Dolly Parton is not just a country music icon; she’s a living legend whose songs have resonated with millions over the decades. Her distinctive voice, genuine character, and storytelling prowess have earned her a multitude of fans worldwide. From anthems of female empowerment to heartfelt ballads, Dolly’s catalog is both profoundly personal and universally relatable. What follows is a top ten list that aims to capture the essence of her incredible impact through some of her most memorable hits.
#10 “Two Doors Down”
Dolly Parton’s “Two Doors Down” is an upbeat track that showcases her knack for writing songs that are both catchy and emotionally nuanced. Released in 1977, this song sees Dolly painting a picture of moving on and having a good time despite heartbreak. It’s a song that puts a positive spin on the sadness that often accompanies endings, suggesting that joy can be found just a couple of steps away. The song became a cross-over hit, emphasizing Dolly’s ability to appeal to both country and pop music fans.
#9 “Jolene”
“Jolene” is one of Dolly Parton’s most covered songs, with artists across various genres reinterpreting its timeless theme of romantic insecurity. Released in 1973, it’s a song of pleading, where Dolly’s expressive voice begs Jolene not to take her man, highlighting her strength as a storyteller. The song’s simple, haunting melody, combined with Dolly’s raw, earnest vocals, creates a sense of urgency and vulnerability that has captured the hearts of listeners globally for decades.
#8 “The Bargain Store”
A lesser-known gem, “The Bargain Store,” is the title track of her 1975 album. The song metaphorically represents the heart as a boutique where every item has been slightly damaged. With its tender lyrics and classic country instrumentation, the track invites listeners to look past imperfections to find true value. The song became a number one hit on the country charts, further cementing Dolly’s status as a top-notch songwriter and musical artist.
#7 “Tennessee Homesick Blues”
Featured in the soundtrack of the film “Rhinestone,” in which Parton starred alongside Sylvester Stallone, “Tennessee Homesick Blues” is a beautiful expression of longing for home. The song features a catchy chorus and a melody that perfectly encapsulates the feeling of nostalgia. Despite its connection to a less critically acclaimed film, the song itself reached the top of the Country charts in 1984, proving that Dolly’s musical appeal could transcend even the films she was involved in.
#6 “Heartbreaker”
With “Heartbreaker,” Dolly delivers a touching take on love and the pain that often accompanies it. Released in 1978, this song combines the sounds of country with the rhythms of pop, creating a crossover feel. It’s a tune that not only showcased her formidable vocal talents but also her ability to craft songs that resonated outside of her traditional country music fan base.
#5 “Islands in the Stream”
A duet with fellow country star Kenny Rogers, “Islands in the Stream” is one of the most successful songs of Dolly Parton’s career. Written by the Bee Gees, this 1983 hit song transcends the country genre to incorporate a pop and soft rock sound. The song’s title is inspired by an Ernest Hemingway novel, and the chemistry between Dolly and Kenny in the song is palpable. The track exudes warmth and partnership, making it a staple at weddings and celebrations even today.
#4 “I Will Always Love You”
While many may immediately think of Whitney Houston’s iconic cover, “I Will Always Love You” is a testament to Dolly Parton’s brilliance as a songwriter. Initially recorded in 1974, the song was Dolly’s farewell to her former partner and mentor, Porter Wagoner, as she ventured out to pursue a solo career. The poignant lyrics, combined with Dolly’s emotional delivery, create a truly heartbreaking ballad. Its success was renewed in the 1990s when it once again topped the charts thanks to Houston’s powerful rendition for “The Bodyguard” film soundtrack.
#3 “Coat of Many Colors”
“Coat of Many Colors” stands as one of the most emblematic songs in Dolly Parton’s repertoire. Released in 1971, the autobiographical song tells a touching story of a coat that her mother made for her from a box of rags. The song celebrates the value of love and family over material wealth and has been praised for its emotional depth and narrative. This song not only reflects Dolly’s humble beginnings but also her talent for translating her personal experiences into universal truths.
#2 “9 to 5”
Another cross-over smash hit for Dolly Parton is “9 to 5,” which became an anthem for working individuals everywhere upon its release in 1980. Written as the theme song for the comedy film of the same name in which Dolly starred, it’s a lively, toe-tapping tune that addresses the grind of daily work and the empowerment of breaking free from it. The song not only reached the top of the charts but also earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.
#1 “Here You Come Again”
At the apex of our list stands “Here You Come Again,” which firmly established Dolly Parton as a crossover sensation. Released in 1977, this song perfectly balanced her country roots with pop elements, allowing her to reach a broader audience. The song tells of the irresistible pull of an on-and-off love affair, with clever, heartfelt lyrics and a captivating melody. Dolly’s performance of the song exudes both strength and vulnerability, a duality that she has mastered throughout her career. The song won the Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance, further recognizing her talents and the breadth of her appeal.
Dolly Parton’s repertoire extends far beyond these top ten songs, with countless underrated gems and hits that have touched the hearts of many. Her songs encapsulate the human experience, often characterized by the joy, struggle, heartache, and resilience that we can all relate to. Each track in this carefully curated list not only showcases Dolly’s varied musical styles but also the depth and honesty of her songwriting. With a career spanning decades and filled with profound achievements, Dolly Parton has indeed cemented her place in the pantheon of music legends.