Album Information Section

Album Title: Ultimate Dolly Parton

Artist: Dolly Parton

Original Release Date: June 2, 2003

Label: Unknown Label

Genres: Country, Pop

Track Listing

• 1. Joshua (3:04)
• 2. Coat of Many Colors (3:04)
• 3. Jolene (2:41)
• 4. I Will Always Love You (2:55)
• 5. Please Don’t Stop Loving Me (2:48)
• 6. Love Is Like a Butterfly (2:21)
• 7. The Bargain Store (2:43)
• 8. Here You Come Again (2:55)
• 9. It’s All Wrong, but It’s All Right (3:18)
• 10. Heartbreaker (3:31)
• 11. I Really Got the Feeling (3:08)
• 12. You’re the Only One (3:21)
• 13. Starting Over Again (3:58)
• 14. Old Flames Can’t Hold a Candle to You (3:25)
• 15. 9 to 5 (3:01)
• 16. But You Know I Love You (3:19)
• 17. Tennessee Homesick Blues (3:24)
• 18. Islands in the Stream (4:11)
• 19. To Know Him Is to Love Him (3:51)
• 20. Why’d You Come in Here Lookin’ Like That (2:34)

Recording Information

The album “Ultimate Dolly Parton” was recorded in various studios across the United States, although specific studio names and locations are not widely documented for this compilation album. The recording spanned several years, with many tracks being pulled from different sessions throughout Dolly Parton’s prolific career, particularly from the 1970s and 1980s.

The production of the album involved multiple producers and engineers, reflecting the varied eras of the songs included. Notable producers who worked with Dolly during the times these hits were recorded include Bob Ferguson, Gary Klein, and David Foster, among others. The engineering of the tracks was innovative for its time, often utilizing multi-track recording techniques that allowed for rich vocal harmonies and orchestral arrangements.

One interesting production note is that many of the tracks featured on “Ultimate Dolly Parton” were originally recorded with live instrumentation, showcasing the organic sound characteristic of country music in that era. Additionally, the album’s release coincided with a renewed interest in Parton’s legacy, which had been bolstered by her success in film and television.

Band Context

At the time of the album’s release in 2003, Dolly Parton was a well-established icon in the country and pop music scenes, celebrated not only for her musical prowess but also for her work in film and philanthropy. By this point in her career, she had already amassed a plethora of hits and numerous awards, solidifying her status as a trailblazer for women in music.

Dolly Parton had previously enjoyed significant commercial success with singles such as “9 to 5” and “Islands in the Stream,” the latter a duet with Kenny Rogers. The release of “Ultimate Dolly Parton” served as a retrospective of her most beloved songs, making it a significant release in her discography.

In the years leading up to this album, Parton experienced a resurgence in popularity, partly due to her appearances in films like “Steel Magnolias” and her television specials. This period marked a time of reflection for Parton, as she looked back at her extensive career while also continuing to produce new music and maintain a busy schedule of touring and public appearances.

Track Commentary

The tracks on “Ultimate Dolly Parton” encapsulate the diverse range of styles and themes that have defined her career. Starting with the poignant “Joshua,” which tells a story of love and loss, the album quickly moves into the heart-wrenching “Coat of Many Colors,” a classic that reflects Parton’s upbringing and the values of family and resilience.

The iconic “Jolene,” perhaps one of her most famous songs, showcases Parton’s ability to weave a narrative of jealousy and vulnerability into a catchy melody, while “I Will Always Love You” has transcended generations, famously covered by Whitney Houston. Other standout tracks include “9 to 5,” a lively anthem that highlights the struggles and triumphs of women in the workplace, and “Islands in the Stream,” a duet that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

Critical reception of the album has generally acknowledged its role as a comprehensive introduction to Dolly Parton’s extensive catalog. “Ultimate Dolly Parton” not only serves as a celebration of her past hits but also reinforces her enduring legacy as a songwriter and performer. The compilation is seen as a testament to her influence on both country music and popular culture.

Overall, “Ultimate Dolly Parton” remains a significant work in Dolly Parton’s discography, reflecting her journey as an artist and her impact on the music industry.