How Dolly Parton became such a successful businesswoman – and why she said no to Elvis

Dolly Parton, the iconic country singer, passed away at 80 after a brief battle with cancer. She is remembered for her powerful country vocals, numerous hit recordings, Grammys, Emmys, and her acting prowess. However, her most significant legacy is her songwriting, with three songs standing out as defining works in her repertoire: Jolene, I Will Always Love You, and 9 to 5.

Jolene, released in 1974, showcases Parton's ability to tell a powerful human story through her lyrics. The song describes the heartache of watching a loved one flirt with another woman, a relatable experience for many women. The minor-key chords and rapid-fire finger-picked guitar create a sense of tension, highlighting the desperation in Parton's plea for the woman named Jolene to leave her man. In contrast to the love-focused love songs of the time, Jolene delves into the darker side of jealousy and insecurity.

Just months later, Parton released I Will Always Love You, which also explores the theme of love but with a different twist. This 1974 song talks about the grief of saying goodbye to a deep love, even though love may endure. Parton's ability to convey the bittersweetness of farewells resonates with listeners, as the elongated "I" in the song represents a cry of agony, as Whitney Houston's rendition demonstrates.

The chord progression underlying the chorus, a familiar pattern found in numerous hit songs, is what truly sets I Will Always Love You apart – the melody stays constant while the chords do the work, creating a hauntingly beautiful effect.

In 1980, Parton wrote 9 to 5 for her role in the movie of the same name, starring alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. This song marked a departure from love-focused themes, as Parton turned her attention to feminist issues. The song describes the monotony and injustices of working tirelessly in a career, only to be overlooked for promotions.

The clever use of imperfect rhymes, such as "kitchen" and "ambition," emphasizes the story's energy. The melody rises with each word cluster in the verse, mirroring the daily hustle described. The powerful chorus, with its repetitive "9 to 5" chant, highlights the song's feminist message, which remains relevant even today.