Dolly Parton Releases New Single
Dolly Parton has shared her heartfelt new single “If You Weren’t There” following the recent passing of her husband, Karl Thomas Dean.
A Tribute to Love and Loss
This ballad features Parton singing: “I thank God, and you / oh, for your loving care / and for giving me love / with a lot of suppression / you made me rise / and return the stairs / I was not.” The lyrics reflect on the profound impact her late husband had on her life and his role in shaping who she is today.
Parton showcased the artistic cover of the single on her Instagram account, featuring a photo of her embracing her husband during their younger years. The caption read: “I fell in love with Karl Dean when I was 18 years old.”
“We spent 60 precious and significant years together. Like all great love stories, they never end. They live in memory and song. He will always be the star of my life story, and I dedicate this song to him.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpzwxz1rx4s
Remembering Karl Dean
Dean passed away on Monday (March 3) in Nashville at the age of 82, a fact confirmed by Parton’s accounts on social media earlier this week. It was reported that he would be honored in a private ceremony with close family.
On March 6, the country icon released her first statement following Dean’s passing, expressing gratitude for the messages, cards, and flowers sent to honor her late husband. “I can’t personally respond to each of you, but please know what this means to me,” she said.
She continued, reflecting on his death: “Now he is in the hands of God, and I am at peace with this. I will always love you.”
