Lead image for Jolene, 9 to 5 and I Will Always Love You: the genius of Dolly Parton.
The world has lost a music legend in Dolly Parton, who has died at 80 after a “brief battle” with cancer. She’s remembered for her twanging country vocals, decades of hit recordings, Grammys, Emmys and a liberal splash of acting.
But the biggest legacy Parton leaves is her songwriting, and three songs define her more than any others.
Dolly Parton attends the 37th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Los Angeles, California, US, November 5, 2022.
Jolene, I Will Always Love You and 9 to 5 are not just memorable Parton songs – they are integral to popular music history. They show a skilful musician who knew how to blend the story of lyrics with the drama of music.
Like many songwriters, Parton had things to say. What makes her contribution notable was when her lyrics told a story, and her music matched it.