Dolly Parton is one of the most beloved and influential artists of our time. Let’s discuss some of her most empowering songs.
10. 9 to 5
Written and performed by Dolly Parton.
This is a great song to help you get through a busy day. This typewriter-laden tune will help keep you sane during even the most tumultuous work week. This is the perfect song to play as you pour yourself a cup of ambition.
9. Mule Skinner Blues (a.k.a Blue Yodel #8)
Written and performed by Jimmie Rodgers. Co-written by George Vaughn. Covered by Dolly Parton.
It is a crying shame that more people don’t know about this song. It tells the story of a woman who is fed up with her job and travels to a new town in pursuit of a different career. The lyrics “If you don’t like your job, well, you can throw your bucket down” will empower you to leave toxic situations.
8. JJ Sneed
Written and performed by Dolly Parton. Co-written by Dorothy Jo Hope.
This song tells the story of an adventurous and morally dubious woman who gets revenge on her no-good lover. The lyrics’ old west imagery will make you feel like an outlaw as you sing along. Listen to this song when you need to remind yourself that you are a strong person who deserves to be treated well.
7. I’m Gone
Written and performed by Dolly Parton.
Sometimes we have to manifest self-love as a means of survival. And this tune is a great example of manifesting self-love. The song tells the story of a woman freeing herself from an unhappy relationship. Like with “Mule Skinner Blues,” this song will encourage you to leave bad situations.
6. These Old Bones
Written and performed by Dolly Parton.
Dolly Parton knows how to tell a captivating tale. This song tells the story of a young clairvoyant girl who reunites with her mother who has the ability to see the future in an old bag of bones. Listen to this song when you need to be reminded of the magic that resides within you.
5. Coat Of Many Colors
Written and performed by Dolly Parton.
This is one of Dolly’s more sentimental autobiographical songs. It tells the story of a coat that her mother made for her from a box of rags. She sings about how proud she was to wear that coat and how sad she was when the other kids made fun of her for it. This song will encourage you to be proud of who you are and where you came from.
4. Two Door Down
Written and performed by Dolly Parton.
When we are feeling low, it can be cathartic to listen to a sad song or two. But we can’t listen to depressing music all the time. Play this song as loud as you can when you’re trying to pull yourself out of a depression spiral.
3. Light of a Clear Blue Morning
Written and performed by Dolly Parton.
This is a great song to play when you’re feel down in the dumps. Sometimes we feel like we are stuck in a dark place, mentally and emotionally. This song, with its sweet melody and uplifting lyrics will remind you that everything is going to be alright. It’s going to be okay.
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2. Just Because I’m A Woman
Written and performed by Dolly Parton.
Enjoy this great feminist classic from the Queen of country! Doesn’t this song just make you want to burn your bra? Well, don’t because those things are expensive. This song was released back in 1968, but it’s just as poignant 56 years later. Listen to this song to remind yourself of how far we have come and how far we have to go.
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1. I Will Always Love You
Written and performed by Dolly Parton.
We all understand the importance of self-love and self-care, but as we mature, we begin to understand the importance of self-sacrifice. Listen to this song when you need reassurance about committing a selfless act. Sometimes letting go and walking away is the most empowering thing you can do.
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