Dolly Parton's Final Recording 'Son Of Jolene' Debuts On Billboard Chart

The legendary Dolly Parton is making waves on the music charts once again. Her final studio effort, a fresh collaboration titled "Son of Jolene" with newcomer Belles, has officially landed on Billboard's Country Airplay ranking. The track represents a poignant moment for country fans worldwide as the country icon's final newly recorded release hits the airwaves. Debuting at No. 51 on the chart dated Sept. 12, the track racked up an impressive 1.3 million in radio airplay audience during the tracking frame spanning Aug. 28 through Sept. 3. That figure reflects a massive 68 percent surge in listenership week over week, per numbers tracked by Luminate.

What is the Son of Jolene song about?

The track acts as a thematic follow-up to Parton’s classic 1974 hit "Jolene," which famously spent time at No. 1 on the Hot Country Songs chart decades ago. The new narrative concept was created by rising singer-songwriter Belles, who co-wrote the track alongside musicians Tyler Bank and Dan Harrison. The song eventually reached Parton through her veteran producer Kent Wells. Upon hearing the demo and the clever sequel storyline, the country superstar was charmed enough by the project to contribute her signature vocals. The resulting duet stands as the final brand-new studio recording Parton put out during her lifetime.

BUZZBEAT

How did Belles react to working with Dolly Parton?

For Belles, the chart entry marks her very first time appearing on any Billboard chart. The milestone is an emotional victory for the rising performer, who previously shared her gratitude following Parton's death on Aug. 25. Taking to Instagram shortly after the icon passed away, Belles posted a video message opening up about what the collaboration meant to her. She admitted she was at a total loss for words, describing herself as just a small-town girl from Nebraska who grew up worshipping Parton. Belles added that when she relocated to Nashville, she never in her wildest dreams imagined meeting her musical hero—let alone recording a duet together. She expressed everlasting appreciation to Parton for taking a gamble on her talent and helping make her country music dreams come true.