Dolly Parton’s greatest songs, and the stories behind them

Dolly Parton's enduring legacy extends far beyond her status as a talented musician, actor, author, philanthropist, and theme-park entrepreneur. The 80-year-old country icon transcended all these roles to become a symbol of American mythology, embodying the essence of larger-than-life and even more. However, at the core of every achievement lay her prowess as a songwriter.

Choosing 11 songs from her extensive discography is a daunting task, but several stand out as transcendent classics. Here are a few that shine above the rest, spanning her decades-long career — from country tunes that shake up traditional gender norms to the ultimate ballad ever recorded. Explore the full collection on our Spotify playlist.

In 1968, Parton's progressive stance on women's rights was evident in her country classic "Just Because I'm a Woman." Through her protagonist's frank conversation with her partner, the song deftly navigates the complexities of past relationships, asserting that one's past does not define them: "My mistakes are no worse than yours, just because I'm a woman." The song's inspiration stemmed from a conversation with her late husband, Carl Dean, who questioned her sexual history upon their first meeting.

Parton's storytelling prowess truly shines in her 1971 hit "Coat of Many Colors." This autobiographical ballad paints a vivid picture of her humble beginnings, as her mother crafted a coat out of rags for the young Dolly. Facing ridicule from her peers, Parton later reflected on the value of the garment, saying, "Now I know we had no money, but I was rich as I could be, in my coat of many colors my momma made for me."