Dolly Parton Reacts To Hip-Hop Version Of “Jolene”

Numerous artists have covered Dolly Parton’s song “Jolene.” The latest is country/hip-hop crossover artist Lil Nas X. The cover is a straightforward version of the song. The “Old Town Road” singer’s twangy baritone captures that lament of losing your lover to someone you feel is more attractive than you are. 

Country icon and literal angel on Earth Dolly Parton has had her share of hits. The prolific singer and songwriter has written so many hit songs it is hard to keep count or find a favorite.

But if you asked most which one of Dolly’s songs was the best, I think most people would say that angsty, pleading ballad “Jolene.

Dolly took to Instagram to thank the rapper for his rendition of “Jolene.”

You Can Listen To Lil Nas X’s Cover Here

I like this version. You can roll your eyes at some of Lil Nas X’s gimmicks and antics, but you can’t deny he is a very talented singer and performer. 

Nas X broke out onto the scene with his genre-bending “Old Town Road.” Charts considered it a “hip-hop” hit until Billy Ray Cyrus decided to join in on a remix. Since then, Nas X has shared his fair share of provocative hits.

You can listen to that right here:

He isn’t for everyone, but what music or musician is? You can’t say his music doesn’t stand out.

But in a world where everything on the radio sounds the same, Lil Nas X can be a welcome change.

Other Great Covers Of Dolly Parton Songs

Dolly has written thousands of songs, and many of them are classics. Throughout Dolly’s prolific career, she has had numerous hits covered by some of the biggest stars in music. There are almost too many to mention, but let’s try to share a few notables. 

American Idol winner Kelly Clarson covered the working-class anthem “9 to 5” for her daytime talk show. 

This is technically a duet with Parton, but Shania’s version of “Coat of Many Colors” is also a great one.

A powerful song about hope and the love of family in the face of poverty. This is a song that I tear up listening to.

Honestly, as I write this, I am tearing up a bit. It is my favorite Dolly song and probably one of my favorite songs of all time.

Whenever I’m feeling down or unlucky in life, I listen to this song, and it gives me a lot of hope. 

Another “Joelene” cover I like is from Dolly’s goddaughter, Miley Cyrus.

Perhaps the biggest was Whitney Houston’s cover of “I Will Always Love You.” I didn’t even know this was a Dolly song until a few years ago. 

I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Dolly Parton live, and it was quite the treat.

She is such a natural star and performer, and you forget how many hits she’s had. I think I was singing along to every song. 

What do you think of this cover of Jolene? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.