Welsh singer Bronwen Lewis, who gained attention for covering Dolly Parton’s songs in Welsh, recently collaborated with the country music icon on a new recording. Lewis, a singer-songwriter from Wales, began sharing her Welsh renditions of Parton’s songs online approximately two years ago. Parton’s niece, Jada Star, was captivated by Lewis’s version of “Jolene” and later approached the Welsh artist for a collaboration, which ultimately led to a joint recording with Parton.
Describing the experience as surreal, Lewis expressed gratitude for Parton’s belief in the project. The new Welsh rendition of “Jolene,” featuring vocals from Parton in both English and Welsh, marks Parton’s second posthumous release and was among her final recordings before her passing in August at the age of 80. Released on major streaming platforms, the song showcases a blend of Welsh and English lyrics.
Star, acknowledging Lewis’s talent and the emotional impact of the collaboration, emphasized the mutual respect shared between the artists and Parton. The collaboration, which stemmed from admiration for Parton’s music and Welsh heritage, highlights the universality of music and the emotional connections it can foster across languages and cultures.
With Welsh language heritage tracing back to ancient times and enduring historical suppression efforts, the collaboration symbolizes a celebration of Welsh culture and language. Lewis and Star hope that the project will not only resonate with listeners but also promote cross-cultural understanding and unity through shared emotional experiences.
The collaboration between Bronwen Lewis, Jada Star, and Dolly Parton represents a harmonious blend of musical talent, cultural appreciation, and heartfelt storytelling that transcends language barriers and resonates with audiences worldwide.
