Dolly Parton pays homage to late husband Carl Dean with 'If You Hadn't Been There'
Briefly

Dolly Parton mourns the passing of her husband, Carl Dean, who died at age 82. In his memory, she released an emotionally charged ballad, "If You Hadn't Been There," expressing gratitude for his unwavering support throughout their 60-year relationship. Parton shared her cherished memories on Instagram, emphasizing that their love story doesn't end even after death. She also reflected on their first meeting when she was 18 and explained how experiences from their life together influenced her iconic songs like "Jolene." Dean, who preferred a private life, inspired many of her lyrics with his steadfast love and dedication.
Dolly Parton dedicated her song "If You Hadn't Been There" to her late husband, Carl Dean, highlighting their enduring love and shared memories over six decades.
Parton reminisced about meeting Dean at 18, noting, "I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old. We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together."
In a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, Parton said, "Like all great love stories, they never end. They live on in memory and song. He will always be the star of my life story."
"Jolene," a song inspired by a bank teller's attention to Dean, showcases how Parton interweaves real-life experiences into her music, illustrating their unique love story.
Read at www.npr.org
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