Welsh singer Bronwen Lewis never imagined she would one day collaborate on a song with country music icon Dolly Parton when she first started performing Welsh versions of Parton’s songs. About two years ago, Lewis began sharing her renditions of Parton’s tracks online, including a notable cover of “Jolene” that caught the attention of Parton’s niece, Jada Star.
The collaboration between Lewis, Star, and Parton resulted in a new Welsh rendition of “Jolene,” featuring vocals from all three artists. This release, available on major streaming platforms since Friday, marks Parton’s second posthumous song and one of her final recordings before her passing in August at the age of 80.
Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity, Star emphasized the significance of Lewis’s cover of “Jolene,” which impressed Parton’s extended family and led to the joint recording project. Lewis, a lifelong fan of country music, particularly admires Parton’s authentic and heartfelt approach to music, which she felt resonated well with the Welsh language.
The emotional impact of Parton’s vocals in both English and Welsh was immediate for Lewis, evoking tears not only from her but also from many listeners since the song’s release. Notably, Parton is believed to have Welsh heritage through her mother’s lineage.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Lewis expressed pride in the Welsh language’s rich history and resilience, noting the positive impact that this global platform and the support from Parton and her family will have on Welsh culture and language. She hopes the song conveys a universal message of shared emotions and the potential for connection across linguistic and cultural differences.