Kenny Rogers Announces Guest-Filled TV Special

Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center was the setting yesterday (2/4) for a press conference announcing Kenny Rogers: The First 50 Years. The artist himself was on hand to unveil details of the upcoming TV special, which will celebrate the singer’s hit-filled career with a star-studded list of musical guests. Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie, Alison Krauss, Wynonna and The Oak Ridge Boys are some of the big names already slated to appear on the show. The array of artists will be part of the performance, and a few will host different segments of the show traveling through Rogers’ six decades of hits.

The distributed press release promises “a rollicking celebration, filled with music and comedy from some of the biggest stars in the entertainment world performing, appearing and sharing stories about Kenny Rogers and his music.”

Kenny Rogers: The First 50 Years will tape on April 10 in Connecticut at the MGM Grand At Foxwoods and will be produced by Dreamcatcher Artist Management and Locomotive Entertainment Group. Filmed in hi-definition, digital 3D, the special will find the viewer “visually surrounded and fully immersed” in the concert. Mark Lucas, who recently directed 3D concert films for Dave Matthews and Kings of Leon, will direct. Producer Monty Powell, SESAC’s 2009 Songwriter of the Year, will serve as Musical Director.

Starting Februrary 11, tickets may be purchased here, throught Ticketmaster or by calling the MGM Grand at Foxwoods Box Office at 1-866-646-0609.

“When this was first proposed to me as a 50-year celebration, something about that sounded final, and I didn’t want that, so I suggested we call it ‘The First 50 Years,’” Rogers said.  “I will tell you this, the first 50 years TV show is gonna be awesome – the next 50 years TV show is gonna be a bitch.”

Details on the network airing the special, more guest stars and other surprises will be announced shortly.