Over 40 years after Dolly Parton famously denied Elvis Presley the rights to her iconic ballad, “I Will Always Love You,” the song remains a timeless masterpiece. In a remarkable twist of fate, a 13-year-old Austrian girl named Laura Kamhuber delivered an unforgettable performance of the song, earning widespread acclaim and millions of views on YouTube.
The History Behind “I Will Always Love You”
Originally released by Dolly Parton in 1974, “I Will Always Love You” was written as a heartfelt farewell to her professional partner, Porter Wagoner. When Elvis Presley expressed interest in recording the song, Parton was thrilled—until she learned it would cost her half of the publishing royalties. Despite her admiration for Presley, Parton turned down the offer, trusting her instincts.
Her decision paid off spectacularly in 1992 when Whitney Houston’s rendition for The Bodyguard soundtrack became a global sensation. With over 20 million copies sold, Houston’s version remains the best-selling single by a female solo artist, solidifying its place in music history.
Dolly Parton once said, “When Whitney’s version came out, I made enough money to buy Graceland.” She later expressed her gratitude for Houston’s extraordinary performance, especially after the pop icon’s untimely passing in 2012, stating, “Whitney, I will always love you. You will be missed.”
Laura Kamhuber’s Viral Moment
In 2013, Laura Kamhuber took the stage during the blind auditions of The Voice Kids (Germany). Choosing “I Will Always Love You” as her audition piece, she stunned the judges with her flawless rendition. German pop star Tim Bendzko humorously called it “the forbidden song,” referencing the vocal challenges of performing Houston’s legendary version.
Despite the daunting expectations, Kamhuber’s spine-tingling performance earned a standing ovation and praise from all three judges. Although she was later eliminated during the knockout rounds, her audition became a viral sensation. With over 226 million views, it remains the most-watched YouTube video by an Austrian artist, cementing her place in music history.
Laura Kamhuber’s Journey as Laura Lun
Now performing under the stage name Laura Lun, the talented artist has since released three albums, blending pop, country, and ballads. Her latest album, released in 2017, showcases her versatility and passion for music.
Why “I Will Always Love You” Is Still a Favorite
Whether it’s Dolly Parton’s heartfelt original, Whitney Houston’s record-breaking ballad, or Laura Kamhuber’s viral audition, “I Will Always Love You” continues to captivate audiences worldwide. This legendary song not only showcases extraordinary vocal talent but also tells a deeply emotional story that resonates with listeners across generations.