Did Beyoncé actually record a version of Dolly Parton’s 1973 classic ‘Jolene’?
She is in her country era!
It won’t be long now until fans get their hands on Bey’s first country album, which is why all these new little tidbits are sneaking out.
The latest album spoiler came from the most unlikely of places though: the Queen of Country herself, Dolly Parton!
She just dropped some news that is going to have the Beyhive singing until March 29th!
Dolly Parton Believes Beyoncé Recorded a ‘Jolene’ Cover for ‘Act II’
Once upon a time, Dolly Parton asked a woman named Jolene, “Please don’t take him just because you can.” She didn’t want to share the man, but it sounds like she’s more than happy to pass on the song to someone else.
Dolly recently spoke with with Knox News, the website of the Knoxville News Sentinel, during the 2024 season opening of her them park, Dollywood.
The country music legeng was asked about point blank about the rumors of Beyoncé recording a cover of “Jolene” on her new album. This was the moment to squash the lies – but it sounds like it’s all very much TRUE!
“Well, I think she has,” Dolly confessed. “I think she’s recorded ‘Jolene’ and I think it’s probably gonna be on her country album, which I’m very excited about that.”
Beyoncé In Her Country Era
While fans will likely have to wait until the country album, Act II drops on March 29th to know the truth, they’ve already proven that they love this new sound from Bey.
In fact, the first single off the album “Texas Hold ‘Em” debuted at #1 last month on Billboard’s Hot Country chart. The milestone made Beyoncé the first Black woman to do so.
As it turns out, Dolly was among the first to offer congratulations.
“I’m a big fan of Beyoncé and very excited that she’s done a country album,” Parton said in an Instagram message. “So congratulations on your Billboard Hot Country number one single.”
Other Covers of ‘Jolene’
Dolly wrote and recorded “Jolene” in 1973, and the song has gone on to be one of country music’s most beloved songs.
It should comes as no surprise then that Bey wouldn’t be the first artist to cover the song. So many stars have taken Jolene for a spin, including Dollly’s goddaughter, Miley Cyrus.
Other artists who have covered the song include Olivia Newton-John, The White Stripes, Chiquis and Becky G, and Lil Nas X.