Album: New Harvest... First Gathering

Introduction
"New Harvest ... First Gathering" is a revolutionary album by the iconic queen of c and w, Dolly Parton. Launched in 1977, this album marked a significant change in Parton's career, as it was her first venture into the pop and adult modern categories. The record became a crucial step in her shift from a strictly country artist to a mainstream crossover success, which would eventually result in her status as an international super star.

Background and Production
In the mid-1970s, Dolly Parton had already established herself as one of the most significant c and w stars, thanks to her effective duets with Porter Wagoner and her solo hits. Nevertheless, Parton was ready to expand her audience and check out brand-new musical area. With "New Harvest ... First Gathering", she intended to reach a more comprehensive market by integrating a blend of country, pop, and adult modern sounds.

For the album's production, Parton got the assistance of Gary Klein, who had previously dealt with various pop artists and rock bands. With Klein onboard, Parton was able to achieve the imaginative liberty she looked for, breaking away from the restraints of her previous country-inspired work. The album was taped in both Nashville and Los Angeles, bridging the gap between the country and pop worlds.

Album Content
"New Harvest ... First Gathering" boasts a collection of 10 tracks, including a mix of original tunes penned by Parton and cover variations of popular tunes. Amongst the brand-new structures is the poignant ballad, "My Heart Started Breaking", which showcases Parton's effective, emotive vocals and her propensity for storytelling. Another initial, "Applejack", offers a taste of Parton's signature country style, with a dynamic, positive tune focused around a banjo-picking character.

On the covers front, Parton provides her unique take on different widely known tunes, such as "My Girl (My Love)", a reimagining of the soul traditional "My Girl", initially tape-recorded by The Temptations. This variation features Parton's country-flavored vocals layered over a breezy, emotional arrangement. She likewise takes on the gospel standard "How Great Thou Art", which highlights her deep-rooted spirituality and affinity for gospel music.

Reception and Impact
Upon its release, "New Harvest ... First Gathering" was consulted with combined reviews from music critics, with some praising Parton's strong endeavor into pop territory and others questioning the decision to move away from her nation roots. Despite the criticism, the album reached No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and No. 77 on the Billboard 200, showing that Parton's appeal went beyond the nation genre.

The album's lead single, "Light of a Clear Blue Morning", only peaked at No. 11 on the Hot Country Songs chart, however has because turned into one of Parton's a lot of beloved songs for its message of hope and resilience. "New Harvest ... First Gathering" paved the way for Parton's ongoing crossover success throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, when she accomplished massive hits with songs like "9 to 5" and "Islands in the Stream".

Conclusion
"New Harvest ... First Gathering" became a critical turning point in Dolly Parton's renowned profession, as it marked the start of her journey into the mainstream music scene. While the album got a blended reaction upon its initial release, it has since been celebrated for its creative risk-taking and groundbreaking blend of nation, pop, and adult modern sounds. Ultimately, "New Harvest ... First Gathering" is a vital piece of music history that showcases the versatility and immense talent of one of the world's most beloved artists.