Dolly Parton, the universally beloved queen of country music, holds firm to her artistic control, a principle that famously extended to her iconic 1974 hit, “I Will Always Love You.” It’s a well-known anecdote that the song, a global phenomenon, was never recorded by Elvis Presley, despite his deep admiration for it. The reason lies not in a lack of appreciation, but in a business decision orchestrated by Presley’s manager, Colonel Tom Parker. [Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You”] was a song Parton herself took to the top of the charts, and her decision to retain full publishing rights was a pivotal moment in her career.
The King’s Admiration and a Manager’s Demands
Parton shared the story during a recent appearance on BBC Radio 2, clarifying that it was Colonel Tom Parker, Presley’s long-time manager, who blocked the recording. Parker, known for his shrewd and often aggressive business tactics, insisted on securing at least half the publishing rights for any Elvis recording. Parton, understanding the immense value and personal significance of “I Will Always Love You”—a song that had already achieved No. 1 status on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart—could not agree to this condition. She explained that the copyright was a crucial asset for her publishing company.
Priscilla Presley later shared with Parton that Elvis had sung “I Will Always Love You” to her as they were leaving the courthouse after their divorce, underscoring his personal connection to the song. Parton recalled that Presley “loved the song” and had even begun crafting his own interpretation. She was initially thrilled at the prospect of him recording it and had agreed to be present for the session. However, the night before, Parker’s call changed everything.
A Painful Decision and a Fortunate Outcome
Parton described the decision to refuse Parker’s terms as one of the most difficult of her career. “I cried all night,” she admitted, overwhelmed by the thought of turning down an Elvis Presley recording. Many advised her to accept, highlighting the unparalleled opportunity. However, Parton felt a strong inner conviction that she couldn’t relinquish control of such a significant piece of her work. “Something in my heart says, ‘Don’t do that,’” she recalled.
While she always wondered what Presley’s rendition would have sounded like, Parton’s prescience about the song’s enduring power proved accurate. The true global explosion of “I Will Always Love You” came in 1992 with Whitney Houston’s powerful cover for the soundtrack of the film “The Bodyguard.” Houston’s version shattered records, spending 14 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming a cultural touchstone. Parton candidly stated that the financial success from Houston’s rendition was so immense that it allowed her to purchase Graceland, Elvis Presley’s iconic estate.
“Rockstar” and a Dream of Elvis
In a poignant full-circle moment, Parton’s upcoming album, “Rockstar,” due November 17, features a song titled “I Dreamed About Elvis.” Written over two decades ago, the track was inspired by a dream Parton had where Elvis was singing “I Will Always Love You.” The album also includes Ronnie McDowell, an artist known for his vocal resemblance to Presley, further weaving the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll into Parton’s musical narrative. This new album, and particularly the song “I Dreamed About Elvis,” serves as a touching tribute to the enduring legacy of Presley and the profound impact he continues to have on artists like Dolly Parton.
References
- BBC Radio 2. (n.d.). Dolly Parton discusses Elvis Presley and “I Will Always Love You”.
- Billboard. (n.d.). Chart History: Dolly Parton.
- Billboard. (n.d.). Chart History: Whitney Houston.
- CMT. (2006). Dolly Parton Reflects on Her Greatest Moments.
- Parton, D. (n.d.). Rockstar [Album].
- Presley, P. (n.d.). Personal communication with D. Parton.