Kenny Rogers is inducted into CMA’s Country Music Hall of Fame during a news conference on Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville.
Numerous artists and music industry members have offered tributes and memories of the late music legend Kenny Rogers, who died Friday (March 20) at his home in Georgia.
After he began recording as part of the band The Scholars in the late 1950s, and later as part of the New Christy Minstrels, Rogers found early radio success in the pop world as part of The First Edition (later renamed Kenny Rogers and The First Edition), with the 1968 hit “Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In),” followed by “Ruby Don’t Take Your Love To Town” in 1969. When the group broke up in the mid-’70s, Rogers transitioned to what would become a hugely successful solo career. His breakthrough solo hit “Lucille” came in 1977; he followed with several more hits, including the Dottie West collaborations “Every Time Two Fools Collide” and “Anyone Who Isn’t Me Tonight,” as well as “She Believed In Me” and the Don Schlitz-penned “The Gambler,” which would become one of Rogers’ signature hits, reach No. 1 on the country charts, earn Rogers a Grammy, and spawn a TV movie and several sequels.
Dolly Parton, who, alongside Rogers, released the Bee Gees-penned song “Islands In The Stream” in 1983, turning it into an iconic hit that topped both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Country chart, offered an emotional video tribute to her late singing partner.
“I know that we all know Kenny’s in a better place than we are today. But I’m pretty sure he’s going to be talking to God sometime today if he ain’t already,” she said. “And he’s going to be asking him to spread some light onto this darkness going on here.”
The hit duet led to a lifelong friendship between the two entertainers. They toured together, and released a collaborative Christmas album in 1984. In 2013, Rogers released the album You Can’t Make Old Friends, featuring Parton on the title track.
Rogers was a longtime friend and collaborator with Lionel Richie, who penned Rogers’ signature chart-topper “Lady.” When Richie released the country album Tuskegee in 2012, the album included a Richie/Rogers collaboration on the hit song. The two performed together several times throughout their careers, including at Bonnaroo in 2012.
Several others in the music community also offered their words of remembrance and admiration for the legendary star.
“The SESAC family is truly saddened to hear about the passing of Kenny Rogers. In both pop and country, Kenny was a music icon and made countless contributions to the world of entertainment over the decades. It was an incredible honor to recognize Kenny with the SESAC Legacy Award in 2017, and that’s undeniably how he’ll be remembered—a true legacy and inspiration for so many of us. We’ll miss him greatly.”
-John Josephson, Chairman/CEO, SESAC
We are saddened by the passing of the legendary country and pop superstar Kenny Rogers. Throughout his nearly seven-decade career, Rogers received three GRAMMY Awards and was honored with the Recording Academy’s President’s Merit Award in 1986 for the incredible impact he made on the music industry. As one of the first artists to successfully master the country/pop crossover, Rogers touched the lives of millions worldwide and led the way for many notable artists who followed. This is a great loss for the music industry, but his influence and legacy will continue. We’re thinking of his loved ones during this difficult time.
-Harvey Mason Jr., Chair/Interim President and CEO, Recording Academy
“The world has lost a great artist and interpreter of songs. I had the honor of announcing his election to the Country Music Hall of Fame, and was thrilled when I realized how much it meant to him. Even after all the other honors he had won, he was truly excited about this one. His accomplishments will live forever.”
–Bill Anderson
“No one bridged the gap between country and pop more often and better than K R. He will be missed but his music and diverse style of story-telling will live on forever.”
–Billy Ray Cyrus
“Going back to the late 70s and early 80s, we played a lot of dates together. He was one of the first artists to have a stage in the round, in the middle of the arena. He was also an accomplished photographer, and he shot some portraits of Howard and me. We really got to know Kenny through the years and are thankful for the memories. Love and prayers to his family.”
–David Bellamy, Bellamy Brothers
“I had so much respect for Kenny Rogers – he was from Houston, Texas too. He was a truly unique vocalist and artist who easily transitioned from a group (First Edition), a duo, solo artist and actor. If he did it, it was the best.”
–Gene Watson
“Kenny Rogers was a dear family friend and he was one of the kindest, nicest guys. A true gentleman. I had the privilege sharing the stage with him as well as on screen, in the film Rio Diablo. The Judds were honored to celebrate him a few years ago during his tribute concert. Rest In Peace, Kenny. We love you. ”
–Naomi Judd
“Not just my hero, but my friend. Thank you for your guidance my brother. The world has lost the greatest storyteller.”
