Kenny Rogers may have passed away in 2020, but his music and legacy continue to touch hearts across generations. On a special night dedicated to the country legend, Reba McEntire took the stage to pay tribute to her longtime friend in a performance filled with energy and emotion.
The two-hour concert special, Kenny Rogers: All In For The Gambler, aired on CBS and streamed on Paramount+, showcasing unforgettable moments from a star-studded evening. Taped back in 2017 as a sendoff to Rogers’ incredible career, the event was packed with music, memories, and heartfelt tributes.
Reba, sporting a mustard yellow Kenny Rogers t-shirt, delivered a spirited version of “Reuben James,” a classic hit from Kenny Rogers & The First Edition. The performance had the crowd clapping, singing, and dancing along—a fitting celebration of a man who brought so much joy through his music.
“I just loved Kenny,” Reba shared warmly. “He was an incredible person—so funny, full of stories, and just great to be around. We toured Australia together, and I’ll never forget those memories. So when I was asked to be part of this tribute, it was an easy yes for a dear friend.”
The special also featured amazing performances from Chris Stapleton, Idina Menzel, Lady A, Lionel Richie, and Little Big Town—each delivering their own renditions of Rogers’ beloved hits like “The Gambler,” “Lucille,” “Lady,” and “Through the Years.”
To top it all off, Dolly Parton—Kenny’s longtime duet partner and cherished friend—shared some touching stories before closing the show with an emotional medley alongside vintage footage of Kenny himself. It was a moment that beautifully captured their one-of-a-kind friendship and the magic they created together.
Produced by Blackbird Presents, the tribute was a heartfelt celebration of Kenny’s life, career, and the massive impact he had on the music world. Executive producers Keith Wortman and Ken Levitan put it best: “Kenny Rogers’ impact on country music was matched only by the love and admiration shown to him by fans and fellow artists. He’ll always be in our hearts.”
