“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Dolly Parton’s song “Coat of Many Colors” is an iconic piece of American music history that draws from the artist’s own experiences growing up in rural Tennessee. Released in 1971, the song tells a deeply personal story about poverty, love, and pride. Parton’s evocative storytelling and heartfelt lyrics have resonated with audiences for decades, cementing her status as a beloved country music legend.
About The Composition
- Title: Coat of Many Colors
- Composer: Dolly Parton
- Premiere Date: 1971
- Album/Opus/Collection: Coat of Many Colors
- Genre: Country
Background
“Coat of Many Colors” was inspired by a true story from Dolly Parton’s childhood. Growing up in a large, impoverished family, her mother crafted a coat for her out of colorful rags, telling her the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. Despite being teased by classmates for wearing a coat made of rags, Parton felt rich in love, a sentiment she beautifully captures in the song. This song not only highlights the struggles of poverty but also emphasizes the richness of love and family.
Musical Style
The song features traditional country music elements, including acoustic guitar and a simple, yet poignant melody. Parton’s vocal delivery is both tender and powerful, conveying deep emotional resonance. The arrangement is understated, allowing the storytelling to take center stage.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical themes of “Coat of Many Colors” focus on themes of love, family, and pride. The song narrates a touching story of a mother’s love and the values of humility and gratitude in the face of adversity. It highlights how emotional wealth can transcend material wealth.
Performance History
“Coat of Many Colors” has been performed by Dolly Parton at countless concerts and events throughout her career. One of the most notable performances was during her appearance on “The Porter Wagoner Show,” where she introduced the song to a wider television audience, further solidifying its place in her repertoire.
Cultural Impact
The song has had a significant cultural impact, being covered by numerous artists across various genres. It has appeared in several media outlets and inspired a made-for-television movie in 2015, which explored the story behind the song’s creation and its significance in Parton’s life.
Legacy
“Coat of Many Colors” remains one of Dolly Parton’s most enduring works, celebrated for its heartfelt narrative and universal themes. The song continues to be a staple in her live performances and has influenced countless artists, reinforcing Parton’s legacy as a master storyteller in music.
Conclusion
Dolly Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors” is a testament to the power of storytelling in music. Its themes of love, family, and resilience continue to resonate with listeners today. I encourage you to explore more of Dolly Parton’s music to appreciate the depth and breadth of her artistry.
Video
Lyrics
(Dolly Parton)
Back through the years I go wandering once again
back to the seasons of my youth
I recall, a box of rags that someone gave us
and how my mama put the rags to use.
There were rags of many colors, and every piece was small
and I didn’t have a coat and it was way down in the fall
Mama sewed the rags together, sewin every Piece with love
She made my coat of many colors that I was so proud of.
As she sewed she told a story from the bible she had read
About a coat of many colors, Joseph wore and then she said
“Perhaps this coat will bring you, good luck and hapiness.”
And I just couldn’t wait to wear it and mama blessed it with a kiss.
Chorus:
My coat of many colors that my mama made for me
Made only from rags, but I wore so proudly
Although we had no money I was rich as I could be
In my coat of many colors, my mama made for me.
So with patches on my britches, and holes in both my shoes
in my coat of many colors, I hurried off to school
Just to find the others laughing, and making fun of me
In my coat of many colors, my mama made for me.
Chorus:
And oh, I couldn’t understand it, for I felt I was rich
And I told them of the love my mama sewed in every stitch
And I told them all the story, mama told me while sewed
And how my coat of many colors, was worth more than all their clothes.
But they didn’t understand it and I tried to make them see
that one is only poor, only if they choose to be
Now I know we had no money, but I was rich as I could be
In my coat of many colors, my mama made for me…