–Phil Vassar
“Hearing Kenny Rogers’ magnificent voice singing MY lyrics, my music, to ‘I’m Missing You,’ that was definitely a highlight! When KR sang that song, he OWNED it. What a talent and what a sweet man. Kenny, you certainly made this world a better place. Rest In Peace my friend.”
–Steve Wariner
“What a career, what a talent, what a legacy. Now this world is left with a big shadow, center stage where Kenny Rogers stood. No one else can take his place. Now he’s taken his place amongst the Heavenly stars. It’s a very sad day for all of us. But God is smiling. Rest easy my friend.”
–Tanya Tucker
“Kenny Rogers was one of the greatest, I’ve been thinking about him all day since I heard the sad news. When we went into Hall of Fame together, truth is, I thought he was already in! To be inducted alongside him made it that much more of an honor. ‘The Gamber’ is a great story song, so well written, and Kenny had an ear for really great songs. He had a magic voice, instantly recognizable. I will miss my friend.”
– Bobby Bare, Country Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member
“Kenny Rogers was a dear friend of mine. I worked with him back in 1959 in a recording studio in Houston, Texas. He was working with a jazz group known as the Bobby Doyle Trio at the time. A lot of folks didn’t know this, but Kenny played the upright bass on my first song that charted in Houston. I have lost a great friend and the music world has lost what I refer to as a superstar. He became a legend in country music, pop music and movies, as well. Truly a great talent overall. He will definitely be missed by me and all of his fans.”
– Mickey Gilley
“‘I love you. Stay in touch. Take care of yourself. And, if you ever start recording again, I want to be there’—kind words from my longtime friend, Kenny Rogers. He was always near when you needed him, with that infectious smile that lit a room. I had the honor of working with Kenny, numerous times, over the last 35 years—each time I was left a better person. The songs he gave us and the friendships he collected, will keep his all in touch with our brother, our hero, our friend. Rest easy, Kenny…we will record again, and you will be there. I love you, too!”
– Randy Travis, Country Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member
“I am heartsick over the loss of my friend. We had many fun times-on and off stage! He took me around the world with him. Kenny was such a giving person. He taught me more than I could ever express. He invited me into the KR Family for which I am so thankful. Kenny shared everything… his talents, his stage… his family, friends and fans but most of all he shared his heart with me!! RIP Sweet Music Man.”
– Linda Davis
“I am filled with profound sadness with the loss of my friend and fellow artist, Kenny Rogers. God Bless him and his family. He will be greatly missed by all, but his outstanding legacy will live on. Love you, my friend.”
– Jerry Lee Lewis, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member
“Kenny Rogers was a pioneer in the music world. He was a friend of ALABAMA and will be missed by all. Rest in Peace.”
-Jeff Cook, ALABAMA
“Last night we lost a friend and one of the classic voices that easily melted county, rock and pop together in a way no one had done before. We will certainly miss you Kenny.”
-Teddy Gentry, ALABAMA
“With sadness I heard about the passing of a great Hall of Famer. Kenny Rogers was a special treasure to country music and the world. He will be missed by all.”
-Randy Owen, ALABAMA
“Thank you Kenny Rogers for being a part of our lives for so long. Your songs are woven into the fabric of our memories — classics, that will live on in the musical heart of a world that will miss you so much. Rest in peace, Gambler.”
-Charlie Daniels
“Kenny Rogers was truly an artist of the highest caliber. As a singer, songwriter, entertainer, and actor, he opened doors and enhanced the careers of many other artists just by recording a song with them. His voice and smooth singing style enabled him to move in and out of different musical genres like walking from one room to the next. But music was not his only creative outlet. He was also an amazing photographer. Rest well my brother, you gave us a lot in this life!”
-Ricky Skaggs
“Kenny was a nice man and a great entertainer who had a way of making a song all his own. He will be missed.”
-Ray Stevens
“I have lost an old friend and the world has lost a consummate entertainer. ‘The Gatlin Boys’ did hundreds of shows with ‘Kenneth’ as we called him. More often than not, I watched from the wings as he masterfully strutted and fretted his hour upon the stage. Last night, ‘the Gambler he broke even.'”
