Country music legend Dolly Parton recently revealed her contribution to Beyoncé’s country album Cowboy Carter, providing a spoken-word intro to the song “Jolene.” In the intro, Parton references Beyoncé’s lyrics from the song “Sorry,” mentioning a character with “good hair” and drawing parallels between the two songs. “Jolene,” originally released in 1973, tells the story of a woman pleading with another woman not to take her man, inspired by a real-life encounter between Parton and a flirty bank clerk early in her marriage to Carl Thomas Dean.
Parton had initially hinted at her involvement in Cowboy Carter, suggesting that Beyoncé had covered “Jolene” for the album. The country star expressed excitement about Beyoncé’s version of the song and praised her as a talented singer. Parton revealed that she and Beyoncé had exchanged messages over the years, with Beyoncé and her mother being fans of Parton’s work. Parton also defended Beyoncé’s decision to release a country album, emphasizing that Beyoncé is a Texas native and suggesting that artists should be able to explore different genres.
In addition to Parton’s cameo on Cowboy Carter, the album features appearances from other music legends such as Willie Nelson and Linda Martell. Both Nelson and Martell provide spoken-word intros on the album, adding their own unique touches to the project. Martell, in particular, made history as the first Black woman to perform at the Grand Ole Opry in 1970, marking a significant milestone in country music history. Cowboy Carter is now available for fans to enjoy, showcasing a blend of musical styles and influences from various artists.
The collaboration between Parton and Beyoncé on Cowboy Carter has generated excitement among fans of both artists, offering a fresh take on country music with a modern twist. Parton’s signature storytelling style and Beyoncé’s powerful vocals combine to create a memorable version of “Jolene” that pays tribute to the original while adding new elements. The inclusion of other music legends on the album adds to the richness and diversity of the project, highlighting the influence of different voices in country music.
With its mix of traditional and contemporary sounds, Cowboy Carter reflects the evolution of country music and the contributions of artists from diverse backgrounds. Parton’s involvement in the album, along with the support and praise from fellow musicians, underscores the universal appeal of music and the ability of artists to transcend genre boundaries. As the album continues to make waves across charts and platforms, it serves as a testament to the enduring impact of musical collaborations and the power of storytelling in connecting audiences worldwide.
