Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton share stage for one last time on “Islands in the Stream”
On October 25, 2017, the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville became the site of a deeply emotional and historic musical occasion. During a star-studded farewell concert, country music legends Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton reunited on stage to perform their iconic 1983 chart-topping duet, “Islands in the Stream,” for the final time. This performance served as the emotional centerpiece of the evening, beautifully highlighting a professional partnership and a profound personal friendship that had spanned several decades in the public eye. The audience, clearly moved by the rare reunion, responded with an outpouring of affection that mirrored the warmth shared between the two performers.
The event was a major highlight of Rogers’ extensive farewell tour, which was titled The Gambler’s Last Deal. As the two legendary artists prepared to deliver their signature song one last time, Rogers paused to address the capacity crowd. He remarked that the evening was intended as both a final goodbye and a sincere expression of gratitude for his sixty years of talent and career. Parton, clearly moved by the moment, reciprocated the sentiment by expressing her deep affection for her longtime collaborator, stating she could think of no one else she would rather sail away with before the pair launched into the classic track. The chemistry between the two remained as palpable as ever, resonating with the audience who embraced the romantic vibe of the soft rock classic, with many couples in the arena singing along as the song reached its conclusion.
In addition to their most famous duet, the pair performed “You Can’t Make Old Friends,” a track they had released together in 2013. Parton also treated the crowd to a powerful rendition of her signature song, “I Will Always Love You.” The concert featured an incredibly impressive roster of guest performers who joined Rogers to celebrate his monumental legacy, including Kris Kristofferson, Alison Krauss, Travis Tritt, Reba McEntire, Lionel Richie, The Flaming Lips, and Linda Davis. This diverse group of artists reflected the vast network of friends and colleagues that Rogers had successfully cultivated throughout his seven decades in the music business, each offering their own tribute to his enduring influence.
Watch the full performance on page two
