5 Criminally Underrated Songs From Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton, the country queen, has an extensive discography filled with iconic hits that have cemented her status as a music legend. However, amidst her well-known songs, there are hidden gems that often go unnoticed by casual fans. We will explore five criminally underrated songs from Dolly Parton that showcase her incredible talent and versatility as an artist.

1. “My Blue Tears”

“My Blue Tears” is a hauntingly beautiful song that has two distinct versions – one as a solo performance and the other as a harmony-driven collaboration with Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt. Parton’s solo rendition, found on her album “Coat Of Many Colors,” captivates with her emotional and heartfelt delivery. The song’s lyrics paint a poignant picture as Parton croons, “Fly away from my window, little bluebird, Fly as far as you can away from here.” Her ability to convey raw emotions through her voice is truly unmatched.

2. “Don’t Call It Love”

Originally released by Kim Carnes in 1981, “Don’t Call It Love” became a gem in Dolly Parton’s repertoire when she covered it. Parton’s velvety vocals shine as she belts out the chorus, “Don’t call it love, Heaven’s above, We got a better thing, baby, Don’t call it love.” Her unique interpretation adds a fresh layer of depth to the song, making it an absolute delight for listeners.

3. “Early Morning Breeze”

In “Early Morning Breeze,” Parton mesmerizes her audience with a simple yet enchanting ballad. Her signature near-yodeling vocals take center stage, accompanied only by a gentle bass riff and a driving drum line. The song’s vivid imagery and Parton’s expressive delivery create a serene atmosphere that lingers in the listener’s mind like a gentle breeze.

4. “When Someone Wants to Leave”

Parton’s captivating storytelling is on full display in “When Someone Wants to Leave,” a classic country song that tugs at the heartstrings. The opening slide guitar sets the melancholic tone as Parton sings, “What do you do? What do you say? When you know they want to leave, As bad as you want them to stay.” Her emotive vocals resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of a one-sided love.

5. “Put It Off Until Tomorrow”

In “Put It Off Until Tomorrow,” Parton’s playfulness shines through as she navigates heartbreak with a touch of humor. The song features a classic country shuffle, and Parton’s spirited performance adds personality to the lyrics. “You’ve hurt me enough today… leave me tomorrow,” she sings, reminding us why she is a musical treasure cherished by millions.