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PORTER WAGONER
Country Comeback

AGE 79
WHY HIM Dolly Parton's original mentor and duet partner just celebrated his 50th year as a Grand Ole Opry regular. And thanks to his latest CD, Wagonmaster, he's found a new fan base: indie rockers.

NEXT Tour dates with producer/booster Marty Stuart, on which he'll wear his trademark rhinestone suits. ''When they make something that looks better than that,'' he says, ''I'll buy me one of 'em!''

I'LL RETIRE WHEN... Hell freezes over — despite an abdominal aneurysm that delayed recording. ''I love the music business. It's the only thing I would have done for no money.''