Whitney Houston’s beautiful rendition of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You,” featured on the classic 1992 film The Bodyguard, is so iconic not many people even know it was a cover song.
It’s made over $10 million in royalties – and helped Parton do something amazing.
Houston’s cover of the song became an instant hit – and because Parton wrote it, she saw some pretty nice royalty checks. And because she’s a real one, Parton decided to use those royalties to invest some of those millions into a Black community.
Parton invested the money in Sevier Park, a hub for Black businesses in the South. Parton should be praised for the investment, which really helped Black businesses thrive and contribute to their community – but it was Houston’s iconic cover that made it all possible.
While fresh ideas and teamwork are important, more money for businesses means more opportunities. Sevier Park is a popular area covered in Black businesses, and ever since her investment, the neighborhood has been doing exceptionally well.
Houston’s hard work, success and talent are the reasons why this Black community is doing so well. We as Black people have brilliant ideas for our businesses and communities, but sometimes all we need is a little investment.