Dolly Parton didn’t just sing her way into stardom—she built an empire from the ground up. With a voice as iconic as her style, Parton didn’t stop at music.
She spun her talents into a legendary brand, weaving together books, movies, business ventures, and even a beloved theme park, all while staying rooted in her country music legacy. And it all began with her uncanny ability to turn life experiences into unforgettable songs—over 3,000 of them, in fact.
Among those timeless hits is “I Will Always Love You,” a song born from heartbreak and independence. Parton wrote it back in 1973 as she prepared to part ways with longtime collaborator Porter Wagoner, marking the start of her solo journey.
The emotion in that song—raw, resolute, and tender—struck a chord with millions. While Whitney Houston famously made the track a global anthem, Dolly’s version has a magic of its own, especially in her duet with country icon Vince Gill.
When the two shared the stage to perform “I Will Always Love You,” it was pure harmony. Their voices blended like they were made for each other, and fans couldn’t get enough. The performance has since racked up over three million views online, with glowing praise flooding the comments. “If ever two voices were perfect together it’s these two,” one fan wrote. Another chimed in, “So much talent between the two of them… They are national treasures!”
But not even the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll could claim a piece of Dolly’s crown. When Elvis Presley expressed interest in recording “I Will Always Love You,” Parton was thrilled—until she learned he wanted half the publishing rights.
As tempted as she was, she stood her ground. “I’m sorry, but I can’t give you the publishing,” she told his team. Heartbroken, she cried all night, but never wavered in her decision.
“You have to take care of your business!” she later explained. “These are my songs – they’re like my children. And I expect them to support me when I’m old!”
That blend of heart and hustle is exactly why Dolly Parton is more than a country star—she’s a legend, a trailblazer, and a boss in every sense of the word.
