With an astonishing recording career that now spans over seven decades, you would think music legend Kenny Rogers had already accomplished it all. However, you d be wrong. Rogers 2013 album You Can t Make Old Friends proves once again that he still has plenty to say. The album reunites Rogers with long-time friend and collaborator, Dolly Parton, for a brand new duet on the title track, "You Can t Make Old Friends." It was over thirty years ago when Kenny and Dolly released "Islands In The Stream, " which went on to become an instant classic and one of the most successful singles by a duo in history.
"What a thrill it was for me to work again with my buddy, Dolly Parton, and what a special song, " remarked Rogers. "Working with Dolly is always a little like going home. Everything felt comfortable. " With a collaboration of producers, including Kyle Lehning, Warren Hartman, and Dann Huff, You Can t Make Old Friends is Rogers first country album since the release of Water & Bridges in 2006. Rogers considers this release the most varied and complete album of his lifetime.
"I can honestly say this may be the best album I've ever recorded, " added Rogers. "The musical diversity is extraordinary. It goes from songs I would normally sing, to songs I would normally never even listen to. In this business, you do albums to both grow artistically, and for the sheer love of music. We chose what I think are the most diverse and best songs I've ever had access to." You Can't Make Old Friends showcases a certain familiarity that can be expected from Rogers, along with fresh twists of creativity that see the versatile Grammy Award-winner stretching his artistry into new musical territory. In addition to the great story songs and love songs Rogers has become well known for, flavors of rock and roll, soul, gospel, southern rock, zydeco, and sounds of the Southwest are embraced in this bold recording.
Kenny Rogers had a massive year in 2013, including the announcement of his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame this fall. Rogers also performed on the main stage at this year s Glastonbury Festival to a colossal audience on the grounds and around the UK as it was televised on BBC. His Through The Years World Tour included stops in Morocco, England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Switzerland, Canada and the U.S. In addition, a novel Rogers co-wrote with Mike Blakely, What Are The Chances, and Rogers New York Times Best Selling autobiography, Luck Or Something Like It, were both released. ~Editorial Reviews