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Backwoods Barbie and the ‘God almighty’ PMS Blues: Dolly Parton’s 10 best deep cuts
From heartbreaking spoken word to wry takes on the double standards women face, here are some of the late country singer’s lesser known gems
TL;DR
- 'Down from Dover' (1970) tells a harrowing story of a young woman's out-of-wedlock pregnancy and stillborn child.
- 'PMS Blues' (1994) is a humorous and rollicking take on the challenges of menopause and mood swings.
- 'The Bargain Store' (1975) uses a metaphor of a used-merchandise store to represent an older woman's societal perception.
- 'Daddy Come and Get Me' (1970) depicts a woman confined to a psychiatric hospital by her partner, pleading for her father's help.
- 'Wildflowers' (1987), a collaboration with Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt, is an anthem of escape and resilience.
- 'The Pain of Loving You' (1971) explores the complexities and love-hate dynamics within a relationship, specifically Parton's with Porter Wagoner.
- 'Light of a Clear Blue Morning' (1977) is a song of rebirth and hope, often linked to Parton's departure from Wagoner's show.
- 'Backwoods Barbie' (2008) playfully addresses stereotypes by making herself the target of potential judgment.
- 'The Bridge' (1968) is an eerie narrative about a pregnant young woman contemplating suicide.
- 'Here I Am' (1971) is presented as an anthem of connection, wisdom, and unity, comparable to 'Let It Be' or 'Hey Jude'.