Introduction
Dolly Parton’s “Apple Jack”: A Timeless Classic with Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt
In the rich tapestry of country music, few collaborations stand as vividly as the one between Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, and Linda Ronstadt. The trio, affectionately known as the “Trio,” brought together three of the most powerful voices in the genre. One of their standout tracks, “Apple Jack,” beautifully captures the essence of their harmonious collaboration and showcases their remarkable chemistry.
Released as part of their 1987 album Trio, “Apple Jack” is an upbeat and infectious tune that blends traditional country sounds with the unique vocal style of each artist. Written by Parton herself, the song tells the story of a love that is as refreshing as the fruit it’s named after—full of sweetness, warmth, and a touch of nostalgia. Through this song, Dolly Parton conveys a sense of longing and affection that is both simple and deeply emotional, a hallmark of her songwriting.
The magic of “Apple Jack” lies in its perfect blending of voices. Parton’s distinctive, high-pitched voice is complemented by Harris’s smoother, more mellow tones and Ronstadt’s rich, soulful style. Together, they create a vocal harmony that feels natural and organic. It’s a beautiful example of how each singer’s unique vocal style enhances the other, creating a sound that is greater than the sum of its parts.
The song is more than just a delightful melody; it is a celebration of friendship and the unbreakable bond between these legendary artists. Parton, Harris, and Ronstadt share a mutual respect for one another, which is evident in every note of this heartfelt performance. The trio’s collaboration on “Apple Jack” marked a peak in their careers, blending their distinct styles into a cohesive and memorable performance that still resonates with audiences today.
The beauty of “Apple Jack” lies not only in its melodic appeal but in its deeper themes of love and longing. Parton’s lyrics speak to the human experience of yearning for something lost, and the harmony between these three incredible women adds a timeless quality to the song. Their voices, much like the fruit in the song’s title, offer something familiar yet refreshing, a taste of nostalgia with a modern twist.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, or Linda Ronstadt, “Apple Jack” stands as a testament to the lasting power of great songwriting and even greater vocal harmonies. This song captures the essence of country music at its finest, brought to life by three of the genre’s most iconic voices.
Video
Lyrics
He lived by the apple orchard in this little orchard shack
His real name was Jackson Taylor but I called him AppleJack
Now old AppleJack was loved by everyone he ever knew
AppleJack picked apples but he picked the banjo tooPlay a song for me AppleJack, AppleJackPlay a song for me and I’ll sing
Play a song for me AppleJack, AppleJack
Play a song, let your banjo ringNow I’d go down to AppleJack’s almost everyday
We’d sit and we’d drink applejack that old AppleJack had made
Then he’d take his banjo down then he’d ask me if I’d sing
And he would play the banjo and I’d play my tambourinePlay a song for me AppleJack, AppleJack
Play a song for me and I’ll sing
Play a song for me AppleJack, AppleJack
Play a song, let your banjo ringThat’s when I was just a kid and now that I am grownAll I have are memories, old AppleJack is gone
Oh but he left me his banjo and it always takes me back
And everytime I play it I still hear AppleJackPlay a song for me AppleJack, AppleJack
Play a song for me and I’ll sing
Play a song for me AppleJack, AppleJack
Play a song, let your banjo ringPlay a song for me AppleJack, AppleJack
Play a song for me and I’ll sing
Play a song for me AppleJack, AppleJack
Play a song, let your banjo ringPlay a song for me AppleJack, AppleJack
Play a song for me and I’ll sing
Play a song for me AppleJack, AppleJack
Play a song, let your banjo ring