Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers Share an Emotional Goodbye at “The Kenny Rogers Farewell Concert” — October 25, 2017
Nashville, Tennessee — It was a night filled with laughter, tears, and timeless music as Dolly Parton joined her longtime friend and duet partner Kenny Rogers for one final performance together during “All In for the Gambler: The Kenny Rogers Farewell Concert Celebration” on October 25, 2017, at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. The sold-out event marked the end of Rogers’ extraordinary six-decade career — and an unforgettable final chapter in one of country music’s most beloved friendships.
From the moment Dolly walked onto the stage, the audience of more than 18,000 rose to their feet, knowing they were witnessing history. The two legends, who first joined forces in 1983 with the iconic duet “Islands in the Stream,” stood side by side one last time — smiling through tears as they shared stories, memories, and the kind of natural chemistry that had defined their partnership for over three decades.
“Before the night’s over,” Kenny said, looking at Dolly with his trademark grin, “I just want to say — I will always love you.” Dolly, visibly emotional, reached for his hand. “And I will always love you more,” she replied softly, her voice trembling as the crowd erupted in applause.
Their performance of “Islands in the Stream” that night was nothing short of magic. The opening chords of the familiar tune sent a wave of nostalgia through the arena. As they sang, their harmonies blended effortlessly — just as they had on the original recording that topped charts worldwide in 1983. Fans swayed, couples held hands, and some wiped away tears, realizing this was the last time they’d ever see the two icons share a stage.
But it wasn’t just about the music. It was about friendship — the kind that transcends fame, time, and distance. Over the years, Dolly and Kenny’s bond had become legendary in itself. They teased each other endlessly in interviews, shared heartfelt moments onstage, and spoke often about the deep mutual respect that kept them close for so long.
“I’ve had lots of friends,” Dolly said during the concert, “but there’s never been another like Kenny. We’ve been through so much together — the good times, the hard times, the laughs. He’s been like a brother to me.”
Kenny smiled, nodding as he added, “We’ve always had each other’s backs. I don’t think either of us could’ve done what we did without the other.”
Throughout the evening, a star-studded lineup of artists — including Reba McEntire, Little Big Town, Chris Stapleton, Idina Menzel, and Lionel Richie — took turns performing Rogers’ greatest hits, from “The Gambler” and “Lucille” to “Lady” and “Through the Years.” But it was Dolly’s presence that gave the night its soul. Their duet symbolized the end of an era — not just for Kenny’s career, but for a golden age of country music built on storytelling, sincerity, and heart.
As the final notes of “Islands in the Stream” faded, Dolly and Kenny embraced tightly. “I’m gonna miss you,” Dolly whispered, as the crowd gave them a standing ovation that lasted nearly five minutes. Kenny’s eyes glistened as he looked out at the audience one last time. “This is it,” he said softly. “This is the way I wanted it to end — with all of you, and with her.”
That night would be the last time the two legends ever performed together. Just over two and a half years later, on March 20, 2020, Kenny Rogers passed away at the age of 81. When Dolly heard the news, she released a video message through tears, saying, “I loved Kenny with all my heart. We had a bond deeper than words — and I’ll miss him until we sing together again someday.”
Today, fans still look back on that 2017 concert as one of the most moving moments in modern country music history — a farewell not just to a performer, but to a friendship that represented everything beautiful about the genre.
In the end, the night wasn’t just a goodbye. It was a promise — that the songs, the laughter, and the love shared between Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers would live on forever.