Album: The Grass Is Blue

Introduction
The Grass is Blue, launched in 1999, is a seriously acclaimed album by Dolly Parton that marks her return to her bluegrass music roots. Produced by Steve Buckingham, this album showcases Parton's authentic appreciation for bluegrass, standard nation, and Appalachian music. The album includes both initial tracks and Parton's analyses of some old classics, even more showing her expertise and timelessness as an artist. It features collaborations with a few of the most popular bluegrass artists like Stuart Duncan, Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush, Bryan Sutton, and Jim Mills. The Grass Is Blue won the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album in 2001.

Background and Production
After formerly releasing different music genres like pop and nation, Dolly Parton chose to make a bluegrass album, drawing motivation from her childhood in rural East Tennessee. She hired some of the best bluegrass musicians and partnered with manufacturer Steve Buckingham, who had checked out bluegrass music himself in the 1980s and 1990s.

The recording procedure occurred in Woodland Studios and Sound Emporium Studios in Nashville, Tennessee. However, some last mixing was conducted at Emerald Sound Studios. The artists included were not just instrumental in forming the sound of the record but also participated in organizing the album.

Tracklist and Themes
The Grass Is Blue includes 13 tracks, consisting of Parton originals, analyses of folk and standard tunes, and covers of more modern artists.

1. "Travelin' Prayer"-- Originally by Billy Joel, Parton's bluegrass cover breathes new life into the song and sets the tone for the album that follows.
2. "Cash on the Barrelhead"-- Written by Charlie and Ira Louvin, Parton honors their tradition with a faithful interpretation of the tune.
3. "A Few Old Memories"-- Parton sings Hazel Dickens' song with genuine feeling, assessing the memories of previous love.
4. "I'm Gon na Sleep With One Eye Open"-- This Flatt & Scruggs classic is offered a new spin by Parton's analysis.
5. "Steady as the Rain"-- An original tune penned by Parton, it showcases her timeless storytelling and songwriting skills.
6. "I Still Miss Someone"-- Parton pays homage to Johnny Cash with this performance of the Cash classic.
7. "Endless Stream of Tears"-- Another Parton initial, reflecting the heartbreak and discomfort that can feature a stopped working relationship.
8. "Silver Dagger"-- A conventional folk tune, Parton's special vocal delivery adds a new dimension to the haunting tale.
9. "Train, Train"-- Parton covers this Blackfoot rock tune, transforming it into a bluegrass foot-stomper.
10. "I Wonder Where You Are Tonight"-- This traditional country song is offered a bluegrass touch and showcases the pure emotion in Parton's voice.
11. "Will He Be Waiting For Me"-- One of Parton's initial structures that display her songwriting expertise and emotive shipment.
12. "The Grass Is Blue"-- The Grammy-nominated title track and an initial Dolly Parton tune, it uses a metaphor to explain the narrator's heartbreak.
13. "I Am Ready"-- The album closes with this gospel tune that exhibits deep spirituality and connection to Parton's roots.

Tradition and Reception
The Grass Is Blue received prevalent praise from critics and fans alike. The album enabled Dolly Parton to showcase her love and connection to bluegrass music, and it attracted a new generation of fans. The album's success and distinctions, including the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album, strengthened Parton's status as a flexible and enduring artist efficient in transcending genres and periods. The Grass Is Blue works as a testimony to Dolly Parton's undeniable skill and genuine dedication to her musical roots.