Fact Finder - Music

Fact
Dolly Parton and 'I Will Always Love You'
Category
Music
Subcategory
Famous Singers & Bands
Country
United States
Description
Dolly Parton wrote her two biggest hits, 'Jolene' and 'I Will Always Love You,' on the very same day. 'I Will Always Love You' was written as a farewell to her musical partner and mentor, Porter Wagoner, as she decided to pursue a solo career. Elvis Presley famously wanted to record the song, but his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, demanded 50% of the publishing rights. Despite being heartbroken, Parton refused, a savvy business move that eventually earned her millions when Whitney Houston covered it in 1992. Houston’s version became a global phenomenon, but Parton’s original country version also hit number one on the charts twice—once in 1974 and again in 1982 for the film 'The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.' Parton's songwriting prowess has made her one of the wealthiest and most respected figures in music.