Rising country artist’s first album includes ‘Son of Jolene,’ a continuation of the story behind Parton’s iconic hit
Rising country music artist Belles has released her debut album, Midwestern, through East Music Row Records, introducing a new chapter in her career and a fresh voice in country music.
The album draws on Belles’ upbringing and musical influences, exploring themes of chasing big dreams, navigating love and staying connected to one’s roots.
Belles has earned recognition for her vocal style and songwriting. Billboard described the artist as having “a penetrating voice, melodic command, strong hooks and a revisionist take on Country’s established textures.”
The album is led by “Son of Jolene,” a viral and charting single featuring the late country music icon Dolly Parton.
Written by Kelli Belles, Dan Harrison, Tyler Bank and Parton, the song builds on the story introduced in Parton’s 1973 hit “Jolene.” The new track imagines what might happen if Jolene’s son inherited his mother’s flirtatious ways.
Parton described the concept as clever in an interview with People magazine, saying she had never heard the story approached that way before.
“Son of Jolene” marked Parton’s return to radio with an original track since her 2006 duet with Brad Paisley, “When I Get Where I’m Going,” which reached No. 1. The song is also described as Parton’s final released collaboration before her death.
The single debuted at No. 51 on the Billboard Hot Shots chart for the week ending Sept. 12, 2026, according to the release. The track also helped Belles reach 1 million monthly listeners.
The song is gaining attention internationally, recently joining the rotation at BBC Radio 2.
Midwestern is available now. Listeners can hear the album through this link.
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