What is the reason for your appearance here resembling such? (1989)
Some of Dolly Parton’s songs evoke strong emotion, while others cater to her glamorous persona. “Why’d You Come in Here…” falls into the latter group, as it is filled with desire, humor, and infectious energy that exudes campiness.
19. Just Someone I Used to Know (1969)
It is commonly believed that Parton’s success peaked after she ended her duet with Porter Wagoner. While this may be true, they actually produced some incredible music together, including the heartfelt song “Just Someone I Used to Know” which reflects on the enduring sadness of a former couple after their breakup.
18. Tennessee Homesick Blues (1984)
The film Rhinestone, starring Parton and Stallone, was a major failure in both reviews and box office numbers. However, the song featured in the film managed to come out unscathed, with a title referencing Bob Dylan and lyrics that yearn to escape New York City. The sound of the song combines Parton’s Appalachian background, including moments of yodelling, with the polished production.
17. Backwoods Barbie (2008)
Effectively a redux of Parton’s 1967 solo mission-statement Dumb Blonde, Backwoods Barbie is melodically one of her most charming contemporary songs, and lyrically among the sharpest: “Too much makeup, too much hair / Don’t be fooled by thinkin’ that the goods are not all there.”
16. Wildflowers (1987)
Trio, the debut album by Parton in collaboration with Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt, features a prominent use of autoharp and a nostalgic Appalachian sound. The flawless harmonies and ambiguous lyrics contemplate the consequences of abandoning one’s hometown for freedom, showcasing both remorse and resilience.
15. Two Doors Down (1977)
Two Doors Down was originally a simple pop-country song on the Here You Come Again record. However, when Zella Lehr covered it, the song became a popular single. Parton then transformed her original version into a unique and surprisingly enjoyable mix of country, soul, and disco. Whichever version you prefer, both are undeniably lively and upbeat.
14. The Seeker (1975)
Parton’s most popular Christian song is The Seeker. What makes it so great is the contrast between the upbeat rhythm and melody and the desperate spiritual tone of the lyrics. The singer expresses feelings of emptiness and being lost, but also turns to faith as their only hope.
This recording, titled “To Daddy,” was made in 1976 and was officially released in 1995.
The disagreement between Parton and Wagoner was sparked by his disapproval of its subtle message promoting women to leave unhappy marriages, but it was later covered by Emmylou Harris. “To Daddy” showcases Parton’s talent for storytelling, with a surprising twist and a powerful message revealed in the final verse that shifts the song’s tone from endurance to freedom.
The song “Love Is Like a Butterfly” was released in 1974.
It may be difficult for older British viewers to hear this song without immediately recalling Wendy Craig’s character struggling with infidelity in the TV show Butterflies by Carla Lane. Love Is Like a Butterfly was Dolly Parton’s first chart-topping hit after her separation from Porter Wagoner, and it’s easy to see why. The delicate arrangement perfectly complements the charming melody.
11. Just Because I’m a Woman (1968)
In the beginning, Dolly expresses a strong and confident attitude. While she may have behaved poorly, so has he, so don’t judge her. Her powerful words include: “Don’t pity yourself when you see me / Consider the shame you may have caused someone else.” That’s gotta hurt!
10. Little Sparrow (2001)
Parton’s album, The Grass Is Blue, received positive feedback for its bluegrass sound. Its successor may be even more impressive. The title song, a reinterpretation of the traditional Appalachian folk song “Come All You Fair and Tender Ladies,” is emotionally stirring and has an eerie quality due to its dry and minimalistic sound.
9. 9 to 5 (1980)
The beat of 9 to 5, mimicking Parton’s tapping of her fingernails on her guitar, may be the epitome of her “pop” era, but it remains a country song at its core. The words pay homage to oppressed employees and could easily be performed with a simpler arrangement of acoustic guitar and pedal steel.
8. My Tennessee Mountain Home (1973)
The magnificent lead song from a themed album inspired by Parton’s early life, My Tennessee Mountain Home focuses more on honoring the humble lifestyle rather than portraying the hardships of her upbringing (compared to In the Good Old Days (When Times Were Bad)). The tone of the melody reflects this, starting off minimalistic and gradually becoming joyfully uplifting.
The album titled “Here You Come Again” was released in 1977.
It was expected that Parton would transition into pop music, considering her first single, 1965’s Busy Signal, had elements of both 60s girl group and country sounds. However, her ability to do so seamlessly is impressive. Here You Come Again is a charming blend of soft rock and pop.
6. The Bargain Store (1975)
Dolly Parton is known for her numerous talents, including her skill as a songwriter. This is evident in her use of an extended metaphor in “The Bargain Store,” where she compares herself to a secondhand shop. Despite the repetitive nature of the metaphor, it never becomes tiresome or excessive; instead, it is clever and deeply touching.
5. Down from Dover (1970)
The portrayal of a deserted single mother giving birth to a stillborn baby in “Down from Dover” caused controversy. Wagoner advised Parton not to release it, to which she jokingly responded, “I can’t get any more depressing, can I?” Despite its heavy themes, the song is poignant rather than overly sentimental.
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4. Islands in the Stream (1983)
The Bee Gees originally intended Islands in the Stream to be a duet in the style of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, influenced by Motown. However, when Parton and the late Kenny Rogers recorded it, the song took on a new life: the lyrics, written by the Gibb brothers, are incredibly strong and enduring, but it is the heartfelt vocals that truly make it shine.
I will forever adore you (1974).
Whitney Houston’s globe-swallowing version remains the biggest-selling US single by a female artist, but Parton’s original is something else: smaller, more personal – it was a regretful but resolute farewell to Wagoner, whose star she had long eclipsed – and, if you prefer your emotions relatable, rather than blockbuster-sized – more affecting.
2. Coat of Many Colours (1971)
This powerful Parton classic tells a true story of a mother’s love and sacrifice. Despite their poverty, she creates a winter coat for her daughter Dolly from scraps of colorful fabric, all while teaching her the lesson of Joseph’s coat of many colors from the Bible. Dolly faces teasing at school, but she endures it with strength and resilience. The moral of the story: one’s financial status is a choice, not a destiny.
1. Jolene (1973)
While Jolene may not surpass the quality of other songs in Parton’s catalogue, it is undeniably her most well-known track. It has inspired numerous cover versions from a variety of artists, ranging from the White Stripes to Lil Nas X, as well as several response records. Many attribute its popularity to the relatable emotions expressed in the lyrics – a mix of desperate pleading and passive aggression – or to the unique melody, which somehow conveys both urgency and a sense of ease. Additionally, its simplicity – with a stripped-down arrangement, live vibe, and lack of a bridge or middle eight – allows for a powerful emotional impact.
Source: theguardian.com
