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, Jolene
I’m begging of you please don’t take my man Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene Please don’t take him just because you canYour 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 JoleneHe talks about you in his sleep
And there’s nothing I can do to keep From crying when he calls your name JoleneAnd I can easily understand
How you could easily take my man But you don’t know what he means to me JoleneJolene, 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 canYou could have your choice of men
But I could never love again He’s the only one for me JoleneI had to have this talk with you
My happiness depends on you And whatever you decide to do JoleneJolene, 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
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