Throwback Thursday: Dolly Parton – “Jolene” (Live)
This is a story about a bank teller who kept flirting with a newly married man. The year was 1966 and the newly married man was Carl Dean, husband to Dolly Parton. The flirtation would inspire one of Dolly’s biggest hits and one of the greatest country songs ever made, “Jolene.”
As Ms. Parton tells is, the flirting happened in the early days of her marriage and before she had released any music — her debut album would drop in ’67. She describes the teller as a redhead, but says the name “Jolene” was actually inspired by a young fan who came onstage for an autograph at one of her concerts.
Though Dolly begs Jolene to not take her man on the song, Carl was clearly there to stay. The couple is still married and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by renewing their vows. Jolene could never.
For as interesting as the background of “Jolene” is, the most fun fact about it is that it was written the same day Dolly wrote “I Will Always Love You.” Talk about a goated pen.
Dolly Parton turns 77 years old today. Join me in celebrating this absolute legend.
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