Dolly Parton Joins Belles' 'Son of Jolene' Song

The country icon approves of the new take on her classic 'Jolene'.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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More than 50 years after Dolly Parton released her hit song 'Jolene', country singer Belles has written a sequel titled 'Son of Jolene' that imagines what might have happened to Jolene's son. Parton not only approved of the concept, but also decided to lend her voice to the track, giving it a stamp of approval that few reinterpretations of 'Jolene' could ever claim.

Why it matters

Parton's 1973 hit 'Jolene' is considered a country music classic, and the story of the song has become part of country music history. Belles' new take on the story, with Parton's involvement, continues that legacy and introduces the classic to a new generation of listeners.

The details

In Belles' version of the story, she imagines that Jolene's son has inherited his mother's striking looks and lack of respect for boundaries. The song suggests 'the apple didn't fall far from the tree' when it comes to Jolene's son. Parton was impressed by the clever concept and decided to join the track, lending her voice to the sequel.

  • Dolly Parton's original 'Jolene' was released in 1973.
  • 'Son of Jolene' by Belles featuring Dolly Parton is set for release on April 17, 2026.

The players

Dolly Parton

A legendary country music icon who released the hit song 'Jolene' in 1973.

Belles

A 26-year-old country singer who has written a sequel to Parton's 'Jolene' titled 'Son of Jolene'.

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What they’re saying

“When I heard 'Son of Jolene,' I thought it was very clever. No one had ever thought of it that way.”

— Dolly Parton (People)

What’s next

"Son of Jolene" by Belles featuring Dolly Parton is set for release on April 17, 2026.

The takeaway

Dolly Parton's classic song 'Jolene' continues to inspire new interpretations and creative storytelling, with the country icon herself approving of Belles' clever sequel that brings the story into the modern era.