-Larry Gatlin
“Kenny was one of the few that successfully crossed genres. I’ve been a fan from a long time back, and we will all miss his voice and style.”
-John Anderson
“As long as I can remember there has been Kenny Rogers. It began the moment daddy brought home his ‘First Edition’ album with the soon to be hit single ‘Ruby Don’t Take Your Love to Town.’ That song put daddy on the map as a songwriter, and Kenny Rogers became a legend in the making. And I loved that voice! Many years later as a fledgling entertainer, I got to open for him and watch a true master at work. A dream come true was getting to sing with him. Totally unreal. Another special moment was having Kenny Rogers, the photographer, take one of my favorite portraits of dad and I. Ever. A true renaissance man. Kenny, thank you for a lifetime of music and memories. Sending deepest sympathies to his family.”
-Pam Tillis
“To one of the old guys that taught me so much, God Bless you, Kenny. Keep an eye out for Larry Butler.”
-Doug Gray, The Marshall Tucker Band
“Kenny Rogers was not only my friend, he was my mentor. The void he leaves will be impossible to fill. Countless memories ‘Through the Years’ will never leave the people’s lives he so graciously touched. Rest in peace, dear friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to Wanda and his beautiful family.”
-T.G. Sheppard
“Kenny Rogers was a true southern gentleman. He brought sophistication, elegance and class to country music. He broke down many barriers and paved the way for so many artists. He taught me the importance of work ethic. My heart goes out to the entire Rogers family.”
-Billy Dean
“The world has lost a legend and a great man. He was one of a kind and such an amazing talent. Prayers to Kenny’s family from ours.”
-Aaron Tippin
“I am deeply saddened by the news of Kenny Rogers’ passing. I am honored to say that I had the privilege and pleasure of working with Kenny on many occasions. He was always so kind, respectful, and uplifting to me. Being chosen by Kenny to perform at his Songwriters Hall of Fame induction in New York City years ago was one of the great honors of my career. Whenever I asked for his help at a charity event or show, Kenny always said yes. He was a wonderful, kind, loving, human being and a truly amazing artist who transcended all genres for every generation. Kenny will never be forgotten. I’ll forever be grateful and humbled to have known him and shared the stage with him. There will never be another Kenny Rogers. May God be with you, my friend.”
-Collin Raye
“In a time such as the days we are living through, Kenny Rogers embraces a known bright tomorrow. He left the pain in this world and has moved onto the shores of the everlasting. To his family we send our deepest condolences.”
-Marty Raybon, Shenandoah
“Kenny Rogers set the gold standard for the music industry. Restless Heart was honored to tour with him in our early years, and we’ll never forget his kindness and encouragement. We were fortunate to perform with him again in 2013 and he still had the easy going manner, the storytelling magic and the unforgettable voice that made him a global superstar. We were inspired by his artistry and comforted by his humanity. Our sincere condolences go out to his family and loved ones.”
-Dave Innis, Restless Heart
“Kenny’s songs, his voice and his style made a huge impact on me. He single-handedly changed the sound of the radio like no one else has since. What a wonderful human being as well. Thank you for your music, Kenny Rogers. You will be missed.”
-Larry Stewart, Restless Heart
“Kenny was always very kind to me. My mother was one of his biggest fans and he was very gracious to her as well. We will surely miss that unmistakable voice.”
-Darryl Worley
“What a super legend. He was always nice to me. God bless the “Sweet Music Man.”
-Sammy Kershaw
“The passing of Kenny Rogers is a great loss to the entertainment industry, but his musical legacy will endure forever.”
-Leroy Van Dyke
“Kenny was in Branson for a time with me. What a great talent and a great legend in our business. He was always so nice to me. I always respected his talents so much.”
-Moe Bandy
“I was deeply saddened by the news of Kenny’s passing. Early on, I was profoundly influenced by his work in ‘The First Edition.’ For me it represented an early country rock musical persona done in precise and ultimately professional style. He went on to stardom of staggering heights and remained gracious through it all. An extremely rare talent!”
-Henry Paul, BlackHawk / The Outlaws
ASCAP has launched “Music Unites Us,” a new resource especially for music creators to help respond to their unique needs due to the coronavirus pandemic.