About the song
“Silver and Gold” is a striking example of Dolly Parton’s ability to combine heartfelt emotion with masterful storytelling. Released in 1980 as part of her album 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs, this song is not only a testament to Parton’s remarkable talent but also a reflection of her deep connection with her audience through poignant lyrics and a touching melody.
“Silver and Gold” is a beautifully crafted song that delves into themes of love, loss, and the enduring value of heartfelt connections over material wealth. The song’s narrative revolves around the notion that the true treasures in life are not silver or gold but rather the love and meaningful relationships we cherish. Parton’s poignant delivery of these sentiments underscores her skill in translating deep emotional experiences into music that resonates with listeners.
Upon its release, “Silver and Gold” achieved significant success on the country music charts. It reached number 7 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, a testament to its broad appeal and Parton’s continued influence in the genre. The song’s success helped solidify Dolly Parton’s position as one of country music’s most beloved and enduring artists.
In addition to its chart performance, “Silver and Gold” has been praised for its lyrical depth and the warmth of Parton’s vocal performance. The song’s orchestration complements her voice perfectly, creating a rich, emotional experience that has touched many listeners over the years.
Though “Silver and Gold” did not receive specific awards, its impact on Dolly Parton’s career is evident. It reflects her ability to infuse her music with both personal and universal themes, ensuring that her songs continue to resonate with fans of all ages.
Overall, “Silver and Gold” stands as a testament to Dolly Parton’s extraordinary talent and her knack for crafting songs that capture the essence of the human experience. Its place in her discography highlights her exceptional ability to connect with her audience through music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Video
Lyrics
Well, I met an old man walkin’ down the street
His clothes were torn and tattered
With sandals on his feet
And I stopped to help him
And lend him a hand
He said, I love you so much
But you must understand
Silver and gold might buy you a home
But things of this world
They won’t last you long
And time has a way of turning us old
And time can’t be bought back with silver and gold
And he said to me, let’s rest for awhile
For I have some good news to share with you, child
He said, you can’t change this old world
The people need to know
That a dear savior died here
A long, long time ago
Silver and gold might buy you a home
But things of this world
They won’t last you long
And time has a way of turning us old
And time can’t be bought back with silver and gold
His eyes shown like diamonds
And his smile was heaven sent
His hair was long and flowing
And his back was slightly bent
And I knew he knew it
For that day I changed
As I watched him walk on
I forgot to get his name
He said, silver and gold can’t buy you a home
When this life has ended
And your time is gone
But you can live in a world where
You’ll never grow old
And things can’t be bought there with silver and gold
And time can’t be bought back with silver and gold