About the song
“Jolene” is a quintessential country music ballad written and performed by the iconic American artist Dolly Parton. Recorded at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee on May 22, 1973, the song was released as the lead single from her album of the same name on October 15, 1973, under RCA Victor.
Widely regarded as one of the definitive songs in the country genre, “Jolene” has left an indelible mark on music history. It is recognized for its emotive storytelling, capturing the plea of a woman confronting Jolene, a captivating beauty whom she fears will steal away her lover. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and haunting melody convey the vulnerability and desperation of its narrator, appealing to listeners with its raw emotional depth.
Critically acclaimed, “Jolene” has earned accolades such as its inclusion on Rolling Stone magazine’s prestigious list of “the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” ranking at No. 217 in 2004 and climbing to No. 63 in the revised list in 2021. Additionally, the song received Grammy nominations for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in both 1975 and 1976, reflecting its enduring popularity and influence.
Beyond Parton’s original rendition, “Jolene” has been covered extensively in various languages and musical styles by artists worldwide. Notable interpretations include versions by Olivia Newton-John, The White Stripes, Miley Cyrus, and Måneskin, each bringing their own unique interpretations to the song while honoring its timeless appeal.
In a surprising twist of fate, Pentatonix’s 2016 rendition of “Jolene” won the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance, showcasing the song’s versatility and ability to resonate across different musical genres and audiences.
Parton herself has shared anecdotes about the song’s origins, revealing that “Jolene” was inspired by a red-headed bank teller who once flirted with her husband, Carl Dean. Parton’s ability to weave personal experiences into her music adds a layer of authenticity that resonates deeply with fans. Interestingly, she disclosed during an interview on The Bobby Bones Show in 2018 that she wrote “Jolene” on the same day as her iconic hit “I Will Always Love You,” underscoring the prolific nature of her songwriting prowess.
With its soul-stirring lyrics, evocative melody, and enduring popularity, “Jolene” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying its place not only in country music history but in the broader cultural landscape as a timeless classic that transcends generations.
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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
And 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