Introduction
“To Know Him Is to Love Him” is a beautifully tender ballad that Dolly Parton performed as part of the iconic 1987 collaboration album “Trio” alongside Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt. Originally written by Phil Spector and first recorded by The Teddy Bears in 1958, the song has become a timeless classic, celebrated for its simple but profound reflection on love.
In “To Know Him Is to Love Him,” the lyrics express the depth of unconditional love and the belief that truly knowing someone is the path to loving them completely. The song captures the emotions of devotion, admiration, and affection, making it an anthem of deep, genuine connection. The message of the song resonates across time, speaking to the universal experience of how love deepens through understanding and intimacy.
Dolly Parton’s voice, full of warmth and sincerity, adds a distinct layer of depth to this heartfelt song. Alongside the harmonies of Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt, the three voices come together in perfect harmony, giving the song an ethereal and emotional quality. Dolly’s unique vocal tone, with its clarity and tenderness, helps bring the heartfelt nature of the lyrics to life, making the song feel both intimate and timeless.
Musically, the arrangement is soft and serene, with a gentle acoustic guitar and understated orchestration that allows the focus to remain on the harmony between the three voices. The slow tempo creates a reflective mood, allowing each note to linger and emphasize the emotional weight of the song’s message. The simplicity of the instrumentation enhances the song’s deep emotional resonance, making it a truly moving listening experience.
Released during a period when Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, and Linda Ronstadt were already country music icons in their own right, “To Know Him Is to Love Him” became one of the standout tracks on their “Trio” album. The album was a massive success, reaching the top of the charts and earning multiple awards for its beautiful harmonies and emotionally resonant performances.
For those who may be unfamiliar with “To Know Him Is to Love Him” by Dolly Parton, it is a beautiful, soul-stirring ballad that celebrates the power of love and the intimacy that grows through knowing someone deeply. Dolly’s heartfelt vocal performance, combined with the exquisite harmonies of Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt, makes this version of the song a timeless classic. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it, “To Know Him Is to Love Him” remains a moving reminder of the enduring power of love.