Welsh singer-songwriter Bronwen Lewis, initially covering Dolly Parton’s tracks in Welsh, never imagined she would eventually collaborate on a song with the country music icon herself. Lewis, hailing from Wales, began sharing her renditions of Parton’s songs online around two years ago. Her version of “Jolene” captured the interest of Parton’s niece, singer Jada Star, leading to a collaboration with the legendary artist.
“It was a surreal moment,” Lewis shared with guest host Dave Seglins on As It Happens. The fresh Welsh interpretation of “Jolene,” recorded in the studio by Lewis and Star, includes vocals, some in Welsh, from Parton. This release, available on major streaming platforms since Friday, marks Parton’s second posthumous song and one of her final recordings before her passing at 80 years old in August.
Expressing gratitude, Star acknowledged Parton’s belief in the project and in both Lewis and herself. Star hoped listeners would resonate with the collaboration, emphasizing their love for it. Lewis, a devoted fan of country music and especially Parton, praised the authenticity and message in Parton’s music, which she felt aligned perfectly with the Welsh language.
Overwhelmed with emotion upon hearing Parton’s vocals in both English and Welsh, Lewis described an immediate tearful reaction, similar to the response from listeners post-release. It is known that Parton is believed to have Welsh roots from her mother’s side.
Star highlighted the impact of Lewis’s “Jolene” cover on herself and Parton’s nieces and nephews, expressing admiration for Lewis’s talent. The decision to collaborate on a studio recording with Parton stemmed from this admiration, with the country legend readily agreeing to participate.
Lewis reflected on the extraordinary opportunity, acknowledging the rarity of collaborating with an icon like Parton. Star defended against any notion that Parton’s involvement was solely a favor to her niece, emphasizing the respect shown by Lewis for Parton’s music and heritage.
The Welsh language boasts a rich history predating the Roman Empire, surviving centuries of suppression. Despite historical efforts to suppress Welsh, the language persevered, with around 17.8% of the Welsh population speaking Welsh according to the 2021 census. Lewis expressed immense pride in the Welsh language, noting the global impact of their collaboration aided by Parton’s support.
Lewis hoped the collaboration would convey the universality of heartbreak across languages, emphasizing the similarities that connect people. The project, with Parton’s endorsement, aimed to promote Welsh culture and language globally, fostering understanding and unity among diverse communities.