Welsh artist Bronwen Lewis found herself in awe when her renditions of Dolly Parton’s songs in Welsh led to a collaboration with the iconic country singer. Lewis, a singer-songwriter from Wales, began covering Parton’s tracks online around two years ago. Parton’s niece, singer Jada Star, was captivated by Lewis’s version of “Jolene,” which eventually caught Parton’s attention. This led to a joint recording project.
Describing the experience as surreal, Lewis expressed gratitude for Parton’s belief in the collaboration. The latest Welsh rendition of “Jolene,” featuring vocals in Welsh from Parton, was recently released on major streaming platforms. This track marks Parton’s second posthumous release and was among her final recordings before her passing at age 80 in August.
Lewis, a lifelong country music enthusiast and avid Parton fan, highlighted the emotional impact of hearing Parton’s vocals in English and Welsh. The collaboration resonated deeply with fans, evoking immediate emotional responses.
Notably, Parton is believed to have Welsh roots through her maternal lineage. Star praised Lewis’s talent, noting that the collaboration stemmed from a genuine appreciation for her work. The joint effort to record the song, with Parton’s enthusiastic involvement, underscored the respect and admiration shared among the artists.
Reflecting on the significance of the Welsh language, Lewis emphasized the cultural pride associated with it. She expressed hope that the collaboration, endorsed by Parton and her family, would promote Welsh culture and language on a global scale. Lewis also conveyed a message of unity, highlighting the universal nature of heartbreak and the importance of embracing diversity.
The artistic partnership between Lewis, Star, and Parton not only celebrates music but also symbolizes cross-cultural understanding and the power of shared emotions across languages.
