Kenny Rogers Passes Away at 81

2020-03-21

Kenny Rogers “Eyes That See the Dark” Album Cover – Story by Kevin Toby

Kenny Rogers, the country musician behind hits such as “The Gambler” and Lucille,” has passed away

Famed country artist Kenny Rogers has passed away. He was 81.

“The Rogers family is sad to announce that Kenny Rogers passed away last night at 10:25 PM at the age of 81,” a statement from the country music legend’s family states. “Rogers passed away peacefully at home from natural causes under the care of hospice and surrounded by his family.”

The statement adds, “The family is planning a small private service at this time out of concern for the national COVID-19 emergency. They look forward to celebrating Kenny’s life publicly with his friends and fans at a later date.”

Rogers was born in Houston, Texas, as Kenneth Ray Rogers on Aug. 21, 1938. He broke out in the country music world but crossed over and became an international star with chart-topping pop songs and even moving into the acting realm.

Rogers is best known for his 1978 smash hit “The Gambler.” In 1966, he rose to the top of the charts in The New Christy Minstrels with Kim Carnes with songs such as “Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)” and “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town.”

He went solo in 1976 and saw more chart success with “Lucille,” “The Gambler,” “Coward of the County” and more. Rogers hit No. 1 on the pop charts in 1980 with “Lady,” written by Lionel Richie, and again in 1983 with his duet with Dolly Parton, “Islands in the Stream.” The two also released the successful singles “Real Love,” “You Can’t Make Old Friends” and released a holiday album together in 1984, “Once Upon a Christmas.”

Kenny often collaborated with the late Dottie West, including the popular songs “Every Time Two Fools Collide,” “All I Ever Need Is You” and “What Are We Doin’ in Love.”

Kenny became a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in 2013. He embarked on his farewell tour in 2015, and the run was cut short so Rogers could focus on his health.