Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers have been long time friends and duet partners…Kenny recently returned to Dollywood to help raise money and awareness for her Imagination Library, a book gifting program for kids from birth to age five.
Just days after announcing his retirement on the TODAY show, Kenny sang to a sold-out crowd, giving everyone a night to remember at Dollywood’s D.P. Celebrity Theatre. Fans from around the world made their way to Pigeon Forge for a chance to see “The Gambler” performing songs from his treasure chest of mega hits in an intimate setting.
You know she’s an amazing person. She can take something and really grow it into something fantastic. Dolly has shipped over 70 million books! I think it’s a great idea,” said Kenny Rogers. “I’m glad to be a part of this and I hope it helps!”
From “Coward Of The County,” “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love To Town,” and “The Gambler,” to “Islands In The Stream,” “Lady,” and “You Can’t Make Old Friends,” the crowd again and again erupted in thunderous applause.
Kenny’s performance raised over $60,000 for Dolly’s Imagination Library bringing the total raised during the benefit concert series to more than $635,000.
I’m so grateful to Kenny for wanting to help my Imagination Library,” said Dolly Parton. “He’s always been such a great friend to me and I’m so happy that he made time to come to Dollywood and I know the fans just loved it. Kenny, if you’re reading this, I want to you to know just how much I appreciate you and you know I’ll always love you!”
Watch Kenny and Dolly perform “We Got Tonight” live in 1985 from the Real Live Tour: