Dolly Parton Releases New Song in Honor of Late Husband, Carl Dean

 

Dolly Parton Releases New Song in Honor of Late Husband, Carl Dean

 

Dolly Parton Releases New Song in Honor of Late Husband, Carl Dean

Dolly Parton’s love story is one for the ages, and she honored her husband of nearly 60 years in the way only she can—with a song.

Over the course of her career, Dolly has written hundreds of songs, but this one has a special meaning after the death of her husband, Carl Dean. Carl passed away on March 3 at the age of 82. A few days later, Dolly shared “If You Hadn’t Been There” with her fans. It’s unclear when the song was recorded, but it is filled with emotion.

Shortly after thanking fans for their love and support, Dolly posted a clip of the song on Instagram and wrote, “Carl and I fell in love when I was 18 and he was 23, and like all great love stories, they never end. They live in memory and in song, and I dedicate this to him.” She paired the post with a photo of her hugging Carl around the neck.

The lyrics share Dolly’s feelings for her beloved husband, who led a very private life during their decades of marriage. She sings the beautiful lyrics:

If you hadn’t been there
Where would I be?
Without your trust, love and belief.
The ups and downs
We’ve always shared
And I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there.

If you hadn’t been there
Who would I be?
You’ve always seen the best of me
Your loving arms have cradled me
You held me close
And I believed.

I wouldn’t be here
If you hand’t been there
Holding my hand
Showing you care
You made me dream
More than a highway
And I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there

You are my rock
A soft place to land
My wings, my confidence, you understand
Your willingness beyond compare
Knew I wouldn’t be here if you hadn’t been there.

I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Pushing me on
When I was scared
I thank God and you for your loving care
And for giving me love with more to spare
You made me climb
And top the stairs
I wouldn’t be here if you hadn’t been there.

At times, Dolly’s iconic voice soars, and at other points in the song it wavers to almost a whisper. We can’t imagine a more beautiful tribute.

You may also like...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *