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Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” was inspired by two different people.
The legendary country star shared the story behind her timeless ‘70s hit in a conversation with Belles, a rising artist who continues the story in an upcoming collaboration with Parton, “Son of Jolene.” Belles shared a clip of Parton’s story behind the song on Instagram on Tuesday (April 14), reflecting on the “incredible moment listening to [Dolly Parton] share the story behind writing ‘Jolene.’”
“Jolene was two different people for me,” Parton said. “When I met a little girl years ago, and her name was Jolene, she asked me to sign (something for her). I said, ‘I bet you’re named after your dad. I bet your dad’s name is Joe.’ And she said, ‘no, it’s just Jolene.’ And I said, ‘I love that name.’ …I said, ‘I’m gonna write a song about you one day,’ just because I love that name. And so, I had a reason to write a song. I changed the name of the real girl. So, when I was on my way from the stage to my bus, I kept singing, ‘Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene,’ just so I wouldn’t forget until I wrote it down. …I guess we both have our own Jolene story.”
Belles’ “Son of Jolene” is “a clever, character-driven continuation of the classic story, imagining a chance encounter years later with Jolene’s son. Blending vivid storytelling with a modern country edge, the song honors the spirit of the original track while introducing a fresh perspective,” states a press release issued earlier this year. The rising country star’s collaboration with Parton will follow her self-titled EP, and will make its debut ahead of Belles’ first full studio album.
“I grew up so inspired by Dolly and the worlds she created through her songs,” Belles previously said in a statement. “Having her lend her voice to this record is beyond anything I could have imagined. It feels like a full-circle moment and a true honor.”
“Son of Jolene” will release on Friday, April 17.