Dolly Parton completed her return to the country music fold with 1991’s Eagle When She Flies, a sturdy, charming album that would have fit neatly alongside her early 70s output.
Fans responded, delivering Dolly her first (non-compilation) Platinum album and giving her what would be her last #1 hit on the Country chart in ‘Rockin’ Years,’ a duet with Ricky Van Shelton. That track was written by Foyd Parton, Dolly’s brother.
Eagle When She Flies features a re-recorded version of ‘What a Heartache,’ which was first released on the Rhinestone soundtrack. In keeping with the rest of the album, this version strips away the poppier production for a more traditional sound.
Other standouts include opening track ‘If You Need Me’ (one of eight Parton compositions on the album) and ‘Silver and Gold,’ written by Carl Perkins with his two sons.
‘Best Woman Wins,’ the most upbeat track here, offers up an alternate universe ‘Jolene’ scenario where the singer fights back against the potential other woman.
My favorite track is closer ‘Wildest Dreams,’ a stirring song about an amicable break-up that sounds like a secular gospel classic.
Dolly’s discography is certainly a mixed bag, but Eagle When She Flies is a keeper, up there with Coat of Many Colors on the list I’m forming in my head.
Let’s drink a toast to what might have been
To all that we were, but can’t be again
And let’s just be thankful we parted as friends
Here’s to the past, let the future begin
[Chorus]
Oh, and here’s to your wildest dreams
And here’s to your everything
May your life be blessed with sweet happiness
Baby, here’s to your wildest dreams
[Verse 2]
I made a promise that I wouldn’t cry
You go chase your rainbows, go on reach for the sky
But come hold me close now, look deep in my eyes
Tell me you love me, then kiss me goodbye
[Chorus]
Oh, and here’s to your wildest dreams
And here’s to your everything
May your life be blessed with sweet happiness
Baby, here’s to your wildest dreams
[Bridge]
I’ll always love you and I’m on your side
In whatever you do, I will take pride
[Chorus]
Oh, and here’s to your wildest dreams
And here’s to your everything
May your life be blessed with sweet happiness
Baby, here’s to your wildest dreams
[Outro]
Baby, here’s to your wildest dreams
Dreams, dream on, baby
