DOLLY PARTON AND KENNY ROGERS REUNITE FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE GOODBYE AT “THE KENNY ROGERS FAREWELL CONCERT” — OCTOBER 25, 2017
It was a night steeped in love, laughter, and music history when Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers took the stage together one last time at “All In for the Gambler: The Kenny Rogers Farewell Concert Celebration,” held on October 25, 2017, at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. The event marked the end of an era — a final duet between two of country music’s most cherished voices, whose friendship and musical partnership had spanned nearly four decades.
From the moment Dolly walked onto the stage to join Kenny, the crowd erupted in applause, knowing they were about to witness something truly historic. The pair, who had first captured hearts with their 1983 classic “Islands in the Stream,” shared smiles, jokes, and affectionate glances that spoke of a bond that went far beyond music.
“I’ve had so many wonderful years with this man,” Dolly told the cheering audience, her voice warm and full of emotion. “He’s always been there for me — in songs, in laughter, and in life.” Kenny, his eyes glistening, responded with his trademark wit: “You can’t make a career out of duetting with Dolly Parton unless you can keep up with her — and I tried my best for forty years.”
Together, they performed “Islands in the Stream” one final time, their harmonies as effortless and magical as they had been three decades earlier. The audience sang along word for word, many wiping away tears as the song filled the arena with joy, nostalgia, and a bittersweet sense of farewell.
As the music faded, Dolly and Kenny embraced tightly. “You never know how much you love somebody until you’re saying goodbye,” Dolly whispered, holding back tears. Kenny smiled and said softly, “You’ll never really get rid of me, you know that.”
The night featured performances from a star-studded lineup — including Reba McEntire, Lady Antebellum, Chris Stapleton, Little Big Town, and Idina Menzel — all paying tribute to Rogers’ legendary career. Yet, it was the chemistry between Kenny and Dolly that defined the evening — a final reminder of their enduring friendship, built on humor, respect, and an unspoken love for each other and the music they made.
Kenny Rogers officially retired after that night, stepping away from touring to spend time with his family. Just a few years later, in March 2020, he passed away at the age of 81 — but the memory of that evening, and of that final duet, continues to live in the hearts of millions.
Reflecting on the moment after his passing, Dolly said tearfully, “Kenny’s gone now, but I’ll always feel him with me when I sing. We were like brother and sister — we just happened to make beautiful music together.”
That night in Nashville, as the lights dimmed and the crowd stood in ovation, the legacy of Dolly & Kenny was sealed forever — a timeless partnership built on friendship, laughter, and songs that will echo through generations.
For everyone who was there, it wasn’t just a concert. It was a goodbye to one of country music’s greatest duos — and a celebration of a love that will never fade.