Back in 1983, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton climbed to the top of the charts with their duet “Islands in the Stream.” In the more than 30 years since it was released, the song has come to be known as a classic. It was a beautiful duet that perfectly showcased both Rogers’ and Parton’s voices while mingling them in two-part harmony.
30 years later, the pair reunited for another song — a song thanking one another for the journey.
“There’s different kinds of soulmates,” said Parton. “It’s like with Kenny — I just see him and I smile.”
The pair say they’re best friends and “musical soulmates”. They connected with one another in a way that can’t be rivaled. They also say it’s never changed, no matter how long they spend apart.
Their new song, You Can’t Make Old Friends, is a tribute to the friendship that lasted over many years.
In the song, the two of them imagine what life would be like without the other.
“I think when we did Islands in the Stream, we connected musically,” said Rogers. “When we did You Can’t Make Old Friends, we connected personally. For me, it’s not important that this is a hit song. But it’s important historically to have it on tape.”
Standing alone on a stage, Rogers and Parton sang directly to one another, just as they had during their many performances of Islands in the Stream.
Islands in the Stream was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America after it sold more than two million copies. It was also voted best country duet of all time by CMT in 2005, prompting a reunion performance by Parton and Rogers.
Even now, Parton says she never gets tired of hearing it.
The song, “You Can’t Make Old Friends,” mingles their voices beautifully for a second time. Rogers’ voice has a smooth and deep quality while Parton’s adds a powerful harmony with her signature delicate vibrato.
The pair also recorded a Christmas album and had another chart-topper with their 1985 song Real Love. But they were never a permanent dual act, both of them leading successful solo careers for which they were each inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Parton was inducted in 1999 and Rogers in 2013.
In spite of their many hits and lasting legacy on country music, You Can’t Make Old Friends was a sweet ode to their friendship.
“In this business — where so much of it is business — to take the time for a moment and just enjoy someone for the person they are is a great gift,” said Rogers. “And I appreciate you always doing that with me. Out of everyone in the business, she is my best friend.”
Thirty years is certainly a long time to be friends, and most of us can only dream of having friendships that last that long.
“It’s been a wonderful journey,” said Parton. “I’m glad I got to walk that road with you.”
Watch their touching duet below.
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