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A Timeless Classic: ‘Islands In The Stream’ by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers
‘Islands in the Stream’ by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers is an unforgettable classic. You have heard this upbeat hit single when Sunday’s Best music’s playing on your stereo. It’s a timeless piece that can never falter; even a hundred years may pass. What’s more, is how the song is meaningful for the veteran artists Parton and Rogers.
All About ‘Island In The Streams’ Hit
Because the disco era was dancing its way out of the 1980s, the iconic group Bee Gees ventured to other genres. They pushed their creativity to write songs for other artists. This turn of events gave birth to a solid gold tune called ‘Island in The Streams.’
The trio Barry, Maurice, and Robin Gibb first wrote the song for Marvin Gaye. The music is in an R&B melody but later changed to a country-pop beat. The transformation of musicality also paved the way for Kenny Rogers to record the song. He included it as the first single on his 1983 album ‘Eyes That See In The Dark’ featuring Dolly Parton.
If you don’t know, ‘Island In The Streams’ came from a novel of the same name written by Ernest Hemingway. It’s a posthumous novel of the iconic author released. His wife discovered it among his belongings and published the book.
It’s a hit single with legendary inspiration, iconic songwriters, and superstar singers.
Cemented Friendship of The Two Legends
Thanks to their collaboration, the two country music legends have solidified their friendship. We’re not talking about ten years but 30 years of mutual attachment.
Before their epic collaboration, the two achieved long-term success in their solo careers. They had duets and toured with other singers as well before their meeting. No one expected that a shining star could get shinier when they released ‘Islands In The Stream.’
Rogers told People magazine the story of how the hit single came about. The veteran artist has been singing it for four days on his L.A. studio. But he didn’t think it fits him or the album. Roger told Barry (Gibbs) that he didn’t want to do the song anymore.
Defeated, they thought of a way to spice up the piece. This is where Barry thought of Dolly Parton. At that time, Parton lived near Rogers studio. She showed up in her unique fashion, and the song never been the same.
The hit single grabbed the No. 1 position in the 1983 US charts from Bonnie Tyler’s ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart.’ Moreover, it sold over 2 million copies in the US. It is certified as platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.
‘Island In The Streams’ is a timeless classic all ages can enjoy. From its fascinating back story to its passionate melody, listeners are in for a sweet treat. It’s no wonder why Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers are a match made in country music heaven.
