Dolly Parton – Jolene (1974)

About the song

“Jolene” is one of Dolly Parton’s most iconic songs, released in 1974 as the title track of her album *Jolene*. This song not only showcases Parton’s unique vocal talents but also highlights her storytelling ability, which has resonated with audiences for decades. The song quickly became a hit, reaching No. 1 on the country charts and crossing over to mainstream audiences, further cementing Dolly Parton’s status as one of the leading voices in country music.

The song’s narrative is simple yet powerful. It tells the story of a woman pleading with another to not take away her man. The name “Jolene” is repeated throughout the song, with Parton’s voice conveying a mixture of vulnerability, desperation, and a touch of admiration for this other woman, who is described as being incredibly beautiful. The haunting melody and the emotional depth in Parton’s delivery make the listener feel the weight of the protagonist’s fear and sorrow.

Parton has mentioned in interviews that the inspiration for “Jolene” came from a real-life experience. The name was inspired by a young fan who once asked for her autograph. The red-haired bank teller who was getting too friendly with Parton’s husband, Carl Dean, provided the rest of the story. Rather than confront the woman, Parton turned her feelings of jealousy and insecurity into a timeless song. This personal connection to the song adds an extra layer of authenticity and emotion, which has helped it endure through the years.

Musically, “Jolene” stands out for its simplicity. The arrangement is stripped down, with a steady, driving rhythm and a melody that sticks with you long after the song is over. Parton’s voice, clear and poignant, takes center stage, drawing the listener into the story she is telling. The repetitive use of the name “Jolene” adds to the song’s hypnotic quality, making it both memorable and haunting.

Over the years, “Jolene” has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, from The White Stripes to Miley Cyrus, each bringing their own interpretation while still honoring the original. The song’s universal theme of love, fear, and jealousy continues to resonate, making it one of the most covered songs in music history.

Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” is more than just a country song; it is a piece of American music history. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Parton’s songwriting genius and her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. Even after all these years, “Jolene” remains a powerful and poignant reminder of the complexities of love and the human experience.

Video

Lyrics

Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m begging of you please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him just because you can

Your beauty is beyond compare
With flaming locks of auburn hair
With ivory skin and eyes of emerald green

Your smile is like a breath of spring
Your voice is soft like summer rain
And I cannot compete with you, Jolene

He talks about you in his sleep
There’s nothing I can do to keep
From crying when he calls your name, Jolene

And I can easily understand
How you could easily take my man
But you don’t know what he means to me, Jolene

Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m begging of you please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him just because you can

You could have your choice of men
But I could never love again
He’s the only one for me, Jolene

I had to have this talk with you
My happiness depends on you
And whatever you decide to do, Jolene

Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m begging of you please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him even though you can

Jolene, Jolene