Dolly Parton’s One Rule for Sabrina Carpenter Before Collaborating on “Please, Please, Please” Remix
Dolly Parton, the beloved country icon, has always been known for her values and strong personal boundaries, and her recent collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter is no exception. When Carpenter approached Parton for a remix of her song “Please, Please, Please” for the deluxe edition of her Short n’ Sweet album, Parton had one simple, yet firm rule: no profanity.
In an interview with Knox News, Dolly Parton shared that before she agreed to participate in the project, she made it clear to Sabrina that she doesn’t use foul language or speak disrespectfully about sacred matters. As Parton explained, “I told her, I said, ‘Now, I don’t cuss. I don’t make fun of Jesus. I don’t talk bad about God, and I don’t say dirty words on camera, but known to if I get mad enough.’” This heartfelt expression of her values was something that Parton was very upfront about, as she has always maintained a strong sense of integrity throughout her career.
Parton’s rule led to an adjustment in the remix’s lyrics. Specifically, Sabrina Carpenter modified the chorus of the song, removing the controversial word “motherf—er” and replacing it with the more respectful line, “I beg you, don’t embarrass me like the others.” This small yet meaningful change allowed the collaboration to move forward, showcasing both artists’ willingness to meet in the middle and respect each other’s boundaries.
On February 14, 2024, the country rendition of “Please, Please, Please” featuring Dolly Parton was released as part of Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet deluxe album. Carpenter shared her excitement with her fans, writing on Instagram, “Dolly and me singing in a pickup truck!!!!!! I am so honored to have one of my biggest idols on a song that means so much to me. ‘Short n’ Sweet’ deluxe is out now! Go watch and listen!!!! Love you forever @dollyparton 🤍🦋” The collaboration was further celebrated through a fun, lighthearted behind-the-scenes video posted by Dolly Parton on TikTok, where she and Carpenter bonded over the process of filming the music video.
The video, which is vintage-inspired, features Dolly Parton and Sabrina Carpenter in a playful scene where they drive down a country road in a pickup truck, with the police chasing them. The playful moments between the two women were evident in the video, with Carpenter greeting Dolly warmly as they shared laughs and compliments. “Hi, how are you doing?” Parton asks, to which Carpenter enthusiastically replies, “How are you? You look amazing!” Their natural chemistry and camaraderie are palpable, making it clear that both artists share a genuine mutual admiration.
The collaboration also features a clever, not-so-subtle nod to Carpenter’s ex, actor Barry Keoghan, with the inclusion of a handcuffed male character in the back of the truck. This visual element is a reference to the original music video, where Keoghan played a criminal. Fans of both artists were delighted by the playful and entertaining energy in the music video, which serves as a fun complement to the song’s catchy tune.
When asked who she would like to collaborate with next, Dolly Parton, as always, kept her response light-hearted and open, saying, “Whoever calls me that I like.” She added, “And I’ll say, ‘Yeah, I’ll do that!’” This reflects Parton’s continued openness to working with new artists and her willingness to explore fresh creative collaborations.
In conclusion, Dolly Parton’s collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter on the remix of “Please, Please, Please” is a perfect example of how two talented artists can respect each other’s values while coming together to create something special. Parton’s one rule regarding language was handled with grace, and the resulting song and music video showcase the positive energy and respect that both artists share. The collaboration is not just a musical success but a beautiful demonstration of mutual respect, authenticity, and the ability to adapt while staying true to oneself.