Introduction
Jolene” is one of Dolly Parton’s most iconic songs, released as a single on October 15, 1973, and later as the title track of her 13th studio album in 1974.
The song narrates a woman’s plea to a beautiful, auburn-haired woman named Jolene, imploring her not to take away her man. This narrative was inspired by real-life events; Parton has shared that the song was influenced by a red-haired bank teller who flirted with her husband, Carl Dean, during their early marriage. The name “Jolene” was inspired by a young fan who approached Parton for an autograph, and upon hearing her name, Parton found it melodious and promised to write a song about it.
Musically, “Jolene” is characterized by its haunting melody and the repetition of the name “Jolene” in the chorus, which emphasizes the narrator’s emotional plea. The song showcases Parton’s storytelling prowess and her ability to convey deep emotion through simple yet powerful lyrics. The guitar parts on the recording were performed by Chip Young and Wayne Moss, with Young playing the primary thumb-picked part and Moss providing the complementary steel-string part that enters on the second refrain.
Upon its release, “Jolene” became Parton’s second solo number-one single on the country charts in the U.S. and also topped charts in Canada. Its popularity extended beyond country music audiences, leading to numerous covers by artists across various genres, including notable versions by The White Stripes and Olivia Newton-John. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its recognition by Rolling Stone magazine, which ranked it No. 63 on its list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” in 2021.
“Jolene” remains a staple in Parton’s performances and continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Its themes of love, insecurity, and vulnerability are universal, contributing to its lasting impact on the music industry. The song’s legacy is further cemented by its influence on popular culture, inspiring various adaptations and interpretations over the decades.
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