Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton Singing ‘Jolene’

About the song

Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton singing “Jolene.” While Dolly’s original 1973 recording is, of course, the definitive version, hearing her perform it alongside her goddaughter, Miley, offers a fascinating blend of reverence for tradition and a touch of contemporary flair.

“Jolene” itself is a masterclass in songwriting, a raw, desperate plea from one woman to another, begging her not to take her man simply because she can. It’s a tale of insecurity, jealousy, and the palpable fear of losing everything to a rival’s undeniable beauty. “Your beauty is beyond compare / With flaming locks of auburn hair,” Dolly famously sings, laying bare the profound vulnerability of the narrator. This timeless narrative of love, fear, and human frailty resonates across generations, making it a song that speaks to anyone who has ever felt threatened in a relationship.

When Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton perform “Jolene” together, often seen at events like Dolly’s New Year’s Eve special or on “The Voice,” it’s more than just a duet; it’s a passing of the torch, a testament to their unique familial bond, and a showcase of how a classic song can be reinterpreted without losing its soul. Miley, who has never shied away from embracing her country roots despite her pop superstardom, brings a powerful, almost gritty edge to her vocal performance. She respects the song’s original pathos but infuses it with her own contemporary raw emotion. Her voice, with its impressive range and power, adds a compelling dynamic to the familiar melody.

Then, there’s Dolly Parton herself, whose crystalline voice, though seasoned by decades, remains as pure and heartbreaking as ever. When she sings “Jolene,” it’s with the authority of the song’s creator, imbuing every word with its original intent and a lifetime of understanding. The interplay between Miley’s more modern, robust delivery and Dolly’s classic, heartfelt precision is what makes their joint performance so captivating. They blend their unique timbres, creating harmonies that are both rich and poignant, honoring the song’s emotional core while offering a fresh perspective.

Ultimately, Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton singing “Jolene” is a beautiful demonstration of enduring artistry and the timeless power of a truly great song. It’s a reminder that while styles may evolve, the universal themes of the human heart remain constant, and when sung by voices as genuine and iconic as these, they continue to move us deeply. It’s a joy to witness such a meaningful collaboration between these two remarkable artists.

Video

Lyrics

Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Oh, I’m begging of you please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him even though 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 skin is soft like summer rain
And I can not compete with you, Jolene

And I could easily understand
How you could easily take my man
But you don’t know what he means to me, Jolene

He talks about you in his sleep
There’s nothing I can do to keep
From crying, when he calls your name, Jolene, Jolene

Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him even though you can
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him even though you can

I had to have this talk with you
My happiness depends on you
And whatever you decide to do, Jolene

And you could have your choice of men
But I could never love again
Cause he’s the only one for me, Jolene, Jolene

Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Oh, 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…