Kim Thompson Shares On Her Latest Single, “Dear Dolly”
Alberta-based singer-songwriter, Kim Thompson released her latest single, “Dear Dolly” earlier this year. The single followed the previously released tracks, “Bucket List” and “Hey Cowboy.”
Review
“Dear Dolly” is an enchanting and heartfelt tribute to the iconic country singer, Dolly Parton, and the profound impact she has had on Kim’s life. The song is crafted as a series of heartfelt letters to Dolly, creating a personal and emotional bond with the legendary country music figure.
The chorus, with the lines, “Ohhhh Take me to Dollywood, Make diamonds out of rhinestones, girl, Learn to love more in this world, Take Me To Dollywood,” is not only catchy but also the beating heart of the song. It calls for a journey to Dollywood, not just as a physical place but as a metaphor for finding inspiration, transformation, and embracing a more fulfilling life.
Kim’s vocals are smooth and expressive, portraying the sentiment perfectly throughout the song.
In summary, “Dear Dolly” is a captivating and relatable song, boasting a memorable chorus and touching lyrics that I believe will delight country music fans!
You have unveiled your single, “Dear Dolly.” Tell us a bit about the writing process behind the release.
I wrote a letter to Dolly Parton as I have seen her as a mentor for women growing up in the movies, TV and singing her songs. I had my friend Mackenzie Kristjon from Toronto, Ontario join me once the letter idea was into play to fine-tune the lines as a co-write easily, he has also complimented a few of my recent writes.
You’ve worked with different producers on your singles. How do you approach the creative collaboration with producers, and what do you feel each producer has brought to your music that has contributed to its success?
The variety of producers each has a special touch. Depending on the song feel with each recording, I try to specifically set the song release up for a specific production choice.
“Dear Dolly” seems to be gaining traction on the charts. Can you tell us the inspiration behind this single and what it means to you personally?
Well… I was really hoping to meet Loretta Lynn and I felt that was not accomplished, I only saw her in concert. As that opportunity passed, I felt it was time to step out and ask for Dolly’s help. Perhaps if I write Dolly a song she might hear me! Dolly needs to know she’s appreciated and dares to not only dream big but follow her heart. I only hope like her I love life to the fullest. Dolly always has the best stories.
You’ve performed in various settings, from arenas to ranch houses. What’s your favorite type of venue to perform in, and why?
Mmm, yeah, I do like singing the Canadian anthem at events such as hockey for the Okotoks Oilers AJHL and Highriver Canadian pro-rodeo. Performing at Rachmans in Calgary and corporate Calgary Stampede is always fun! I like singing the anthems cause my voice is crystal clear and gives me an athletic and patriotic pride in that tingle feeling a good way. The Ranchmans and corporate events can draw a big crowd who likes to dance and it’s sweet to be lit in lights and staged well.
Singing the anthem while riding a horse sounds unique and exciting. Can you share more about this experience?
During barrel racing and Pro Rodeo anthems I began to sing when asked while barrel racing. I saw it as a challenge!
Some horses don’t mind but the energy of the horse is cool when ya sing!! Haha, they like to feel the vibration too. It was a challenge and so I wanted to continue the request and be good at it. I often ride with a flag still to practice and sing while riding, as I was a flag girl prior to rodeo and it’s all great practice.
With several chart-topping singles already under your belt, what can fans and listeners look forward to from you in the near future?
Ohh, I’m trying to release two more songs next year and an album. Maybe a cover or two. My original songs are ready.
Being an Alberta native, how have your hometown and Canadian roots influenced your music and songwriting?
I grew up singing in the one-room pop-up studios for 25$. Haha. I promised myself for years, that I would record with the best producers if I could save enough one day to tell my own song stories.
Calgary Stampede has always been a favorite, I worked there and rode my horses on the grounds. I have hosted at Calgary Stampede a barrel race with added money. Ranchmans has always been family to me in rodeo sponsorship, music, songwriting, rodeo dinners, and events.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting their musical journey, based on your own experiences and successes?
Keep going…. music is not easy for all! Don’t give up your dreams on one song, it will be persistence that’s endured for all artists. The best of the best worked at it. Radio is where it’s at! I like to get to know the radio hosts that play our music. Touring and meeting hosts and people behind radio stations is fun for me.
Finally, what message or feeling do you hope your listeners take away from your music, especially those who may be hearing it for the first time?
I hope to see you down the road !! Rodeo, hockey, and eventing. I hope to play for charity and pop into some festivals all I can to sing the new songs coming up here soon, in 2024 with the album. Chin up heels down:)