BACK in the very early Eighties, while on tour in America for the first time, I happened to mention on some chat show that I was a huge fan of Dolly Parton.

The next day I was getting prepared for a live show and I asked the hotel operator to block all calls. The phone rang while I was in the bath and I hollered: "I said no calls," in true Joan Crawford fashion. "Terribly sorry Mr George," a nervous voice replied, "But we have Dolly Parton on the phone."

I nearly jumped out of my skin. At first I thought it was a prank but I soon realized the Southern twang belonged to Dolly. She had rung to thank me for all the sweet things I had said and offered to introduce me to her seamstress if I needed any rhinestones or beading done.

I didn't take her up on her offer, I was wearing a pretty excessive look already, but I was thrilled to have the chance to chat with such a legend. I got to meet the wonderful Dolly only very recently, while appearing on Chris Evans's TFI show and she was as sweet as pumpkin pie. I had intended to ask her to sing a duet with me but got the jitters and lost my nerve. Well, now I have finally got around to it and, to my surprise, she said yes.

The lovely Miss Parton has agreed to sing on Culture Club's new single, "Your Kisses Are Charity," for its American release later this year. I cannot believe how simple it was. Dolly will go into the studio in Los Angeles tomorrow to record her vocals. She didn't care which studio -

"Any ole one is fine, honey," and there were no special requirements or demands.

Dolly's coolness is exactly the reason she has remained so popular for so long. I have never in all my travels heard anyone speak badly of her and that is a rare thing in rock'n'roll.

More importantly, I can't think of anything on this planet that matches this duet for campness. I shall have to get an especially large beaded Stetson for the occasion. I am now officially a country queen.

June 27, 1999