This episode explores Dolly Parton's partnership with Porter Wagoner, her decision to strike out on her own, and how she handled the 'hillbilly divorce'. It also discusses the harmonies in country and rock duets, Dolly's rise to fame, her prolific songwriting, and the impact of her song 'I Will Always Love You'.
Dolly Parton's departure from the Porter Wagner show marked a new chapter in her career where she could assert herself as an independent artist.
One of the most significant moments in Dolly Parton's career came with her song 'I Will Always Love You.'
Deep dives
Dolly and Porter's Dynamic: From Collaboration to Tension
Dolly Parton and Porter Wagner's musical partnership started off strong, with Dolly joining Porter's show and their duets becoming a hit. However, their relationship was fraught with tension, as Dolly wanted to pursue her own individual career and expand beyond the show. The strain between them eventually led to Dolly leaving the show, resulting in a bitter legal battle. Despite this, their connection endured, and they eventually reconciled before Porter's passing.
Dolly's Journey to Independence as an Artist
Dolly Parton's departure from the Porter Wagner show marked a new chapter in her career where she could assert herself as an independent artist. She started writing her own songs at an impressive pace, with hits like 'Jolene' propelling her into the spotlight. Dolly's success continued as she released a string of number one songs, while Porter's career declined.
The Power of 'I Will Always Love You'
One of the most significant moments in Dolly Parton's career came with her song 'I Will Always Love You.' The song was initially written as a way for Dolly to express her feelings to Porter as they parted ways. However, it gained even greater recognition when Whitney Houston recorded a version for the film 'The Bodyguard.' The song's impact resonated worldwide, making it one of the most beloved and successful songs by a female artist.
Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Despite the challenges and conflicts between Dolly Parton and Porter Wagner, their relationship ultimately evolved into one of forgiveness and reconciliation. Dolly paid off a million-dollar lawsuit from Porter and even purchased the rights to their publishing company, returning it to him as a gesture of goodwill. Their journey exemplifies the power of forgiveness and the ability to heal and remain connected despite past grievances.
Porter Wagoner led the most successful country music television show of its time, and in 1967 he needed a new “girl singer.” He turned to a 21 year old songwriter named Dolly Parton, who’d just recorded her first hit “Dumb Blonde.” So began a nearly decade-long partnership that, behind the scenes, was as contentious as it was commercially successful. This episode tells the story of the “Porter years,” the period during which Dolly arguably discovers her power - both as a performer and songwriter - and then makes the difficult (and radical for its time) decision to strike out on her own. Through interviews with Dolly, country music star Marty Stuart, Wagonmaster Buck Trent, and Porter’s daughter Deborah Wagoner, we explore how Dolly handled what’s sometimes called the great “hillbilly divorce” with such characteristic grace.
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