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Introduction
“You Are” stands as one of Dolly Parton’s most heartfelt love ballads, showcasing her remarkable ability to capture profound emotion through simple, sincere lyrics. Released in 1977 as part of her album “New Harvest… First Gathering,” this tender declaration of love represents a significant moment in Parton’s artistic journey as she began transitioning toward a more mainstream pop-country sound.
What makes this song particularly special is the genuine warmth that radiates through every note. Dolly’s crystalline vocals convey a vulnerability and devotion that feels incredibly personal, as if she’s sharing her deepest feelings with a close friend rather than performing for an audience. The gentle piano accompaniment and subtle orchestration create the perfect backdrop for her intimate delivery, allowing her voice to shine without unnecessary embellishment.
The song celebrates unconditional love in its purest form. Rather than relying on grand poetic metaphors, Dolly expresses affection through straightforward declarations that resonate with listeners precisely because of their simplicity and authenticity. There’s something profoundly moving about hearing someone express complete devotion with such unguarded sincerity.
While not as commercially successful as some of her other hits like “Jolene” or “9 to 5,” “You Are” has developed a special place in the hearts of Dolly’s devoted fans. It represents the emotional depth that has always distinguished her songwriting, even as her public persona embraced larger-than-life glamour and humor.
For many couples, this song has become a meaningful wedding selection or anniversary anthem, its timeless message of devotion transcending the decades since its release.
Video
Lyrics
(Dolly Parton)
Sometimes I try to count the ways and reasons that I love you
But I can never seem to count that far
I love you in a million ways and for a million reasons
But more than this I love you as you are
More than this I love you just as you are.
Chorus:
You are my inspiration, you are the song I sing
You are what makes me happy, you are my everything
You are my daily sunshine, you are my evening star
Everything Iâd ever hoped to find, thatâs what you are
Everything Iâll ever want for mine is what you are.
You are my thoughts when I’m awake, and my dreams when I’m asleep
You are the reason for my smile, you are the words I speak
Every role I play in life you play the leading part
Everything Iâll ever want or need is what you are
The only one Iâll ever want for me thatâs what you are.
Chorus:
You are my inspiration, you are the song I sing
You are what makes me happy, you are my everything
You are my daily sunshine, you are my evening star
Everything I ever had in mind is what you are
The only one I ever want for mine thatâs what you are.
Chorus:
You are my inspiration, you are the song I sing
You are what makes me happy, you are my everything
You are my daily sunshine, you are my evening star
Everything Iâd ever hoped to find is what you are
Everything I ever want for mine is what you are.
Oooh, ooh, I love you, ooh, ooh, I love you just as you are
Oooh, ooh, I love you, I love you…