Dolly Parton was a musician, actor, author, philanthropist, and theme-park entrepreneur. Parton passed away Tuesday at age 80, leaving a significant imprint on global culture. Her larger-than-life persona also reflected in her songwriting. She began building her legacy as a songwriter, a craft central to her success.
READ MORE: Dolly Parton, beloved music star, actor and philanthropist, dies at 80
Choosing standout songs from her extensive discography might seem daunting, yet several classics resonate strongly. Here is a selection of songs spanning decades, emphasizing her progressive themes and storytelling prowess.
1968: “Just Because I’m a Woman”
Parton’s music often highlighted feminist themes, aligning with the women’s liberation movement. In “Just Because I’m a Woman,” she challenges her partner not to judge her past relationships, reminding him of his own past. Inspired by a conversation with her husband, Carl Dean, she affirms “My mistakes are no worse than yours.”
1971: “Coat of Many Colors”
“Coat of Many Colors” exemplifies Parton’s storytelling. This autobiographical piece recounts her mother’s creation of a coat made from rags. Despite being mocked, she cherishes its value, singing, “Now I know we had no money, but I was rich as I could be.”
1973: “Jolene”
“Jolene,” inspired by Dean, is a renowned hit in country music. The song narrates a story about a flirtatious bank teller infatuated with Dean. Parton playfully recounts how her husband enjoyed the extra attention, making it a humorous yet innocent piece, despite its dramatic tone.
1974: “I Will Always Love You”
Originally released by Parton, “I Will Always Love You” gained widespread recognition through Whitney Houston’s rendition for “The Bodyguard” soundtrack. Inspired by Parton’s departure from “The Porter Wagoner Show,” Houston’s version remained at the top of Billboard Hot 100 for 14 weeks.
1977: “Here You Come Again”
Although Parton’s songwriting is prolific, “Here You Come Again” stands out as an exception. Crafted by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, it first appeared with B.J. Thomas, and became a significant pop crossover hit for Parton. Her insistence on featuring steel guitar highlighted her country roots.
1980: “9 to 5”
Written for the film “9 to 5,” Parton compromised by included in her album “9 to 5 and Odd Jobs” promoted women’s workplace empowerment, advocated for pay equality, and earned Parton her first Oscar nomination. Initially conceived with acrylic nails clacking to mimic a typewriter, the song bolstered her Hollywood debut alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin.
1983: “Islands in the Stream,” with Kenny Rogers
During the 1980s, Parton attained celebrity status. Her collaboration with Kenny Rogers on “Islands in the Stream” emphasized her vocal harmony skills. Originally intended for Diana Ross or Marvin Gaye by the Bee Gees, the partnership with Rogers resulted in a new classic, showcasing the link between R&B and country music.
1989: “Why’d You Come in Here Lookin’ Like That”
Parton’s return to country music with “White Limozeen” included “Why’d You Come in Here Lookin’ Like That,” a song boldly critiquing a man’s appearance. Detouring from ’80s pop, this track emphasized her playful commentary while featuring instruments like Pedabro and fiddle from Ricky Skaggs.
1999: “The Grass Is Blue”
Recording “The Grass Is Blue” in 30 minutes during “Blue Valley Songbird,” Parton showcases an authentic, emotional scratch vocal. Capturing raw pain, she sings about survival amidst adversity, reflecting blues and bluegrass influences.
2001: “Little Sparrow”
During the ’90s, Parton’s popularity dipped as new pop-country styles emerged. Yet her roots-centric pivot culminated in albums like “Little Sparrow.” With mournful harmonies devoted to her late father, this album reflects her vocal mastery and cultural dedication.
2014: “Blue Smoke”
“Blue Smoke” narrates Parton’s nostalgic childhood in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The song evokes vibrant memories, featuring “Blue Smoke rolling” and celebrating her roots with vivid imagery and spirit, underscoring her narrative prowess.
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