So many country songs come from real life. Romances, deaths, parents, childhood good and bad, and so forth. One Merle Haggard song, "Always Wanting You," emerged from his reportedly unrequited passion for fellow country superstar Dolly Parton. A married woman, she resolutely kept him at bay; their relationship was strictly friendly and professional. (Haggard was married too.) But Haggard seems to have never lost his intense ardor for Parton. What was the meaning of that song to him and how does it still resonate today, fifty years after its release?
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Per Saving Country Music, the two country singers crossed paths many times. Haggard recorded Parton's song, "Kentucky Gambler" and made it a number one hit. He also successfully covered another of her tunes, "The Seeker." She recorded one of his tracks, "You'll Always Be Special To Me." So they had a very fruitful relationship as a pair of highly visible professionals in the country music biz. Yet he seems to have been nurturing a secret love for her as well.
Merle Haggard And Dolly Parton Toured Together
The two were frequently talking, spending time with each other, and touring in the mid-1970s. Haggard apparently could not quell his feelings for Parton. Although their relationship was evidently platonic, he was mad about the lovely and talented singer and songwriter. If he could not have her, he could do the next best thing - write a song about his adoration for her!
He Wrote 'Always Wantng You' About His Feelings For Parton
Haggard was discreet enough not to name Parton in the song, but just about everyone guessed who it was about. Parton was also sensitive to the topic but she dodged any problematic controversy, referring to him just as her "special friend." The song was a chart-topping hit for Haggard. He did not get the iconic woman he wanted, yet he did get a successful track from knowing her. When he passed away in 2016, Parton compassionately said, "His heart was as tender as his love ballads. I loved him like a brother." Haggard's love for her will always live on in the beautiful song he wrote for her.
