About the song
Few songs resonate as deeply as Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.” Released in 1973, this country music masterpiece transcends genre, captivating listeners with its poignant lyrics and relatable story.
The song paints a vivid picture of a woman pleading with another named Jolene. Jolene is portrayed as a stunning beauty, and the narrator fears she’ll steal away the narrator’s love. Parton’s powerful vocals deliver the plea “Jolene, Jolene, please don’t take him just because you can,” etching the song’s core conflict into the listener’s mind.
“Jolene” is more than just a jealous lament, however. It delves into themes of insecurity and vulnerability, emotions that resonate universally. The song’s ambiguity regarding Jolene’s intentions adds another layer of intrigue. Is she truly a threat, or is the narrator projecting her own insecurities? This ambiguity has fueled countless interpretations and answer songs, keeping the conversation around “Jolene” alive for decades.
The song’s impact isn’t limited to the music world. “Jolene” has become a cultural touchstone, referenced in movies, television shows, and even government advisories during the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a testament to the song’s enduring power and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Critically acclaimed, “Jolene” has secured its place in musical history. Rolling Stone ranked it among the greatest country songs of all time, and countless artists have covered it, from country legends like Olivia Newton-John to contemporary acts like Pentatonix (whose cover featuring Parton herself won a Grammy Award).
“Jolene” is a timeless ballad that transcends genre and generation. It’s a song of love, loss, and the complexities of human emotions, a masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
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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