1980:
- Parton released her album "Dolly, Dolly, Dolly," which included the hit single "Starting Over Again."
- She also appeared in the film "9 to 5," which featured the hit song "9 to 5" co-written and performed by Parton. The song became a massive success and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
1981:
- Parton released the album "Heartbreaker," which included the title track, which became a top-10 hit on the country charts.
1982:
- She released the album "Burlap & Satin," featuring the hit single "Heartbreak Express."
- Parton also starred in the movie "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas," which featured the soundtrack song "I Will Always Love You," one of her most famous and iconic songs.
1983:
- Parton released the album "The Great Pretender," which included a cover version of the Platters' classic song "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes."
1984:
- She released the album "Rhinestone," which featured the hit single "Tennessee Homesick Blues."
1985:
- Parton released the album "Real Love," which included the title track, which became a top-10 hit on the country charts.
1987:
- She released the album "Rainbow," featuring the hit singles "I Will Always Love You" (a re-release) and "Real Love."
1988:
- Parton starred in the film "Steel Magnolias," where she played the role of Truvy Jones and wrote the original soundtrack song "Steel Magnolias."
1989:
- She released the album "White Limozeen," which included the title track, a duet with country singer Ricky Van Shelton.
Throughout the 1980s, Dolly Parton continued to be one of the most successful and influential female country music artists, with her songs and albums achieving commercial success and critical acclaim.