In 1973 country music icon Dolly Parton wrote a tribute song to her mentor Porter Wagoner. Entitled “I Will Always Love You”, Parton created a beautiful heartfelt ballad. It was popular enough that it reached number one on the US Hot Country chart. The song was a certifiable hit but its greatest impact was yet to come.
Universally recognized as a generational vocal talent, Whitney Houston had a record seven consecutive Billboard Hot 100 number ones from 1985 to 1987. But 30 years ago in November 1992, Houston was about to become the voice of her generation. It was during that month the soundtrack of The Bodyguard was released and Whitney’s rendition of “I Will Always Love You” was the lead single.
The song became a cultural phenomenon. It would spend a then-record 14 consecutive weeks atop Billboard’s Hot 100 and win two Grammy Awards. It is still the best selling single by a female artist ever recorded. The official music video of the song is below.
So the questions begs, what would Parton think of the song’s success? After all, it was her song. How would her recording when performed by a generational talent like Houston become an iconic anthem? There could certainly be some jealousy there. But not so?
In the interview below, Parton tells the story of the first time she heard Whitney’s version. She was in her car and had to pull over. Parton said, “I almost wrecked. I had to pull over cause I was so caught up in that by then. I had to pull over and listen to it but it was the most overwhelming feeling that a song of mine could be done so beautifully, so big, so overwhelming that it really (I) almost just had a heart attack right there. I’ll never forget it.”
She concluded by saying, “It’s still one of the proudest moments of my life.”
The following are 6 Leadership Lessons from Dolly Parton’s thoughts of Whitney Houston and the song “I Will Always Love You”:
The Power Of Partnership
When you put Dolly Parton’s songwriting prowess with Whitney Houston’s vocal brilliance, music history was made. Smart leaders are always looking for ways to partner with others. They understand partnerships multiply their strengths and compensate for their weaknesses.
Parton Celebrated The Success Of Others
It is in our human nature that it is much easier to weep with those who weep, than it is to rejoice with those who rejoice. Parton celebrated Whitney and song itself. Successful leaders are always pointing to others and celebrating what they are accomplishing. They think big picture.
Parton’s Attitude Determined Her Altitude
Parton is known for many things but her effervescent attitude is primary. She brightens every room she enters. Few people are as happy or genuinely kind as Parton. As a result, her positivity is a magnet for opportunities and a chance to impact others. Parton’s attitude made it easy to celebrate Whitney’s success.
Leaders Who Celebrate The Success Of Others Are Humble
An argument could be made that Parton thought the song was written for Porter Wagoner, but in fact, it was probably written for Whitney Houston when all is said and done. Her phrase “it was the most overwhelming feeling that a song of mine could be done so beautifully, so big, so overwhelming” shows Parton’s humility. It also shows how secure she is as a singer and performer.
Parton Was Already A Multi-Talented Success
Because Parton was already a successful singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, performer, and business leader. Her songwriting was one of her many revenue streams. “I Will Always Love You” was just one of her diversified assets. But this one hit big, really big which leads to my next point.
Leaders Who Are Generous Are Often Well Compensated
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “It is one of the true compensations of this life that a man cannot help another without also helping himself.” A Google search reveals that Elvis Presley first wanted to re-record “I Will Always Love You” but asked for half the publishing rights. Parton refused and she is glad she did. It is reported Parton made $10 million in royalties from Houston’s version.
My latest eBook is available for download. The Top 65 Leadership Quotes Of 2022 Part 1 is a resource every leader should have. Great quotes bring clarity and put into words who we intuitively feel as leaders. They give us wisdom and insights which advance the mission and vision of our organizations. This eBook includes thoughts and insights from leaders like Warren Buffett, Nick Saban, James Clear, Dawn Staley, Jurgen Klopp, Jerry Seinfeld, and even Ted Lasso. This resource will take you about 10 minutes to read but a lifetime to apply. You will want to stop and ponder the implications of each quote. Click HERE or on the image provided for immediate download!