"Daughter" was written and sung by Lynn, who released the song in 1970. The song was autobiographical and, of course, later became the title for the biopic about Lynn, which was in turn named after the singer's autobiography. Actress Sissy Spacek won a Best Actress Oscar for portraying Lynn in the 1980 movie.
According to Rolling Stone, Lynn was rehearsing one day when the phrase "Well, I was born a coal miner's daughter" came to her. "'And I went on from there,' [Lynn said.] 'I made up the melody at the same time, line by line, like I always do.' Lynn had written strong verses for herself but never anything quite as directly personal before. This Number One country hit concerning hardscrabble life in Kentucky mining country would go on to share its title with a book and a film about the singer; her signature tune and life story, all wrapped tight in one prideful song."
