Dolly Parton’s approved Jolene cover by Lil Nas X reignited country legacy

As we look back, it's clear that some songs never fade – they just reinvent themselves for each new generation. Dolly Parton's 1974 classic, Jolene, is a perfect example. The song found a fresh audience when rapper Lil Nas X, known for blurring genre boundaries, covered it in the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge. The cover quickly garnered over 1.5 million views, proving the song's enduring appeal. Parton's reaction to the cover was quintessentially Dolly – full of enthusiasm and grace.
 

In a tweet, she expressed her excitement and honor at Lil Nas X's rendition. "I had to find it and listen to it immediately … and it’s really good," she wrote, her words highlighting the cross-generational and cross-genre appeal of her music. This exchange wasn't just about two artists admiring each other's work; it was a cultural moment that bridged the old and the new, the traditional and the unconventional.

I was so excited when someone told me that Lil Nas X had done my song #Jolene. I had to find it and listen to it immediately…and it's really good. Of course, I love him anyway. I was surprised and I'm honored and flattered. I hope he does good for both of us. Thank you @LilNasX https://t.co/w7vJWGypOp

— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) September 29, 2021

A symbol of inclusivity

This wasn't the first time Parton had extended her support to the LGBTQ community, of which Lil Nas X is a prominent member since coming out in 2019. Dolly Parton has been a long-standing advocate for LGBTQ rights, famously saying in a 2014 interview, “I think everybody should be allowed to be who they are, and to love who they love. I don’t think we should be judgmental." Her stance has made her an icon beyond her musical achievements, embodying the values of acceptance and love.

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Parton's endorsement of Lil Nas X's cover is reminiscent of the support Lil Nas X received from another country legend, Billy Ray Cyrus, in 2019. Cyrus's collaboration on Old Town Road propelled the song to unprecedented success, breaking records and challenging industry norms. The connection between these events underlines the power of music to unite across boundaries and generations.

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Revisiting a classic

Today, as we revisit Jolene through the lens of contemporary music and social progress, it's evident that the song, much like its creator, transcends time. It's not just a country classic; it's a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate, bringing together fans from all walks of life. In an age where music often serves as a bridge between the past and the present, Jolene stands out as a testament to the enduring power of a great song. Dolly Parton, through her music and her advocacy, continues to inspire and unite, proving that some legends never fade.

(Several parts of the text in this article, including the title, were generated with the help of an AI tool.)