“To Know Him Is to Love Him”: When Three Voices Became One Timeless Harmony
There are moments in music history that transcend mere performance, becoming indelible memories etched in our collective consciousness. One such moment arrived in 1987, not with a flashy debut, but with a harmonious convergence of three of the most revered voices in American music: Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, and Emmylou Harris. Their collaboration, the album simply titled Trio, was a long-awaited dream, a testament to enduring friendship and mutual admiration. And from this critically acclaimed, multi-platinum album emerged a single that soared straight to the top of the charts, capturing hearts with its pure, unadorned beauty: “To Know Him Is to Love Him.”
This exquisite rendition of Phil Spector‘s 1958 classic, originally a No. 1 hit for his group The Teddy Bears, found new life and resonance through the impeccable blend of Parton, Ronstadt, and Harris. Their version became a triumphant No. 1 hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in May 1987, also topping the Canadian country music chart. It was the lead single from the Trio album, which itself topped the Billboard Country albums chart and reached the top ten on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart, selling over 4 million units worldwide. The immediate success of “To Know Him Is to Love Him” was a powerful affirmation of the magic these three artists created together.
The story behind the Trio project is as compelling as the music itself. For over a decade, these three formidable women had dreamed of recording an album together. They were trailblazers in their own right, each a distinct and influential force in country, folk, and pop music. Dolly, the effervescent superstar and songwriting genius; Linda, the powerhouse vocalist with a knack for reimagining diverse genres; and Emmylou, the exquisite interpreter with a deep reverence for traditional roots music. Their individual careers were soaring, making scheduling a nightmare, and the complexities of different record labels further complicated matters. Yet, their mutual respect and genuine affection for one another fueled their perseverance. Sessions were sporadic throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, with some of the earlier recordings even appearing on their solo albums. Finally, in 1986, with producer George Massenburg at the helm, the stars aligned.
The decision to record “To Know Him Is to Love Him” for Trio was inspired. The song, a simple yet profound declaration of unwavering love and understanding, was given an almost sacred quality by their combined voices. Its meaning is timeless: it speaks to the idea that true love isn’t about fleeting attraction or superficial qualities, but about deep empathy and acceptance, even of flaws. “To know him is to love him,” the lyric simply states, implying a love so complete it bypasses judgment and embraces every facet of the beloved. In the hands of these three women, this message resonated with a vulnerability and wisdom that only seasoned artists could convey.
For listeners, particularly those who had followed their individual careers, this song was a revelation. It wasn’t about showboating; it was about the sublime art of harmony. Their voices, distinct yet perfectly interwoven, created a tapestry of sound that was both ethereal and deeply grounded. It evoked a sense of comfort and familiarity, like gathering around a hearth with cherished friends singing songs that felt like home. For many of us, it conjures images of quieter times, of evenings spent listening to albums, truly listening, letting the music wash over us and stir our deepest emotions.
The accompanying music video, directed by none other than George Lucas (Linda Ronstadt’s boyfriend at the time), further cemented the song’s place in popular culture, airing regularly on CMT and GAC. It was a visual complement to the sonic beauty, presenting the three legends in a setting that highlighted their effortless camaraderie and the purity of their art.
Decades later, “To Know Him Is to Love Him” remains a beacon of musical collaboration and heartfelt expression. It’s more than just a No. 1 hit; it’s a cherished memory for countless listeners, a poignant reminder of when three extraordinary women joined forces to create something truly magical and everlasting. It’s a song that speaks to the heart, a simple truth sung with profound sincerity, and a testament to the enduring power of harmony, both in music and in friendship.