KENNY ROGERS AND DOLLY PARTON ANNOUNCE ONE FINAL DUET PERFORMANCE IN NASHVILLE
Country music fans around the world are preparing for an emotional farewell as Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton — one of the most beloved duos in music history — have announced they will share the stage one last time in Nashville, Tennessee, later this year. The news, revealed on July 18, marks the end of an era as Rogers prepares to retire from touring after an extraordinary six-decade career.
The performance will reunite the legendary pair who gave the world the timeless hit “Islands in the Stream”, a song that not only topped charts around the world but also became a symbol of friendship, chemistry, and musical magic that transcended generations. For both Dolly and Kenny, this final duet isn’t just another show — it’s a heartfelt goodbye to the stage they’ve shared so many times and the audiences who have loved them for decades.
“I can’t think of a better way to close this chapter than singing one last time with my friend, Dolly,” Rogers said with emotion. “We’ve shared so many memories together — on stage, in the studio, and in life. It feels right that we end it the way it began: with a song.”
Dolly Parton echoed the sentiment, adding her signature warmth and humor: “Kenny and I have been like musical soulmates all these years. He’s one of the best friends I’ve ever had, and I’m honored to share this moment with him. I’m gonna miss singing with him — and I know the fans will too.”
The upcoming concert — set to take place at Bridgestone Arena in the heart of Music City — will serve as the grand finale of Rogers’ farewell tour, The Gambler’s Last Deal. The event promises to be a night of nostalgia, laughter, and heartfelt emotion, featuring not only Dolly and Kenny’s iconic duets but also tributes to Rogers’ incredible catalogue, including classics like “The Gambler,” “Lucille,” “Lady,” and “Coward of the County.”
For fans, this final performance represents more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of two artists whose voices defined the golden age of country and pop crossover. Their friendship, which began in the early 1980s, has endured through decades of changing trends, personal triumphs, and shared laughter. Onstage, their chemistry has always been undeniable — full of playfulness, tenderness, and respect — qualities that made their collaborations so unforgettable.
Music historians and fans alike regard “Islands in the Stream”, written by Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees, as one of the greatest duets ever recorded. Its enduring appeal lies not only in the melody and lyrics but in the unmistakable connection between Rogers and Parton — two voices blending as one, representing the very best of storytelling in song.
As Rogers prepares to step away from touring, he leaves behind a legacy few can match — more than 120 hit singles, 24 number one songs, and countless awards, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His decision to retire comes after a lifetime devoted to music, family, and philanthropy. “I’ve had an incredible career,” he said. “But it’s time for me to stay home with my family, watch my boys grow up, and enjoy the quiet things in life.”
For Dolly Parton, this moment is bittersweet. “It’s hard to say goodbye,” she admitted. “But I’ll always be grateful for every song, every laugh, and every hug. Kenny’s not just a partner in music — he’s family.”
As the countdown begins for this once-in-a-lifetime concert, fans from around the world are expected to flock to Nashville to witness two living legends share the spotlight one last time. It will be a night of tears, smiles, and timeless songs — a fitting farewell to one of the greatest partnerships in country music history.
Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton — together again, one last time, singing the words that have united generations:
“Islands in the stream, that is what we are…”