Nigeria, Sept. 3 -- Dolly Parton was simply a singer, a country musician; she was a force of nature that held her own niche against the most formidable of stars. At 80, she had lived a most meaningful and significant life. And that significance will be measured in the imprint her life, and most importantly her music, have left in the lives of millions all across the world. She was not a musician who was constrained by the limitations of country music, compared to, say, hip-hop or rap in the American music scene. Dolly Parton had a space of influence that reached far and wide.

The root of country music provides the beginning reflection about the depth of connection anyone could have with a country musician and the contents of her songs. ...