When Life Throws You Lemons, Crank Up Dolly Parton!
We’ve all been there – staring down a long, dreary day with low energy and little motivation. The weight of responsibilities and problems seem overwhelming, and it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. On days like these, it’s easy to get stuck in a funk and spiral downward. But there is a tried and true remedy that has been cheering people up for decades – the music of Dolly Parton.
With her big smile, larger-than-life personality, and infectious optimism, Dolly Parton exudes a joy and positivity that is downright contagious. For over 50 years, she has been using her voice and songwriting talents to spread messages of empowerment, resilience, and hope. Her catalog includes countless classics that have gotten millions of people dancing, singing along, and feeling uplifted. So on those days when life throws you lemons, crank up Dolly Parton – her music is guaranteed to get your mood soaring.
Here are six of Dolly’s greatest hits that are perfect for lifting your spirits when you need a boost. Put any of these songs on, and you’ll be smiling, singing, and feeling motivated in no time.
9 to 5 (1980)
One of Dolly’s most iconic and empowering anthems is “9 to 5.” Released in 1980, its catchy melody and sassy lyrics perfectly capture the daily grind and frustrations of the American workforce. But Dolly doesn’t dwell in victimhood – she turns it into an anthem of solidarity and empowerment for working women everywhere.
The song celebrates getting through the daydreaming hours until it’s finally time to go home for the weekend. Lines like “They let you dream just to watch ’em shatter” and “I fight the system until I get just as bitter” acknowledge the challenges, but Dolly delivers them with such sass and spunk that you can’t help but feel energized.
Over 40 years later, this song still resonates deeply. Its message of persevering through challenges and standing up for fair treatment is timeless. And that driving beat and singalong chorus are pure fun. Listening to “9 to 5” is a surefire way to channel Dolly’s can-do spirit, no matter what obstacles you’re facing. You’ll be tapping your feet, belting out the lyrics, and feeling ready to take on the day.
Jolene (1973)
While the lyrics of “Jolene” deal with heartbreak as Dolly pleads with the other woman not to steal her man, the melody is surprisingly upbeat. Her powerful vocals are backed by an energetic bluegrass-country sound. It’s a masterclass in transforming a sad subject into an uplifting listening experience.
Even though the lyrics tell of relationship turmoil, Dolly sings with such strength, conviction and beauty that you can’t help but feel inspired. Her voice conveys an underlying message of resilience – no matter what challenges come your way, keep your head held high. The catchy rhythm and Dolly’s powerhouse vocals are downright invigorating.
It’s also a poignant reminder that even in our darkest moments, we have an inner strength we can tap into to persevere. Listening to Dolly belt out this song is like getting a pep talk reminding you that you’ve got this, no matter what life throws at you. The musicality simply lifts your spirit in a way the lyrics alone could not.
Here You Come Again (1976)
In contrast to the melancholy subject of “Jolene,” “Here You Come Again” is all joy and celebration. Its lyrics capture the giddy feeling of reuniting with a loved one after time apart. Dolly sings with a sweet sincerity about how happy she is just to see their face again.
It’s the kind of love song that spreads warmth from your heart to the tips of your fingers. Her lilting vocals paired with the upbeat bluegrass instrumentation just put you in an instantly good mood. The lyrics are a delightful reminder of the simple pleasures in life, like seeing someone you care about and feeling that rush of affection.
Listening to “Here You Come Again” is a quick pick-me-up that transports you to happier times and people. Even on your gloomiest day, it’s impossible not to start smiling while listening to Dolly’s joyful vocals describing the happiness that love can bring. Her enthusiasm is utterly contagious, leaving you feeling lighter and more optimistic about life’s beauty.
I Will Always Love You (1973)
While “I Will Always Love You” is undoubtedly a heart-wrenching ballad about lost love, it has become an anthem of enduring affection. Dolly pours her soul into the lyrics and melody, imbuing it with a warmth and emotional depth that moves even the most cynical of listeners.
Her soaring vocals are filled with raw emotion, making it impossible not to feel something – whether it’s sadness, nostalgia or affection – while listening. Yet despite dealing with difficult subject matter, it’s not a depressing song. Dolly sings with such sincerity, conviction and vulnerability that it spreads a feeling of catharsis.
Listening to “I Will Always Love You” is like receiving a big emotional hug. It allows you to acknowledge difficult feelings, but in a way that provides comfort and release instead of wallowing in sadness. Dolly’s performance gently reminds us that even in loss, love leaves behind feelings that can uplift us through hard times. Her message of eternal affection is profoundly touching and leaves you feeling warm inside.
Do I Ever Cross Your Mind (1981)
In contrast to the heavy emotions of “I Will Always Love You,” “Do I Ever Cross Your Mind” is a lighthearted love song filled with playful lyrics and a bouncy melody. Dolly sings sweetly about reminiscing on a past romance and wondering if the other person ever thinks of her too. Her joyful vocals are irresistible.
It’s the kind of love song you can’t help but smile while listening to. Dolly imbues even the simplest of lyrics with warmth, humor and positivity. The bluegrass instrumentation keeps an upbeat tempo that demands toe-tapping. Listening is like getting wrapped in a cozy blanket of feel-good affection. It’s a delightful three minutes that instantly lifts your spirits.
Dolly reminds us that even everyday joys like remembering past love can spread happiness. Her enthusiasm is downright infectious, leaving you feeling lighter and more optimistic about life’s beauty. “Do I Ever Cross Your Mind” never fails to put a smile on your face and a spring in your step.
Happy Wanderer (1961)
For pure, unadulterated fun and positivity, you can’t beat Dolly’s version of “Happy Wanderer.” Originally made famous by German folk group The Weavers, Dolly recorded a joyful bluegrass-style version in 1961. Her playful vocals are backed by banjos, fiddles and a foot-stomping tempo that makes it impossible not to smile.
The novelty lyrics tell the story of a wanderer who is always happy, no matter where he roams. Dolly belts them out with such gusto and enthusiasm that you can’t help but feel instantly lifted. Try listening to this song without a grin – it’s just not possible. Her energy and zest for life are downright infectious.
In just a few minutes, “Happy Wanderer” has the power to completely transform your mindset. Dolly reminds us that happiness comes from within, not our circumstances. Even on your gloomiest day, try listening without cracking a smile or feeling a mood boost. It’s the musical equivalent of a big hug or a bright ray of sunshine. Pure, simple joy defined in three minutes.
Lifting Spirits for Over 50 Years
So in summary – when you need an instant mood boost, reach for Dolly Parton. For over 50 years, she has been using her unique gifts to spread optimism, resilience and feelings of empowerment through her music. Whether you need a reminder to hold your head high through challenges, celebrate life’s simple pleasures or just feel sheer joy – Dolly has the perfect song for the occasion.
From anthems of empowerment to love songs to novelty tunes, her catalog is filled with musical pick-me-ups. Her larger-than-life personality, warmth and positivity shine through in every note. Listening to Dolly is like getting a hug from your most enthusiastic friend. So on those down days when life hands you lemons, just crank up Dolly Parton – her music is guaranteed to get your mood soaring high.