Why Dolly Parton Loved Beyoncé’s “Jolene” Even If Some Fans Didn’t

Dolly Parton's classic 1973 song "Jolene" got a big transformation in 2024 when Beyoncé put her own divisive take on her album Cowboy Carter.

Why Country Music Fans are Divided on Beyoncé's "Jolene" Cover

A lot of country music fans did not like the new lyrics and sound, but Dolly Parton herself loved what Beyoncé did. In an interview with People Magazine she said, "Hers was more like, 'Well, you're not getting him, you're not taking him, you're going to go through me to get him.' Mine was more like, 'Please don't take him!'"

Dolly's Approval: A Different "Jolene"

Some fans who prefer traditional country music did not like this change, but Dolly did. In the interview, Dolly said she was simply honored that Beyoncé "did a completely different take on 'Jolene' than my version of it."

Honored by a "Magnificent Artist"

Dolly said Beyoncé is a "magnificent artist" and she is proud to be part of the Cowboy Carter album. Dolly even appears on the album twice just in case you needed anymore evidence of her appreciation for Beyoncé.

Dolly's Stamp of Approval on Cowboy Carter

In one instance, she provides a spoken word track called "Dolly P" pretending to be a radio DJ introducing songs in her famous Southern accent. She introduces the song “Tyrant,” further solidifying her approval of Beyoncé's contribution to country music.

A History of Celebrating Evolution

As a seasoned artist, Dolly Parton is used to her music being updated and being done different ways by other artists. For example, Dolly supported Whitney Houston's powerful version of "I Will Always Love You" for The Bodyguard movie well. That song became one of the biggest hits of all time.

True Professionalism: Empowering Women in Art

As always, Dolly remains a true professional. Whether it is Whitney Houston in the 90s, or Beyoncé today, Dolly celebrates strong women taking inspiration from the art of their predecessors and making it their own.

While fans might argue about the words, inevitably music changes and grows, and Dolly is pleased to be able to see that happen, even if Jolene is being warned instead being begged.