Bad Wolves Honor Dolly Parton with Heartfelt Metal Tribute to 'Jolene'

The metal world is reeling from the tragic loss of icon Dolly Parton, who was set to grace Bad Wolves’ heavy cover of her classic hit ‘Jolene’ with her unmistakable voice. In a bittersweet tribute, the band has unleashed their rendition today, with all proceeds supporting Parton’s beloved Imagination Library, aimed at fostering literacy among children.

John Boecklin, Bad Wolves' founder and drummer, shared the band's deep admiration for Parton, revealing that their frontman had previously showcased his own takes on ‘Jolene.’ After crafting a rock-infused version, they reached out to Dolly’s team, who confirmed she was thrilled about the collaboration. Sadly, the world was left in shock as news of her passing struck just days before the planned recording, leaving a heavy void in the hearts of fans and musicians alike.

In the wake of this tragedy, Danny Nozell, Parton’s long-time manager, reiterated the singer's commitment to pushing musical boundaries, confirming that she had given her full blessing to the Bad Wolves arrangement. “Dolly adored their take on ‘Jolene’ and was eager to lay down her vocals,” Nozell stated, emphasizing that the release of this tribute aligns perfectly with what Parton envisioned, ensuring that her legacy continues to shine through her philanthropic efforts.

Don Burton, the manager of the late Dolores O’Riordan from The Cranberries, drew parallels between this heart-wrenching situation and his own experience with Bad Wolves. He recounted how the band, in the wake of O’Riordan’s passing, honored their commitment to donate proceeds to her children, a gesture that resonated deeply and provided crucial support. “The kindness shown here reflects the band’s integrity and commitment to honoring artists who’ve left us too soon,” Burton remarked.

Boecklin concluded with a pledge to uphold Dolly’s legacy by donating all earnings from ‘Jolene’ to her Imagination Library, a cause dedicated to ensuring every child has access to books. “We’re proud to contribute to her vision of improving literacy,” he asserted, encapsulating the spirit of metal’s ability to unite and uplift even in the darkest times. 'Jolene' is out now via Better Noise Music, ready to resonate through the hearts of fans old and new.