(Jolene)
(Jolene)
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m warnin’ you, don’t come for my man (Jolene)
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Don’t take the chance because you think you can
You’re beautiful, beyond compare
Takes more than beauty and seductive stares
To come between a family and a happy man
Jolene, I’m a woman too
The games you play are nothing new
So you don’t want no heat with me, Jolene
We’ve been deep in love for twenty years
I raised that man, I raised his kids
I know my man better than he knows himself (Yeah, what?)
I can easily understand
Why you’re attracted to my man
But you don’t want this smoke, so shoot your shot with someone else (You heard me)
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m warnin’ you, woman, find you your own man
Jolene, I know I’m a queen, Jolene
I’m still a Creole banjee bitch from Louisianne (Don’t try me)
There’s a thousand girls in every room
That act as desperate as you do
You a bird, go on and sing your tune, Jolene (What?)
I had to have this talk with you
‘Cause I hate to have to act the fool
Your peace depends on how you move, Jolene
Me and my man crossed those valleys
Highs and lows and everything between
Good deeds roll in like tumblin’ weeds
I sleep good, happy
‘Cause you can’t dig up our planted seeds
I know my man’s gon’ stand by me, breathin’ in my gentle breeze (Ah)
I crossed those valleys
Highs and lows and everything between
Good deeds roll in like tumblin’ weeds
Good and happy
‘Cause you can’t dig up them planted seeds
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’ma stand by her, she will stand by me, Jolene
I’ma stand by him, he gon’ stand by me
(I’ma stand by her, she gon’ stand by me)
I’ma stand by him, he gon’ stand by me, Jolene
A Bold Reimagining of a Classic Tale
Beyoncé’s “JOLENE” transforms the narrative of the beloved classic into a fierce declaration of loyalty, self-assurance, and empowerment. Rather than pleading, Beyoncé’s version stands her ground, delivering a powerful warning to the titular Jolene. The lyrics assert the depth and resilience of a long-term relationship, highlighting a woman’s unwavering confidence in her partnership and herself. Beyoncé reclaims the narrative, shifting it from vulnerability to strength, and celebrates the unbreakable bonds formed through years of love, growth, and shared experience.
Defending Love with Confidence
The song candidly addresses themes of trust, commitment, and the trials that come with sustaining a relationship. By referencing her heritage and the years she has invested in her family, Beyoncé both personalizes and universalizes the message. The repeated warnings to Jolene serve not as threats, but as affirmations of self-worth and an unshakable sense of identity. This rendition turns the tables, making it a modern anthem for anyone fiercely protecting what they cherish.
Song Credits
- Songwriter: Beyoncé
- Release Year: 2024
- Label: Parkwood Entertainment, Columbia Records