About The Song
“Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” is a country song that tells the story of a woman pleading with another woman named Jolene not to take her man. Here’s an overview:
Background:
- Release: “Jolene” was written and recorded by Dolly Parton and released as the title track of her 1974 album.
- Songwriting: Dolly Parton wrote “Jolene” after observing a red-headed bank teller who flirted with her husband. The character Jolene represents the perceived threat to the singer’s relationship.
- Musical Style: The song features a distinctive acoustic guitar riff and Parton’s emotive vocals, capturing the desperation and vulnerability of the lyrics.
Themes and Lyrics:
- Jealousy and Insecurity: The lyrics express the singer’s feelings of insecurity and jealousy as she confronts the beautiful and alluring Jolene, whom she fears will steal her partner away.
- Vulnerability: The singer’s plea to Jolene reveals her vulnerability and emotional turmoil, as she begs for mercy and expresses her fear of losing the love of her life.
- Empowerment: Despite her vulnerability, the singer displays strength and determination in confronting Jolene and expressing her feelings, asserting her commitment to her partner.
Cultural Impact:
- Chart Success: “Jolene” became one of Dolly Parton’s most successful songs, reaching the top of the country charts and achieving international acclaim.
- Cover Versions: The song has been covered by numerous artists across different genres and has become a staple of Parton’s repertoire, showcasing its enduring popularity and cultural significance.
- Legacy: “Jolene” has been praised for its powerful storytelling, emotional depth, and timeless appeal, earning its place as one of the greatest country songs of all time.
Conclusion:
Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” stands as a classic example of storytelling in country music, capturing the complexities of love, jealousy, and vulnerability in its poignant lyrics and soulful melody. With its universal themes and enduring popularity, “Jolene” continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, solidifying its status as a timeless masterpiece in the country music canon.”
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, JoleneI’m begging of you please don’t take my manJolene, Jolene, Jolene, JolenePlease don’t take him just because you can
Your beauty is beyond compareWith flaming locks of auburn hairWith ivory skin and eyes of emerald greenYour smile is like a breath of springYour voice is soft like summer rainAnd I cannot compete with youJolene
He talks about you in his sleepAnd there’s nothing I can do to keepFrom crying when he calls your nameJolene
And I can easily understandHow you could easily take my manBut you don’t know what he means to meJolene
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, JoleneI’m begging of you please don’t take my manJolene, Jolene, Jolene, JolenePlease don’t take him just because you can
You could have your choice of menBut I could never love againHe’s the only one for meJolene
I had to have this talk with youMy happiness depends on youAnd whatever you decide to doJolene
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, JoleneI’m begging of you please don’t take my manJolene, Jolene, Jolene, JolenePlease don’t take him even though you canJolene, Jolene