No, Dolly Parton did not write a song specifically for Elvis Presley to record. However, Elvis famously wanted to record his own version of her iconic hit, "I Will Always Love You."
Dolly Parton composed the timeless classic "I Will Always Love You" in 1973. While it was not written with Elvis in mind, the legendary "King of Rock and Roll" developed a keen interest in covering the song, recognizing its profound emotional depth and commercial potential.
The Near Collaboration and Missed Opportunity
Elvis Presley, through his formidable manager Colonel Tom Parker, expressed a strong desire for Elvis to record "I Will Always Love You." This was a monumental opportunity for Parton, as an Elvis cover would have significantly boosted her song's reach and secured substantial financial success.
- The Proposition: Elvis was ready to head into the studio to record his rendition, with Parton even planning to be present for the session.
- The Sticking Point: The deal presented a common industry practice at the time: the songwriter would need to sign over half of the song's publishing rights. Dolly Parton, a shrewd businesswoman and deeply committed to retaining ownership of her creative works, firmly declined this condition.
- Parton's Resolution: Despite the immense pressure and the allure of an Elvis endorsement, Parton stood her ground. She has openly discussed her decision, expressing both a tinge of sadness for the missed collaboration with such an icon and a strong sense of pride in her foresight. This decision proved to be pivotal, as her full ownership of "I Will Always Love You" allowed her to reap immense benefits when Whitney Houston's cover became a global phenomenon years later.
A Song About Elvis, Not For Him
Interestingly, Dolly Parton later reflected on this significant moment in a song about Elvis. She shared that she had a vivid dream where Elvis was singing "I Will Always Love You." This moving experience inspired her to write a song recounting this dream and her unique connection to the King, further intertwining their musical legacies, even without a direct collaboration on a new track specifically intended for his performance. This showcases her deep respect and admiration for Elvis, despite their professional disagreement.
| Song Title | Primary Purpose / Written For | Elvis Presley's Connection | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| I Will Always Love You | Dolly Parton (originally as a farewell to Porter Wagoner) | Elvis wanted to record a cover version, but the deal fell through. | Not recorded by Elvis; later a massive hit for Whitney Houston. |
| Unnamed Song About Elvis | Dolly Parton (for her own album) | Inspired by her dream of Elvis singing "I Will Always Love You." | Recorded by Dolly Parton, not Elvis; showcases her personal reflection. |
While Elvis never recorded "I Will Always Love You," the compelling story of his near-cover remains a significant chapter in the song's rich history, illustrating Dolly Parton's unwavering commitment to her artistic and business independence.
