About the song
“Dolly Parton – Coat of Many Colors” is a heartfelt and timeless country song that delves into themes of love, family, and resilience. Released in 1971 as the title track of Dolly Parton’s album, this song has since become one of her signature pieces, cherished by fans worldwide for its emotional depth and relatability.
The song’s title, “Coat of Many Colors,” refers to a coat that Dolly’s mother stitched together from various scraps of fabric, symbolizing love, sacrifice, and the value of simple joys in life. Through poignant storytelling, Dolly recounts her childhood memories with honesty and warmth, painting a vivid picture of growing up in humble circumstances but surrounded by love and creativity.
The lyrics of “Coat of Many Colors” are rich with imagery and nostalgia, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing for the innocence of youth. Dolly’s voice is tender yet powerful, conveying the emotions of gratitude and appreciation for the lessons learned from her upbringing.
Musically, the song is characterized by its gentle acoustic guitar melody, complemented by Dolly’s soulful vocals and poignant lyrics. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the heartfelt message of the song to shine through, touching the hearts of listeners of all ages.
At its core, “Coat of Many Colors” is a testament to the strength of family bonds and the enduring power of love, resilience, and gratitude. It serves as a reminder that true wealth is not measured in material possessions but in the intangible treasures of love, kindness, and cherished memories.
With its timeless appeal and universal themes, “Coat of Many Colors” continues to resonate with audiences, cementing Dolly Parton’s legacy as a gifted storyteller and beloved icon in the world of country music.
Video
Lyrics
Back through the yearsI go wonderin’ once againBack to the seasons of my youthI recall a box of rags that someone gave usAnd how my momma put the rags to useThere were rags of many colorsBut every piece was smallAnd I didn’t have a coatAnd it was way down in the fallMomma sewed the rags togetherSewin’ every piece with loveShe made my coat of many colorsThat I was so proud ofAs she sewed, she told a storyFrom the Bible she had readAbout a coat of many colorsJoseph wore and then she saidPerhaps this coat will bring youGood luck and happinessAnd I just couldn’t wait to wear itAnd momma blessed it with a kissMy coat of many colorsThat my momma made for meMade only from ragsBut I wore it so proudlyAlthough we had no moneyI was rich as I could beIn my coat of many colorsMy momma made for meSo with patches on my britchesAnd holes in both my shoesIn my coat of many colorsI hurried off to schoolJust to find the others laughingAnd making fun of meIn my coat of many colorsMy momma made for meAnd oh, I couldn’t understand itFor I felt I was richAnd I told ’em of the loveMy momma sewed in every stitchAnd I told ’em all the storyMomma told me while she sewedAnd how my coat of many colorsWas worth more than all their clothesBut they didn’t understand itAnd I tried to make them seeThat one is only poorOnly if they choose to beNow I know we had no moneyBut I was rich as I could beIn my coat of many colorsMy momma made for meMade just for me