Aired on Treasure Island Oldies – November 17, 2024

It’s hard to imagine that someone would be able to pen two #1 hits during the same songwriting session. But that’s what one country music legend claims to have occurred in the early 70s.

Born in 1946, this singer/songwriter, actress, and philanthropist was one of twelve children. Still performing today, her career has entered a seventh decade. Over this period of time she has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making her one of the bestselling artists of all time.

One of those two #1 hits that she wrote in one session would make her millions of dollars alone. And to think she turned down Elvis Presley’s offer to record it.

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This talented artist got her big start in 1967 when country star Porter Wagoner offered her a regular spot on his syndicated TV show. That was the beginning of a seven-year relationship.

Committed to a solo career, she parted ways with Wagoner in 1974, performing for the last time on his TV show in April of that year.

Prior to the parting, she racked up two more #1 hits. The first one, which became a signature song for her, was “Jolene.” The second one, which she claims to have written at the same time in 1973, was a respectful farewell to her business partner and mentor Wagoner.

After it reached #1 on the country charts in June 1974, Elvis expressed his interest in recording the song. When she was informed by Elvis’ manager, Colonel Tom Parker, that, as standard procedure, she would have to hand over 50% of the publishing rights, she passed, saying, “’I’m really sorry,’ and I cried all night. ..And other people were saying, ‘You’re nuts. It’s Elvis Presley.’ …He would have killed it. Then when Whitney [Houston’s 1992 version from the movie, The Bodyguard] came out, I made enough money to buy Graceland,” she joked.

In 1982, the original version made to the #1 position again on the country charts, crossing over to the pop charts where it reached the #53 position, thanks to being part of the soundtrack for the musical comedy, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, starring her alongside Burt Reynolds.

The song was a turning point in Dolly Parton’s career. She left Porter Wagoner’s nest in high esteem, and Whitney Houston followed with her iconic rendition of “I Will Always Love You.”

YouTube listing of the song:

Dolly Parton version:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKsQR72HY0s

Whitney Houston version:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVAoXXVijUY

This “Moments In Time” story is yet another example of a “golden oldie” or forgotten favorite that earned its place in the evolution of Rock & Roll.