“Islands In The Stream” is considered an ageless country hit, which the Bee Gees originally wrote for Marvin Gaye as an R&B song. However, it was recorded by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton and released in August 1983 as the lead single from Rogers’ album Eyes That See in the Dark.
The song soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, as well as the Country and Adult Contemporary charts. In 2005, it was named the best country duet of all time by Country Music Television (CMT).
Many superstars have covered “Islands in the Stream” over the years, each adding their own style to the beloved classic. While these versions are praised in their own right, for many fans, the magic of the original duet between Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers remains unmatched. Their undeniable chemistry during live performances brought an extra level of emotion and connection to the song.
It was in 2005, when CMT named “Islands In The Stream” the top duet of all time. That same year, Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers reunited on stage for the first time in 15 years, delivering a memorable live performance of their iconic hit.
Enjoy the breathtaking performance in the video below:
It’s interesting to know how ‘Islands in the Stream’ transformed into a country-pop classic when Kenny Rogers decided to record it. This iconic song also marked a memorable collaboration between Rogers and Dolly Parton, two legends of country music. The track strengthened their bond and became a fan favorite over the years.
Though Kenny Rogers is no longer with us, his legacy continues. With millions of views on the video, it’s clear that Dolly and Kenny’s partnership in music remains timeless, just like their unforgettable hits.
