Behind the Meaning of Dolly Parton’s “My Tennessee Mountain Home”

Part of Dolly Parton’s magic is her pervasive humbleness. Though she isn’t afraid to toot her own horn from time to time, she has never forgotten where she came from–staying consistently grateful for her journey from having very little to becoming one of the greatest country stars of all time.

She dictates that journey in “My Tennessee Mountain Home.” This track sees her paint a visceral portrait of her life growing up. It not only helps bring her fans closer to her, but will also be relatable to many country fans who were raised similarly to Parton. Uncover the meaning behind this track, below.

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Behind the Meaning of Dolly Parton’s “My Tennessee Mountain Home”

Sittin’ on the front porch on a summer afternoon

In a straight-back chair on two legs, leaned against the wall

Watch the kids a-playin’ with June bugs on a string

And chase the glowin’ fireflies when evenin’ shadows fall

Parton grew up in Sevierville, Tennessee. She often speaks fondly of that corner of the U.S. and has made an effort to build up that community over the decades. She pays homage to Sevierville in “My Tennessee Mountain Home.”

The listener gets a pretty clear picture of what life was like for Parton as a kid. In my Tennessee mountain home / Life is as peaceful as a baby’s sigh / In my Tennessee mountain home / Crickets sing in the fields near by, she sings. It’s a cozy idea that will warm the heart of even the staunchest city slicker.

In my Tennessee mountain home

Life is as peaceful as a baby’s sigh

In my Tennessee mountain home

Crickets sing in the fields near by

The lyrics are chock full of stunning visuals that are, clearly, near and dear to Parton’s heart. From soaring hill tops to songbirds chirping along, Parton’s Tennessee Mountain Home seems taken straight out of a storybook.

Honeysuckle vine clings to the fence along the lane

Their fragrance makes the summer wind so sweet

And on a distant hilltop, an eagle spreads it’s wings

An’ a songbird on a fence post sings a melody

Though Parton’s success has taken her far away from that house, she keeps one foot in the door. This song is proof of that.

“I just always felt like I knew who I was, and I just try to stay anchored within myself and my beliefs,” Parton once said. Revisit this effigy of who Parton is, below.

In my Tennessee mountain home

Life is as peaceful as a baby’s sigh

In my Tennessee mountain home

Crickets sing in the fields near by

Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images