Tune In, Get Shocked: Iconic Songs With Surprising Backstories

6. I Will Always Love You - Dolly Parton

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Not written about a romantic relationship, this song, which was penned by none other than Dolly Parton and has gone down in history as one of the best love songs of all time, was made famous by the late, great Whitney Houston and is therefore especially shocking. Dolly penned this song for a friend, indeed. Dolly penned this song to her mentor Porter Wagoner to let him know exactly how much she loves and values him before separating ways and continuing on to work on her own. Although we know of no others, for us the song feels even more meaningful now. How often do you truly pause to tell platonic friends how much you cherish and adore them? As vital as passionate love is friendship love; thank you Dolly for reminding us! This disclosure gives the song a whole fresh perspective by highlighting the richness and complexity of interpersonal connections outside of romantic love. Dolly Parton's songwriting ability is demonstrated by her ability to convey such strong feelings in a song that one can understand in several ways. Originally designed as a poignant farewell to a mentor and friend, this song has evolved into an anthem for romantic love globally, a monument to its international appeal and the ability of music to transcend its initial setting. It also emphasizes the sometimes underappreciated value of platonic love and gratitude in our life, therefore reminding us that strong, close relationships take many different forms. The path this song takes from a personal message to a worldwide hit shows how art can have a life of its own and affect hearts and brains in ways the artist could never have thought possible.