The Emmylou Harris Song That Triggered a Rift Between Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner
In the history of country music, the partnership between Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner remains one of the genre’s most celebrated collaborations. Yet, behind the spotlight, tensions often surfaced. One of the most striking examples — later recalled by Parton herself — was a dispute over the song To Daddy, which she wrote in the late 1970s.
What began as a friendly gesture turned into a moment of conflict. Emmylou Harris, who admired the song after hearing Parton sing it in the studio, wished to record it. Parton, eager to establish herself as a songwriter as well as a performer, agreed to give Harris the song, which was eventually released in 1978.
The decision did not sit well with Wagoner. Convinced the track would have been a major hit for Parton, he openly confronted her. In her memoir, Parton recalls Wagoner’s frustration: “What the hell do you think you’re doing? You can’t give her that song.” To which she replied: “Yes, I can, because it’s my song — and I’m trying to build myself as a songwriter.”
Harris’s version of To Daddy went on to chart successfully, validating Parton’s choice. But the episode deepened the strains in her working relationship with Wagoner.
In hindsight, the dispute had little negative effect on Parton’s career. If anything, it highlighted her determination to be recognized not only as a singer but also as a songwriter, and her generosity in supporting fellow artists.
Notably, To Daddy was a deeply personal composition. Parton has admitted it drew from childhood memories of her parents’ distant relationship. By giving the song away, she made a decision that was both artistic and personal, underlining her unique place in country music history as an artist who consistently placed creativity and loyalty above ego.