Dolly Parton is one of the most influential and beloved country music icons of all time. Over her career spanning several decades, she has written and recorded numerous chart-topping hits that have become timeless classics. With her unmistakable voice and signature style, Dolly has become a cultural icon and a role model for many.
In this article, we will take a look at the 10 best Dolly Parton songs of all time. From her early hits to her more recent releases, we will explore the songs that have defined Dolly’s career and made her an enduring figure in country music. We’ll examine the stories behind the songs, their impact on Dolly’s life and career, and their enduring popularity with fans.
Whether you’re a die-hard Dolly fan or simply appreciate good country music, this article is for you. We’ll take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of Dolly’s greatest hits, from the emotional ballads to the upbeat anthems. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive into the 10 best Dolly Parton songs of all time.
1. “I Will Always Love You”
“I Will Always Love You” is a timeless classic written and originally recorded by Dolly Parton in 1974. The song gained worldwide fame when Whitney Houston’s cover of it was featured in the 1992 film “The Bodyguard.” Houston’s powerful rendition of the song became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and winning numerous awards. The song’s poignant lyrics, combined with Houston’s emotional delivery and the iconic melody, make it a beloved ballad that has stood the test of time. “I Will Always Love You” is a song that tugs at the heartstrings and reminds us of the enduring power of love.
2. “9 to 5”
“9 to 5” is an upbeat and empowering song written and performed by Dolly Parton. It was released in 1980 as the title track to the hit comedy film of the same name, in which Dolly also starred. The song’s catchy melody and lyrics describe the frustrations of working a 9-to-5 job and the desire for a better life. Its iconic chorus, “Working 9 to 5, what a way to make a living,” has become a cultural reference and an anthem for the working class. “9 to 5” remains a beloved and influential song, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of working people everywhere.
3. “Coat of Many Colors”
“Coat of Many Colors” is a heartfelt and autobiographical song written and performed by Dolly Parton. It was released in 1971 as the second single from her album of the same name. The song tells the story of Dolly’s childhood, growing up poor in rural Tennessee and how her mother stitched together a coat from scraps of fabric to keep her warm. The coat became a symbol of love and resilience, despite their difficult circumstances. The song’s emotional lyrics, combined with Dolly’s tender and sincere delivery, make it a poignant tribute to her humble beginnings and the values of family and community. “Coat of Many Colors” is a timeless classic that has touched the hearts of countless fans around the world.
4. “Jolene”
“Jolene” is a hauntingly beautiful and iconic song written and performed by Dolly Parton. It was released in 1973 as the lead single from her album “Jolene.” The song’s lyrics describe a woman pleading with Jolene, a beautiful red-haired woman, not to steal her husband. The song’s emotional depth and vulnerability, combined with Dolly’s soaring vocals and the hypnotic guitar riff, make it a timeless classic. “Jolene” has been covered by numerous artists and has become one of Dolly’s most popular and enduring songs. Its themes of jealousy, heartbreak, and the power of desire have resonated with fans for decades, making “Jolene” a beloved and influential masterpiece of country music.
5. “Islands in the Stream”
“Islands in the Stream” is a classic duet performed by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. Written by the Bee Gees, the song was released in 1983 and became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The song’s lyrics describe two people who are in love and feel as though they are “islands in the stream” and the only ones who can rely on each other. Dolly and Kenny’s chemistry, combined with the song’s infectious melody and upbeat tempo, make it a timeless classic. “Islands in the Stream” remains one of the most beloved and recognizable duets in music history, showcasing the immense talent and charisma of two legendary artists.
6. “Here You Come Again”
“Here You Come Again” is a catchy and upbeat song performed by Dolly Parton. It was released in 1977 as the title track to her album of the same name. The song’s lyrics describe a woman who has been heartbroken in the past but is willing to take another chance on love when her former lover returns. The song’s infectious melody, combined with Dolly’s signature vocals and the upbeat instrumentation, make it a fun and memorable hit. “Here You Come Again” showcases Dolly’s versatility and ability to appeal to a wide range of audiences with her unique blend of country, pop, and rock influences. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Dolly’s enduring popularity and influence in the music industry.
7. “Two Doors Down”
“Two Doors Down” is a lively and upbeat song performed by Dolly Parton. It was released in 1978 as the second single from her album “Heartbreaker.” The song’s lyrics describe a woman who is heartbroken and decides to go out and have some fun, dancing and drinking with strangers “two doors down” from her ex-lover. The song’s catchy melody, combined with Dolly’s playful vocals and the energetic instrumentation, make it a fun and infectious hit. “Two Doors Down” showcases Dolly’s ability to blend country music with pop influences, creating a unique sound that has made her an enduring figure in the music industry. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Dolly’s talent and charisma as a performer.
8. “It’s All Wrong, But It’s All Right”
“It’s All Wrong, But It’s All Right” is a soulful and melancholic song performed by Dolly Parton. It was released in 1978 as the lead single from her album “Heartbreaker.” The song’s lyrics describe a woman who is torn between her love for a man and her sense of duty to her family, acknowledging that their relationship is not right but continuing to stay with him anyway. The song’s emotional depth, combined with Dolly’s raw and vulnerable vocals and the subtle instrumentation, make it a powerful and evocative ballad. “It’s All Wrong, But It’s All Right” showcases Dolly’s talent as a storyteller and her ability to convey complex emotions through her music. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Dolly’s enduring influence in the country music genre.
9. “But You Know I Love You”
“But You Know I Love You” is a tender and heartfelt song performed by Dolly Parton. It was released in 1981 as the second single from her album “9 to 5 and Odd Jobs.” The song’s lyrics describe a woman who is apologizing to her lover for her mistakes but assuring him that her love for him is real and enduring. The song’s emotional sincerity, combined with Dolly’s gentle and expressive vocals and the gentle instrumentation, make it a poignant and beautiful ballad. “But You Know I Love You” showcases Dolly’s ability to convey deep emotions through her music and her talent as a songwriter. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Dolly’s enduring popularity and influence in the country music genre.
10. “Why’d You Come in Here Looking Like That”
“Why’d You Come in Here Looking Like That” is a playful and upbeat song performed by Dolly Parton. It was released in 1989 as the lead single from her album “White Limozeen.” The song’s lyrics describe a woman who is caught off guard by a man who has come into the bar looking handsome and charming, despite her intention to avoid getting involved with anyone. The song’s catchy melody, combined with Dolly’s sassy and confident vocals and the upbeat instrumentation, make it a fun and memorable hit. “Why’d You Come in Here Looking Like That” showcases Dolly’s ability to blend country music with pop influences, creating a unique sound that has made her an enduring figure in the music industry. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Dolly’s talent and charisma as a performer.
