“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“You Are” is a song by the legendary American singer-songwriter Dolly Parton. Released as part of her album “Heartbreaker” in 1978, “You Are” stands out as a heartfelt ballad that showcases Parton’s exceptional ability to convey deep emotion through her music. Known for her distinct voice and songwriting prowess, Dolly Parton delivers a tender and poignant performance in this track, further solidifying her reputation as one of country music’s most beloved and influential artists.
The song “You Are” exemplifies Parton’s talent for crafting melodic and memorable tunes that resonate with listeners. The track’s gentle instrumentation and sincere lyrics contribute to its enduring appeal, making it a noteworthy entry in Parton’s extensive catalog of music.
About The Composition
- Title: You Are
- Composer: Dolly Parton
- Premiere Date: 1978
- Album/Opus/Collection: Heartbreaker
- Genre: Country
Background
“You Are” was included in Dolly Parton’s twentieth studio album, “Heartbreaker,” which was released in 1978. The album marked a significant shift in Parton’s career as she moved towards a more mainstream pop sound, a transition that was met with both commercial success and critical acclaim. “You Are,” as part of this album, contributed to its success and helped Parton reach a wider audience beyond her country music roots.
The song itself is a testament to Parton’s songwriting skills, with its simple yet profound lyrics and emotive melody. It is one of the tracks that showcase her ability to blend country sensibilities with pop elements, a style that would become increasingly prominent in her subsequent works.
Musical Style
“You Are” features a soft and melodic arrangement, characterized by gentle acoustic guitar strumming and subtle orchestration. This ballad highlights Parton’s vocal range and emotional depth, as her voice seamlessly navigates the tender and introspective themes of the song. The musical composition complements the lyrical content, creating an intimate and reflective listening experience.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical themes of “You Are” revolve around love and appreciation. The song’s lyrics convey a heartfelt message of gratitude and admiration towards a loved one, capturing the essence of deep emotional connections. Parton’s sincere and straightforward lyrics resonate with listeners, offering a relatable portrayal of love’s enduring power.
Performance History
While “You Are” may not be one of Dolly Parton’s most frequently performed songs, it remains a cherished piece among her fans. Throughout her career, Parton has included songs from the “Heartbreaker” album in her live performances, often highlighting her versatility as an artist. The song’s gentle and introspective nature makes it a fitting choice for intimate settings and acoustic performances.
Cultural Impact
“You Are” has contributed to Dolly Parton’s legacy as a versatile and influential artist capable of crossing musical genres. While the song itself may not have achieved the same level of mainstream recognition as some of her other hits, it remains an important part of her discography. The “Heartbreaker” album, including “You Are,” played a role in broadening Parton’s appeal and establishing her as a crossover artist in the late 1970s.
Legacy
Today, “You Are” is regarded as a testament to Dolly Parton’s songwriting and vocal abilities. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless lyrics and emotional delivery, qualities that continue to resonate with audiences. As part of the “Heartbreaker” album, “You Are” contributed to Parton’s evolution as an artist and helped pave the way for her continued success in the music industry.
Conclusion
“You Are” by Dolly Parton is a beautiful example of her ability to craft emotionally resonant music that transcends genre boundaries. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody make it a standout track in her extensive catalog. I encourage you to explore “You Are” and other works by Dolly Parton to fully appreciate her impact on the world of music.
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Lyrics
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
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’d ever hoped to find
That’s what you are
Everything I’ll 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 I’ll ever want or need
Is what you are
The only one I’ll ever want for me
That’s what you are
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’ll ever want for ‘mine’
That’s what you are
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 ev’ning star
Everything I’d ever hoped to find
That’s what you are
Everything I’ll ever want for ‘mine’
Is what you are
Ah, I love you
Ah, I love you just as you are
Ah, I love you, I love you
Ah …