Review
Dolly Parton's '9 to 5 and Odd Jobs' is a vibrant tapestry of working-class tales, woven with threads of country, folk, and pop. Released in the crisp autumn of 1980, this album is a testament to Parton's chameleon-like ability to inhabit diverse musical landscapes. The title track, '9 to 5,' soars beyond its cinematic origins, becoming an anthem for the everyday hero punching the clock.
Parton's golden voice breathes new life into folk classics like 'The House of the Rising Sun' and Woody Guthrie's 'Deportee (Plane Wreck At Los Gatos),' while her original compositions shine with equal brilliance. The album's production, helmed by Mike Post with Gregg Perry's touch on the title track, creates a sonic palette that's both authentic and accessible, painting a portrait of America's workforce in tones both joyful and melancholic.
This collection of songs stands as a pivotal moment in Parton's illustrious career, marking a return to her country roots while still embracing her crossover appeal. For ten straight weeks, it reigned supreme on the country albums chart, its popularity as enduring as the work ethic it celebrates. '9 to 5 and Odd Jobs' is more than music; it's a lyrical love letter to the unsung heroes of the everyday grind, penned by an artist at the height of her powers. - Soraya
