Dolly Parton proves to be a very versatile and timeless artist. In her performance as the gregarious and spunky bordello madame named Miss Mona in “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” she delivers an epic and heartfelt performance of her classic “I Will Always Love You.”
I Will Always Love You
In addition to the score of those Carol Hall songs that were recorded for the stage soundtrack, the film soundtrack also included two of Parton’s own compositions: “Sneakin’ Around,” which is a duet she shared with her co-star Burt Reynolds, and a masterful rework of her 1974 classic “I Will Always Love You.”
The latter made a massive comeback in the country charts, topping it in September 1982. Unlike the original 1974 version, the 1982 release saw more success, as it crossed over to the pop charts (#53 Pop and #17 Adult Contemporary) as well.
It is notably one of Parton’s classic staple songs, as it was written as a farewell to her former partner and mentor for seven years, Porter Wagoner.
The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas
One of Parton’s featured films focuses on a bordello madame named Miss Mona, running a very famous Texan establishment aptly named The Chicken Ranch. The film is co-written, produced, and directed by Colin Higgins. It is an adaptation of the 1978 Broadway musical of the same name.
Charles Durning was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the Texas governor. Golden Globe Award Nominations went to the film for Best Motion Picture (Comedy or Musical), and Parton for Best Actress in a Motion Picture (Comedy or Musical). It was the fourth highest-grossing live-action film of the 1980s, and the top-grossing of 1982, with Annie being second.
It’s definitely one of the best country movies out there!
Watch the rendition here!
Tags
Burt Reynolds, Dolly Parton