They live in memory and in song, and I dedicate this to him.

The cover art features a photo of Parton and Dean from their younger days.

Hours before she released the song,Parton shared a notethanking fans for their support following Deans death.

Dolly Parton Dedicates New Song ‘If You Hadn’t Been There’ to Carl Dean

Dolly Parton in 2022Katherine Bomboy/NBC via Getty Images

This is a love note to family, friends, and fans.

I cant reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me.

He is in Gods arms now and I am okay with that.

I will always love you.

Dean will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with immediate family.