About the song
Dolly Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors” is a deeply personal and evocative song that has become one of her signature pieces. Released in 1971, this song reflects Parton’s unique storytelling ability and her connection to her roots, making it a standout track in her remarkable career.
Written by Dolly Parton herself, “Coat of Many Colors” tells a touching story inspired by Parton’s own childhood experiences. The song describes a coat made by Parton’s mother from scraps of fabric, which becomes a symbol of love and pride despite the family’s modest means. The narrative is both heartfelt and poignant, capturing the essence of finding beauty and worth in simple, homemade treasures.
“Coat of Many Colors” was included in the album of the same name, which showcases Parton’s talent for blending personal storytelling with her distinctive country sound. The album itself was well-received, but it was the song that truly resonated with audiences. Although it did not achieve major chart success, reaching only number 4 on the Billboard Country chart, it has had a lasting impact due to its emotional depth and universal appeal.
Dolly Parton’s performance of “Coat of Many Colors” is characterized by its warm, sincere delivery and its evocative melody. The song remains a cherished classic, celebrated for its ability to convey the values of family, love, and resilience. For those who appreciate music that touches the heart and reflects genuine personal experiences, “Coat of Many Colors” stands as a beautiful example of Dolly Parton’s exceptional ability to connect with her audience through storytelling and song.
Video
Lyrics
Back through the years
I go wonderin’ once again
Back to the seasons of my youth
I recall a box of rags that someone gave us
And how my momma put the rags to use
There were rags of many colors
But every piece was small
And I didn’t have a coat
And it was way down in the fall
Momma sewed the rags together
Sewin’ every piece with love
She made my coat of many colors
That I was so proud of
As she sewed, she told a story
From the Bible she had read
About a coat of many colors
Joseph wore and then she said
Perhaps this coat will bring you
Good luck and happiness
And I just couldn’t wait to wear it
And momma blessed it with a kiss
My coat of many colors
That my momma made for me
Made only from rags
But I wore it so proudly
Although we had no money
I was rich as I could be
In my coat of many colors
My momma made for me
So with patches on my britches
And holes in both my shoes
In my coat of many colors
I hurried off to school
Just to find the others laughing
And making fun of me
In my coat of many colors
My momma made for me
And oh, I couldn’t understand it
For I felt I was rich
And I told ’em of the love
My momma sewed in every stitch
And I told ’em all the story
Momma told me while she sewed
And how my coat of many colors
Was worth more than all their clothes
But they didn’t understand it
And I tried to make them see
That one is only poor
Only if they choose to be
Now I know we had no money
But I was rich as I could be
In my coat of many colors
My momma made for me
Made just for me