Remembering Kenny Rogers' Songs Through the Years

Kenny Rogers, born in 1938 in Houston, Texas, first rose to fame with his band the First Edition (later renamed Kenny Rogers and The First Edition), with hits such as "Just Dropped In (to See What Condition My Condition Was In)," "But You Know I Love You" and "Ruby, Don't Take Your Love to Town."Show more

Rogers launched his solo career in 1976 with the album Love Lifted Me. Later that year, Rogers released a self-titled album, which featured the No. 1 hit "Lucille." His 1978 album The Gambler, which featured Rogers' signature song of the same title, was a smash hit. "The Gambler" won a aGrammy for Song of the Year and solidified Rogers as a country music superstar and pop crossover success. The song was added to the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry in 2018.

Rogers racked up 24 No. 1 hits throughout his career, including "Lady," "She Believes in Me" and "Coward of the County," and collaborated with fellow country stars such as Dottie West and Dolly Parton. With Parton, his longtime friend, Rogers recorded several beloved songs, including the duets "Real Love" and "Islands in the Stream." In 2013, they reunited for "You Can't Make Old Friends."

In 2015, Rogers announced his retirement, explaining that he wanted to spend more time with his family.

Rogers launched a farewell tour in 2015, which he continued throughout 2017, but called off the remaining dates in 2018 due to health challenges.

Rogers was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2013. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Country Music Association that same year.

The country music legend, songwriter, actor and producer, passed away at his home in Georgia from natural causes on March 20, 2020. He was 81.

According to a statement from Rogers' family, the singer “passed away peacefully at home from natural causes under the care of hospice and surrounded by his family.”

Rest in peace, Kenny Rogers.

WideOpenCountry.com