NPR did a story on Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” this week. It’s a classic song (from the album of the same name) that’s been covered by everyone from Olivia Newton John and Strawberry Switchblade to Sisters of Mercy and the White Stripes. There’s not much to the lyrics, but they’re fun nonetheless. Here’s an edited taste:
Jolene (x4)
I’m begging of you please dont take my man
Jolene (x4)
Please dont take him just because you can
Your beauty is beyond compare
With flaming locks of auburn hair
With ivory skin and eyes of emerald green
Your smile is like a breath of spring
Your voice is soft like summer rain
And I cannot compete with you, Jolene
Of course, the Parton song should not be confused with this Jolene by Cake.