Jolene Apr 2026

It reached the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in February 1974.

According to Dolly Parton, the song was born from two distinct real-life encounters:

The song earned two Grammy nominations for Best Female Country Vocal Performance (1974 and 1975). jolene

The story of a woman pleading with a rival was sparked by a red-headed bank teller who flirted with Parton's husband, Carl Dean, early in their marriage. Parton has jokingly noted that while the song sounds "dreadful," it was based on an innocent running joke between her and her husband. Chart Performance and Recognition

Dolly Parton's "Jolene," released in , is one of the most celebrated and covered songs in music history. This haunting ballad, written and recorded at RCA Studio B in Nashville, serves as the title track of her thirteenth solo album. The Real-Life Inspiration It reached the top of the Billboard Hot

The name and physical description—"flaming locks of auburn hair" and "eyes of emerald green"—were inspired by a young fan named Jolene who asked for an autograph at a concert.

"Jolene" became a massive success, solidifying Parton's status as a crossover star: Parton has jokingly noted that while the song

Parton famously wrote "Jolene" on the same day as her other legendary hit, "I Will Always Love You". Notable Covers