Dolly Parton’s Final Welsh Recording of 'Jolene' Released

Key points

• The song was released on Friday, October 9, marking Parton’s second posthumous single after 'Bound to Ride.'
• Parton recorded her parts at her Nashville studio in early 2025, learning Welsh phonetics from Lewis.
• Bronwen Lewis, a singer from Neath, Wales, started translating songs in 2024; her 'Jolene' cover went viral.
• Jada Star, Parton’s niece, facilitated the collaboration after seeing Lewis’s video and visiting Wales.
• Parton died on August 25, 2026, at age 80, after a brief battle with cancer.

Background

This release follows Parton’s death in August 2026 and precedes the November 13 release of U2’s album 'Carnaval de Luz,' which features her final duet 'Torn.' Parton had previously collaborated on Latin and Irish tracks, but this is her first Welsh-language recording. Her family has noted her Welsh ancestry, with recent research suggesting roots in Machynlleth, Powys.

How outlets are covering it

BBC and Nation.Cymru emphasize the emotional connection between Parton and her Welsh heritage, noting her pride in singing in Welsh. CBC highlights the cultural significance for the Welsh language, with Lewis expressing hope that the track promotes Welsh culture globally. Whiskey Riff focuses on the timeline of Parton’s final recordings and the family’s grief, while all sources agree on the collaborative nature of the project initiated by Lewis’s viral video.

Why it matters

The release underscores the enduring impact of Parton’s music and her willingness to engage with new languages and cultures. It also highlights the growing global appreciation for Welsh language and culture, as noted by Lewis and Star. The song serves as a final tribute to Parton’s versatility and her connection to her roots.

What to watch

Fans can stream the track on major platforms. The next major release involving Parton is U2’s 'Carnaval de Luz' on November 13, featuring her duet 'Torn.' No further posthumous singles from Parton are currently announced, though a time-capsule track is planned for 2046.