the country music industry, after being nominated for several awards.

Multi-faceted, a consummate entertainer and a true song stylist, Stella has touched audiences worldwide not only through her music, but her stage, television and film presence as well. Stella began her entertainment career at an early age singing gospel music with her family - in church and on television and radio. Her first two albums, which included several original compositions, reflected that early influence and delivered that same sincerity and honesty which is felt in her music today. Relocating to Nashville, Stella wrote and recorded her first hit single, "I Want To Hold You In My Dreams Tonight", which launched her career in country music. She since has recorded 27 chart singles, 17 albums and garnered numerous awards and nominations, including multiple ASCAP Awards and ACM and Music City News Award nominations. Not one to feel fenced in by creative boundaries, Stella took on the rigors of the theatre, starring in four New York touring productions, including "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers", "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas", "Pump Boys and Dinettes" and "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes". Stella has been featured in such films as Cloud (dancer) (1980), The Loner (1988) and Country Gold (1982).

Was named Mainstream Country Artist of the Year in 2002 by the Christian Country Music Association (CCMA).

Was awarded the Female Vocalist of the Year trophy in 2004 by the Christian Country Music Association (CCMA).