Dolly Parton may have just divulged a major detail about Beyoncé‘s anticipated country album, Cowboy Carter.
The country music legend, 78, hinted that Queen Bey, 42, may have reimagined her 1973 hit, “Jolene.” Speaking with Tennessee’s Knox News, Parton intimated this week that Beyoncé has potentially already recorded her version of the track, indicating it could make an appearance on the forthcoming album.
“Well, I think she has! I think she’s recorded ‘Jolene’ and I think it’s probably gonna be on her country album, which I’m very excited about that,” Parton dished to the outlet.
Did Dolly Parton Just Reveal That Beyoncé Is Covering 'Jolene?' Here's What We Know
Earlier this week, Beyoncé unveiled the title of her upcoming eighth studio album, which will also serve as the second installment of the three-act project she created amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, following 2022's Renaissance. During her recent interview, the "9 to 5" hitmaker gushed about the "Break My Soul" artist, saying: "I love her! She’s a beautiful girl and a great singer."
Parton also mentioned that she and Beyoncé have had ongoing communication for several years. "We’ve kind of sent messages back and forth through the years," Parton said. The Steel Magnolias star went on: "And she and her mother were like fans, and I was always touched that they were fans, and I always thought she was great," she continued.
Parton has cheered on the "Halo" singer as she transitions into the country music genre after decades of churning out pop, R&B, hip hop and dance-tinged hits. This was recently demonstrated by a post the "I Will Always Love You" songwriter made on Instagram, where she praised Beyonce's latest project.
"I'm a big fan of Beyoncé and very excited that she’s done a country album," Parton wrote in an upload for her 6.7 million followers back in February. Parton added: "So congratulations on your Billboard Hot Country number one single. Can’t wait to hear the full album."
Cowboy Carter drops on March 29th, and Beyoncé has already shared two new singles off the LP. "Texas Hold 'Em" features lively acoustic guitars, an infectious bass drum rhythm and a catchy chorus. The second track, "16 Carriages," is a charmingly country piece with rich orchestral accompaniments, her signature soaring vocals, and captivating harmonies.
