Dolly Parton recently made a surprise appearance on Beyoncé’s country album, Cowboy Carter, with a spoken-word intro to the song “Jolene.” The intro is a humorous reference to Beyoncé’s track “Sorry,” in which she mentioned a woman with “good hair.” Parton’s intro is a playful retelling of her own hit song “Jolene,” about a woman pleading with the titular character not to take her man. The inspiration for “Jolene” came from a red-haired bank clerk who flirted with Parton’s husband early in their marriage.
Parton had previously hinted at her involvement in Cowboy Carter, suggesting that Beyoncé had covered “Jolene” for the album. She expressed excitement about Beyoncé recording the song and praised her as a beautiful girl and great singer. Parton also revealed that she and Beyoncé had exchanged messages over the years and shared admiration for each other. She defended Beyoncé’s decision to release a country album, highlighting her Texas roots and the success of her music across various charts worldwide.
In addition to Dolly Parton’s cameo, Cowboy Carter features guest appearances from Willie Nelson and Linda Martell, both of whom provide spoken-word intros for the album. Martell, a country music legend, made history as the first Black woman to perform at the Grand Ole Opry in 1970. Cowboy Carter has already been released to the public, showcasing a blend of traditional country sounds and Beyoncé’s unique style. Parton’s contribution to the album adds a touch of nostalgia and humor to the overall project.
The collaboration between Dolly Parton and Beyoncé on Cowboy Carter has been well-received by fans and critics alike. Parton’s spoken-word intro to “Jolene” adds a new dimension to the song, drawing connections between different eras of music and storytelling. Beyoncé’s foray into country music has sparked conversations about genre boundaries and the versatility of artists to explore different styles. Cowboy Carter serves as a tribute to the rich history of country music while incorporating modern influences and perspectives.
Overall, Dolly Parton’s contribution to Beyoncé’s country album exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in music. By bringing together iconic artists from different backgrounds, Cowboy Carter offers a fresh take on traditional country music while celebrating the diversity of voices within the genre. The success of the album reflects the enduring appeal of both Beyoncé and Dolly Parton as versatile artists who continue to push boundaries and inspire audiences worldwide. Cowboy Carter stands as a testament to the timeless quality of music that transcends genres and generations.
