Released June 12, 1988 Genre R&B
pop | Recorded 1987 Length 4:33 | |
B-side "Where Does That Boy Hang Out" Format Cassette single
7" single
12" single
CD single | ||
"I'll Always Love You" is a song by American singer Taylor Dayne and the third single from her debut album, Tell It to My Heart. The song is a romantic ballad, showcasing Dayne's softer side—after the first two singles released were mainly Hi-NRG dance-pop tracks—paving her way to the adult contemporary charts. It features sensuous love lyrics accompanied by a saxophone instrumental performed by Richie Cannata, who has played for other mainstream acts, including the Billy Joel Band.
Contents
Dayne was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal for her performance on "I'll Always Love You" in 1989. The song was also nominated for Best R&B Song that year.
Chart performance
This single was her first crossover hit, being her first song on the adult contemporary radio format and her only song to chart on the R&B chart. It reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 on September 24, 1988.
Covers
In 1989, Tito Nieves Released a Salsa version which is on his album, Yo Quiero Cantar. In 2012, Dayne performed this song live on This American Life, using it to serenade comedian Tig Notaro, who, every time she had previously encountered Dayne, used to greet her by saying, "Excuse me, I'm sorry to bother you, but I just have to tell you. I love your voice."