A Tribute to the Queen of Country
In the past week, the world has lost a music legend. With a career spanning more than six decades, Dolly Parton has impacted generations of music lovers around the world in a way few musicians have accomplished. Dolly faced the world with determination, knew what she wanted, and didn’t take “no” for an answer. Over the years she became a successful business woman, a philanthropist, and a cultural icon. Her music is recognizable to people young and old, whether or not they like country music.
In my work as a music therapist, I often get requests for music from Dolly Parton. When I start playing some of the favorites, it is hard not to notice the smiles and expressions of joy that appear on the faces of my clients as I play those familiar tunes. In any public appearances I have seen, Dolly has always exuded joy and compassion for the world around her. Many of Dolly Parton’s songs speak about experiences that are common to people of all walks of life. Here are some examples of how I have incorporated some beloved Dolly Parton songs into my music therapy practice over the years.
Movement
Two of my most requested Dolly Parton songs include 9-to-5 and Jolene, which are both great options to encourage movement in music therapy. In my work with older adults, many of my clients have lost physical strength, due to aging and disease processes, and it can be difficult to find ways to motivate them to move. When I start singing these iconic songs, it is rare not to see toes tapping, smiles on faces, and instruments shaking. These energetic and recognizable tunes make it difficult to sit still, and I often see a client or two (and even staff) get up and start dancing.
Reminiscence
Many of Dolly’s songs tell stories that are relevant to all of us. They tell stories about faith, family, love, and many other everyday experiences. Songs like this, such as The Coat of Many Colors, provide opportunities for reminiscence. Reminiscence can be very important for clients who are in memory care, who often have trouble remembering. However, I notice that when a song like “The Coat of Many Colors” is played, memories can naturally come to the surface after the music is played and I lead a discussion related to themes in the song. Through the use of this song, I have had many experiences of clients reminiscing about their mothers, and hobbies, such as sewing. Additionally, I have also used this song to encourage clients to reminisce about school years and their experiences with friends they had growing up.
Emotional Processing Through Song Parody
Another fun way to use these familiar songs is to take a favorite song, and create new lyrics for the familiar tune. This can be theme based, or any topic the client(s) desires. One example of this technique would be to take the song “9 to 5” and replace some or all of the lyrics with words and phrases a group of clients shares about their experiences working in their jobs when they were younger. Another songwriting example like this would be to take the song, “I Will Always Love You”, and use it with a client that is processing the loss of a loved one by having them write words and phrases that describe their loved one or their relationship with the loved one. In this case, leaving the words for the chorus as is and writing new verse lyrics could be an effective way of processing grief.
Through her many decades of producing music, Dolly Parton has brought a smile to countless people over the years. She was an amazingly talented musician, and her work has left a lasting imprint on this world. Though she will be missed by many, her legacy in the music world in addition to her philanthropic work will continue to impact future generations for a long time to come.
