Jolene
“Jolene” is a 1973 song written and recorded by Dolly Parton. Its narrator pleads with a beautiful woman not to take her partner.
Dolly Parton: Dolly Parton is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and actor known for country music and songwriting. She wrote and recorded “Jolene,” shaping its intimate first-person voice.
1973 in music: 1973 in music includes notable recordings, performances, and developments in music during that year. Parton wrote and released “Jolene” during this year.
Olivia Newton-John: Olivia Newton-John was an English-Australian singer and actor whose recordings crossed country and pop music. Her 1976 recording made “Jolene” part of her country-pop repertoire.
You Can Have Him, Jolene: “You Can Have Him, Jolene” is a 2021 Chapel Hart song responding to Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.” It reverses the original plea by having the narrator offer the partner to Jolene.
Country music: Country music is a popular music tradition associated with American folk, blues, and rural musical styles. The song’s storytelling and vocal phrasing draw on country music conventions.
Dolly Parton discography: Dolly Parton’s discography comprises her recorded albums, singles, and other releases. “Jolene” became the title track and lead single from her 1974 album.
The White Stripes: The White Stripes were an American rock duo comprising Jack White and Meg White. Their live performances recast the song through a stark rock arrangement.
Jolene (Beyoncé song): “Jolene” is a 2024 Beyoncé recording that reworks Dolly Parton’s song for the album Cowboy Carter. Its altered lyrics turn Parton’s supplication into a more defiant warning.
Song form: Song form is the organization of a song into sections such as verses, choruses, and bridges. Its repeated refrain gives the narrator’s plea a memorable, escalating shape.
Jolene (album): Jolene is Dolly Parton’s 1974 studio album, featuring its 1973 hit title track. The song introduced an album that also included “I Will Always Love You.”