Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” released in 1973, is a country music classic that has captivated audiences with its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics. Written and performed by Parton, the song tells the story of a woman pleading with another to stay away from her man, capturing the vulnerability and desperation that comes with the fear of losing a loved one.
About The Song
“Jolene” is built around a simple yet compelling guitar riff, and Parton’s emotive vocals bring the narrative to life with a mix of strength and pleading. The song’s title character, Jolene, is depicted as a beautiful and almost mythical figure, whose allure poses a real threat to the protagonist’s relationship. This vivid storytelling, combined with Parton’s soulful delivery, has made “Jolene” one of her most enduring and widely recognized hits.
The song’s universal themes of love, jealousy, and insecurity have resonated with listeners for decades, transcending the boundaries of country music to become a cultural touchstone. Over the years, “Jolene” has been covered by countless artists across various genres, further cementing its status as a timeless piece of American music history.
As we reflect on “Jolene,” we celebrate Dolly Parton’s extraordinary talent as a songwriter and performer. The song remains a powerful testament to her ability to convey deep emotion through music, making it a beloved favorite for generations of fans around the world.
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Lyric
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