Bad Wolves are giving their hard-rock version of “Jolene” another chapter, this time with Dolly Parton’s own voice joining the recording. Released through Better Noise Music, the new version continues the band’s effort to raise money for Parton’s Imagination Library and help put books into children’s hands.
The band originally released its cover on August 31. Before Parton’s passing, Bad Wolves had shared their rendition with her and her team. Her team later supplied previously recorded vocal tracks, mixed for this release by Kent Wells. The finished recording arrives with the support and approval of Parton’s estate.
The project also brought a younger generation of musicians into the picture. After Bad Wolves, Better Noise Music and Parton’s team gathered at NOZ Studios to hear the completed track, the band invited students from Nashville’s School of Rock to join them in the official music video.
“Being able to raise money for Dolly’s charity is an honor, and being able to work with the kids from the Nashville School of Rock was an amazing experience,” said Bad Wolves’ John Boecklin.
That connection between music and education runs through the entire release. Better Noise Music chairman Allen Kovac pointed to Parton’s father’s struggle with illiteracy as the inspiration behind her book-gifting program. He encouraged other artists to use their reach to support the effort and expand opportunities for children.
For Nashville School of Rock owner Angie McCreight, the video gave students a chance to celebrate an artist whose commitment to education reached well beyond the stage. She described their enthusiasm for the project and the opportunity to support a cause Parton championed.
With Parton’s recorded vocals now part of the band’s heavier interpretation, the release connects her songwriting, her voice and her commitment to childhood literacy. The students appearing alongside Bad Wolves give that purpose a visible place in the video.
“Jolene” featuring Dolly Parton is available now on major streaming and download platforms, with proceeds benefiting the Imagination Library.