Dolly Parton Reacts to ‘Son of Jolene’ – Belles’ Viral Rendition
Dolly Parton Collaborates with Rising Country Star Belles on “Son of Jolene”
– Country music icon Dolly Parton has joined forces with emerging artist Belles on a sequel to her legendary hit “Jolene,” titled “Son of Jolene.” The collaboration, announced , is set to release on .
The track reimagines the story of “Jolene” by focusing on her son, and a woman who finds herself captivated by him. Belles penned the song, inspired by the enduring narrative of the original, envisioning a new encounter with a character connected to the iconic Jolene. According to a press release, the song blends “vivid storytelling with a modern country edge,” honoring the spirit of the original while offering a fresh perspective.
Parton reportedly connected with the song’s concept immediately after hearing it, recognizing it as a natural fit for a collaboration. “When I heard ‘Son of Jolene,’ I thought it was very clever,” Parton told People magazine. The collaboration bridges generations through a shared commitment to storytelling.
Belles expressed her excitement about working with Parton, stating, “I grew up so inspired by Dolly and the worlds she created through her songs. Having her lend her voice to this record is beyond anything I could have imagined. It feels like a full-circle moment and a true honor.”
The release of “Son of Jolene” marks a pivotal milestone for Belles, ahead of her highly anticipated debut album, slated for release in . The song will impact country radio on .
The story behind the song has a personal connection for Belles. She was inspired to write “Son of Jolene” after meeting the mother of one of her opening acts, whose name was, fittingly, Jolene. According to American Songwriter, Belles playfully suggested to the mother that her son’s romantic life might be complicated by his lineage.
“Jolene,” originally released in , remains one of Parton’s most recognizable and beloved songs, celebrated for its ability to transcend genre and generations. The song was inspired by a bank clerk who Parton felt was overly friendly with her husband, Carl Dean.
Belles will kick off promotion for “Son of Jolene” at the Country Radio Seminar in Nashville from to , hosting exclusive meet-and-greets with radio and industry executives at the Omni Hotel Nashville.
Fans can pre-save “Son of Jolene” now.