The Dolly Parton If You Hadn’t Been There song was released as a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, Carl Dean. The ballad, unveiled on March 6, 2025, reflects on their enduring love and the profound impact Dean had on her life and career. Carl Dean, who passed away on March 3 at the age of 82, was known for his private nature, rarely stepping into the spotlight despite his wife’s fame. The couple’s nearly 60-year marriage began in 1966, two years after they met outside of the Wishy Washy laundromat in Nashville when Parton was 18 years old.
Listen to Dolly’s tribute song and see the written lyrics below.
Dolly Parton If You Hadn’t Been There Music Video
In “If You Hadn’t Been There,” Parton pours her emotions into lyrics that celebrate Dean’s unwavering support and the love they shared. She reflects on how different her life might have been without him, acknowledging his role in inspiring her dreams and always seeing the best in her.
Dolly Parton If You Hadn’t Been There Lyrics
[Verse 1]
If you hadn’t been there
Where would I be?
Without your trust
Love and belief
The up’s and down’s
We’ve always shared
And I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
[Verse 2]
If you hadn’t been there
Well, who would I be?
You always see the best in me
You’re loving arms have cradled me
You held me close, and I believe
[Chorus]
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Holding my hand
Showing you care
You made me drеam
More than I dared
And I wouldn’t be hеre
If you hadn’t been there
[Bridge]
Oh, you are my rock (Mm)
A soft place to land
My wings, my confidence
You understand
You’re willingness
Beyond compare
No, I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
[Chorus]
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Pushing me on
When I was scared
I found God and you (And God and you)
Oh, for your loving care
And for giving me love
With more to spare
You made me climb
And top the stairs
I wouldn’t be here
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
I wouldn’t be here
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Oh I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Mmm
“I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old. We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together. 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, and I dedicate this song to him. ‘If You Hadn’t Been There’” Dolly shared on Instagram.
Dolly also shared a message to her fans, “I can’t reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me,” she continued. “He is in God’s arms now and I am okay with that. I will always love you.”
Parton’s poignant farewell to her husband not only honors their personal journey but also resonates with many who have experienced profound loss.
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