In Memoriam
Kenny Rogers
August 21, 1938 – March 20, 2020 · aged 81
Country · Pop
Kenneth Ray Rogers possessed a uniquely warm, gravelly voice that made him one of the most successful crossover artists in the history of country and pop music. Born into poverty in Texas in 1938, Rogers initially dabbled in jazz and psychedelic rock before finding his true calling in country music. He was a master storyteller, utilizing his smooth, conversational delivery to turn narrative songs into massive global hits. His 1978 signature anthem, 'The Gambler,' not only topped the charts but essentially created an entire franchise, inspiring a series of television movies in which he starred. He was equally dominant in the realm of romantic duets, particularly the massively successful 1983 hit 'Islands in the Stream' alongside Dolly Parton. Across his staggering career, he sold over 100 million records worldwide. Rogers passed away peacefully from natural causes under hospice care on March 20, 2020, at the age of 81.
Milestones
The Gambler, Lucille, Islands in the Stream
Also remembered in 2020
- Bill Withers (1938–2020)
- Eddie Van Halen (1955–2020)
- Little Richard (1932–2020)
- Neil Peart (1952–2020)