Nebraskan country artist reflects on Dolly Parton’s legacy

RAYMOND, Neb. (KLKN) – Brent Monnier was born and raised in the village of Raymond, Nebraska but moved to Nashville to chase his dreams of making it in country music.

A dream that Dolly Parton knew well.

Monnier is now back in Nebraska and says Parton’s legacy inspires him to keep going.

“She had a great impact,” he said. “She was such a good songwriter and it’s about the story. It’s about putting the lyrics down and then having the music to back it.”

After winning several radio competitions and giving life in Nashville a go, Monnier says music comes down to your story.

He pointed out how Parton’s song, ‘Coat of many Colors’, illustrates her simple upbringing and the ingenious ways her mom provided for them.

Parton’s country roots, much like his own, can be seen in most of her songs, but the respect she had transcended many genres due to her authenticity.

Although the news of her passing is painful, Monnier says Parton’s impact will always live on; also, through himself as he passes down what he’s learned to new artists.

“Just be yourself, put yourself out there. There’ll be several, several singers that will always be covering her songs. Those will never go away. Songs can last for a decade, but her songs will last for several decades,” he said.

“She was just a very kind-hearted person as well. She had Dollywood. She obviously cared about people and that’s what people will remember.”

Brent says he’ll never stop making music no matter where it takes him.

His ultimate goal is to open for Garth Brooks at the Grand Old Opry; to perform a song he wrote for his childhood friend who passed away and also treasured country music.

If you would like to check out Monnier’s music, you can visit his YouTube page.