About the song
“Jolene” is a song by Dolly Parton, released in 1973. It’s one of her most iconic and enduring hits, written and performed by Parton herself.
The lyrics of “Jolene” depict a woman pleading with another woman named Jolene, asking her not to take her man away. The narrator expresses her vulnerability and insecurity, acknowledging Jolene’s beauty and charisma as potential threats to her relationship. Despite her fears, she begs Jolene not to steal her partner, desperately pleading for her mercy.
The song’s emotional depth, along with Parton’s heartfelt delivery and distinctive vocal style, has made “Jolene” a classic in country music. Its universal themes of love, jealousy, and vulnerability have resonated with audiences for decades, cementing its status as one of Dolly Parton’s signature songs.
Video
Lyric
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, JoleneI’m beggin’ of you, please don’t take my man(Jolene)Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, JolenePlease don’t take him just because you canYour beauty is beyond compareWith flaming locks of auburn hairWith ivory skin and eyes of emerald green(Jolene)Your smile is like a breath of springYour voice is soft like summer rainAnd I cannot compete with you, Jolene (Jolene)He talks about you in his sleepAnd there’s nothing I can do to keep from cryingWhen he calls your name, Jolene (Jolene)And I can easily understandHow you could easily take my manBut you don’t know what he means to me, Jolene (don’t take him)Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, JoleneI’m begging of you, please don’t take my manOh, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, JoleneOh, please don’t take him just because you can (don’t take him)You could have your choice of menBut I could never love againHe’s the only one for me, Jolene (he’s the only one)I had to have this talk with youMy happiness depends on youWhatever you decide to do, JoleneJolene, Jolene, Jolene, JoleneI’m begging of you, please don’t take my man(Don’t take him, don’t take him, don’t take him)Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, JolenePlease don’t take him just because you can (just because you can)Jolene, Jolene (please don’t take him, please don’t take him, Jolene)JoleneJoleneHe’s the only one for meJoleneJolene, JoleneJolenePlease don’t take him just because you can