Jolene

Released in January 1974, Jolene marked the fourth studio album from Dolly Parton and arrived via RCA Records. Recorded at the historic RCA Studio B in Nashville under the guidance of producer Bob Ferguson, the project blended traditional country storytelling with pop sensibilities. The twelve-track collection runs for roughly thirty-five minutes and features a sound defined by twangy guitars and steady rhythms that explore themes of love, insecurity, and resilience.

The title track emerged as an instant classic after its release as a single in October 1973. It climbed to number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and reached number 60 on the Billboard Hot 100. Critics praised the song for its unique narrative voice, a woman pleading with another woman not to steal her lover out of deep insecurity rather than anger. This distinct perspective helped secure high rankings on "Greatest Songs of All Time" lists from major publications like Rolling Stone.

Four singles surfaced from the record, including "I Will Always Love You," which hit number six on the Hot Country Songs chart, and "Touch Your Woman," which peaked at number two. These hits drove the album to the top of the Billboard Top Country Albums chart for multiple weeks. On the broader US Billboard 200, the LP reached number 14. The Recording Industry Association of America later certified the album Platinum for sales exceeding one million copies. [edit]