Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton Reunite for Their Final Performance of “Islands In The Stream”
Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton shared an unforgettable moment on stage when they performed “Islands in the Stream” together for the final time during Rogers’ retirement concert. The legendary country-pop icon chose the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville for his farewell event on October 25, 2017, bringing together a star-studded lineup of friends and collaborators. The night served as both a celebration of his remarkable 60-year career and a heartfelt goodbye to his fans who had followed him through decades of timeless hits.
While the show was packed with stellar performances, the emotional peak came when Dolly Parton joined Kenny on stage for three songs, including their iconic 1983 duet, “Islands in the Stream.” The chemistry between them was undeniable, their voices blending effortlessly just as they had more than three decades earlier. Watching them share laughter, warmth, and harmony, the audience could sense that this was not merely a performance—it was a moment of genuine connection and friendship, years in the making.
Before the opening chords of “Islands in the Stream,” Rogers took a moment to speak to the audience with deep sincerity. “Tonight is as much about me saying thank you as it is goodbye,” he said softly. “It’s been 60 years of great talent.” Parton, ever the showwoman with a touch of humor and heart, smiled and replied, “I can’t think of anyone I’d rather sail away with—and everybody gets to sing along on this one. Are you ready for our final ‘Islands in the Stream?’”
When they began to sing, time seemed to stand still. Rogers’ gravelly tone paired perfectly with Parton’s crystalline voice, creating a harmony that resonated throughout the arena. Fans swayed, couples held hands, and the energy in the room became electric yet tender. As the song reached its final chorus, the two stars embraced—an unspoken acknowledgment of their long journey together. For many in the crowd, it was more than a concert; it was the closing of an era in country music.
The audience responded with roaring applause and visible emotion, their cheers mixing with tears and smiles. Rogers and Parton had shared a musical partnership spanning decades, and that bond radiated from the stage. Their performance felt like a reunion between old friends who had lived, laughed, and created history together. As they wrapped up the show, they left fans not in sorrow, but in gratitude for having witnessed such a perfect farewell duet.
During the farewell concert, Dolly also performed two more songs with Rogers: their moving 2013 duet “You Can’t Make Old Friends” and her signature ballad “I Will Always Love You.” The night featured an incredible roster of guest artists, including Kris Kristofferson, Alison Krauss, Travis Tritt, Reba McEntire, Lionel Richie, Linda Davis, and even The Flaming Lips. The star lineup reflected just how respected and loved Rogers was within the music industry after more than seven decades of unforgettable contributions.
When Rogers announced his retirement tour, The Gambler’s Last Deal, in 2015, he knew it would be his final bow. The tour spanned 2016 and 2017, giving fans across the globe one last opportunity to see him live. However, declining health and his battle with bladder cancer eventually forced him to cancel his remaining 2018 performances on doctor’s orders. Despite his health struggles, he remained gracious and optimistic, expressing nothing but appreciation for the fans who had supported him throughout his life.
On March 20, 2020, Kenny Rogers passed away peacefully at his home at the age of 81, surrounded by loved ones. His passing marked the end of an extraordinary career but left behind an unmatched legacy. “Islands in the Stream,” the duet he shared with Parton, remains one of the most cherished songs in country-pop history—an enduring reminder of their friendship and shared artistry that transcended time and trend.
“Islands in the Stream” remains Rogers’ most commercially successful single, achieving triple Platinum certification in the United States. The magic between him and Parton extended beyond that one song—their earlier 1980 collaboration, “Lady,” also topped the Billboard Hot 100, remaining at number one for six consecutive weeks. Together, they represented the perfect balance between storytelling and showmanship, their duets serving as a bridge between classic country and contemporary pop appeal.
Even years later, their voices continue to echo through the hearts of fans. Watching their final performance feels like stepping back into a golden age of music where sincerity and friendship guided the melody. Rogers’ legacy lives on not only through his timeless hits but also through the warmth and humanity he shared with Dolly Parton on that Nashville stage—a moment that remains one of the most touching farewells in country music history.
