I Know You're Married (But I Love You Still)
Dolly Parton · Once More [RCA Victor] [1970]
You know I love you and I always will
I know you're married but I love you still.
The day I met you my heart spoke to me
It said to love you through eternity
Now knowing that you were another's bride
I vowed I'll always be close by your side.
You know I love you and I always will
I know you're married but I love you still.
--- Instrumental ---
You broke a heart dear that would die for you
I'd give this world dear to belong to you
The game is over now and we've both lost
A broken heart will have to pay the cost.
You know I love you and I always will
I know you're married but I love you still...
I Know You're Married (But I Love You Still)
Released on the 1970 album Once More, this track by Dolly Parton stands as a defining example of her signature country-pop style. The song explores the complex emotions of enduring love despite marital infidelity, a theme that became central to her public persona and songwriting career. With its melodic structure and Parton's distinctive vocal delivery, the recording captures the bittersweet tension of unrequited devotion. It remains a staple of her discography, often performed live to resonate with audiences who recognize the universal struggle of holding onto affection while facing emotional obstacles. The composition reflects the folk and pop influences prevalent in her early work, cementing her status as a leading voice in American country music during the late 1960s and 1970s.