Dolly Parton is one of the most celebrated artists in country music history, with countless hits that have stood the test of time. But before “Jolene,” before “9 to 5”, before “I Will Always Love You,” there was “Joshua”—the song that gave Parton her first No. 1 hit and proved she was a star in her own right.
Though “Joshua” may not be as well-known today as some of her later classics, the song changed everything, setting her on the path to becoming the queen of country music.
The Story Behind “Joshua”
By 1970, Dolly Parton was already making a name for herself, but mostly as Porter Wagoner’s duet partner. While she had released solo music, she hadn’t yet broken through as a major country star. That all changed with “Joshua,” a song that perfectly captured her storytelling charm, Appalachian roots, and one-of-a-kind voice.
According to an article by American Songwriter, Parton wrote “Joshua” herself, drawing inspiration from the mountain men she knew growing up in rural Tennessee.
“I based the character on two or three mountain men I knew as a kid—reclusive people who lived alone way back in the mountains,” she shared in her 2020 book Songteller.
The song tells the story of a fearless young girl who seeks out a mysterious, rough-around-the-edges man named Joshua despite warnings that he’s mean and dangerous. Instead of finding a scary recluse, she discovers a kindhearted man who needs a little companionship—and, by the end of the song, she falls in love with him.
It’s a classic country love story, but with Parton’s signature wit and warmth, making it feel fun, fresh, and deeply personal.
The Song That Made Dolly Parton a Star
Released in November 1970, “Joshua” started gaining traction right away. It was different from the sad, somber country ballads of the time—this was upbeat, catchy, and full of energy.
By February 6, 1971, it had climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, making it Dolly Parton’s first-ever chart-topping hit as a solo artist.
This moment was huge. Until then, many saw her as just Porter Wagoner’s duet partner—but “Joshua” proved that she could stand independently.
For You
The song also earned Parton her first Grammy nomination for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Female, setting the stage for the countless awards and accolades she would win.
With “Joshua,” Dolly wasn’t just a singer anymore—she was a force to be reckoned with.
Why “Joshua” Still Matters Today
More than 50 years later, Dolly Parton’s catalog is packed with legendary songs, but “Joshua” holds a special place in history as the song that started it all.
It introduced the world to her gift for storytelling, her ability to create vivid, relatable characters, and her unique blend of country, bluegrass, and pop influences—all of which would define her career for decades.
While “Joshua” may not get as much attention today as songs like “Jolene” or “Coat of Many Colors,” it remains a defining moment in Dolly’s journey to superstardom.
Shop Dolly Parton
- Behind the Seams: My Life in RhinestonesBook · 2023The stories behind her stage outfits, written with Holly George-WarrenSee it on Amazon
- Dolly Parton’s Favorite Yellow Cake MixBaking · Duncan HinesFrom her Duncan Hines baking lineSee it on Amazon
- JoleneVinylWith “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You”See it on Amazon
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It was the first of many No. 1 hits, but more importantly, it was the song that proved Dolly Parton was meant to be a legend.
If you want to see Dolly bring this classic to life, watch her 2019 Grand Ole Opry performance of “Joshua”—a true reminder of the song that started it all.
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