Ever since country music legend Dolly Parton released “Jolene” in 1973, the haunting ballad has become a classic, captivating audiences with its catchy melody and vulnerable lyrics. What many fans don't know, however, is that the No. 1 hit has a real-life backstory.

In this episode of I Never Knew That , editor Catherine dives deep into the origin of the song, which has a surprising connection to Parton's late husband, Carl Dean.

If you enjoyed the video, please let us know at editor@biography.com. Don't forget to check out our catalogue of other episodes, including last week's installment about Jamie Lee Curtis ' complicated relationship with her father.

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