Many country artists, including Dolly Parton and Lionel Richie shared emotional tributes to Kenny Rogers following the news of the country music legend’s death late Friday night.
Kenny’s death was announced on his official social media, with a statement saying: ‘The Rogers family is sad to announce that Kenny Rogers passed away last night at 10:25PM at the age of 81. ‘Rogers passed away peacefully at home from natural causes under the care of hospice and surrounded by his family.’
Parton said she was expecting to wake up and see updates about coronavirus, but couldn’t believe it when she learned about Rogers’ death. His “Islands in the Stream” duet partner posted a tearful tribute on Twitter Saturday morning.
In a video message, Parton said: “I couldn’t believe it when I got up this morning and turned on the TV, checking to see what the coronavirus was doing, and it told me that my friend and singing partner Kenny Rogers had passed away.
“And I know that we all know Kenny’s in a better place than we are today, but I’m pretty sure he’s gonna be talking to God sometime today if he ain’t already, he’s gonna be asking him to spread some light on bunch of this darkness going here.
“But I love Kenny with all my heart. My heart’s broken and a big old chunk of it has gone with him today. ‘And I think that I can speak for all his family, his friends and fans when I say that I will always love you. God bless you, Kenny, fly high. Straight to the arms of God and to the rest of you, keep the faith.”
She added: “We all know that Kenny is in a better place than we are today, but I’m sure he’s going to be talking to God sometime today. He’s going to be asking Him to spread some light on the darkness that’s going on here. I loved Kenny with all my heart. My heart is broken, a big old chunk of it has gone with him today.
“You never know how much you love somebody until they’re gone. I’ve had so many wonderful years and wonderful times with my friend Kenny, but above all the music and the success I loved him as a wonderful man and a true friend.”
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) March 21, 2020
Lionel Richie also shared an emotional tribute to the music legend.
Richie shared a touching message, sharing a collection of photos of the pair together throughout the years.
Taking to his Instagram, 70-year-old Lionel wrote: “I lost one of my closest friends.’ He continued: ‘So much laughter so many adventures to remember, my heart is broken. My prayers go out to Kenny’s Family.”
Richie wrote Kenny’s hit single Lady in 1980, and the high-profile duo remained close friends thereafter.
He explained: “He’s not just a friend of mine, but the song he wrote was truly a changing point in my career. It’s one of the most identifiable songs I’ve ever done.”
Carrie Underwood also shared a heartfelt tribute to the country music legend
Underwood remembered Rogers as one of the “pillars” of the country music world, and included a trio of photos with the singer.
“Country music has lost one of its pillars…sing with the angels and talk to God, Kenny. Bless you for being a part of so many lives…” Underwood wrote.
Other celebrities, like country singer and “The Voice” host Blake Shelton, also remembered the musician in posts on Twitter.
“I can’t express the impact Kenny Rogers the artist and the man had one me. He was always very kind and fun to be around,” he wrote.
“I can’t express on twitter the impact Kenny Rogers the artist and the man had on me. He was always very kind and fun to be around. Rest In Peace Gambler…”
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) March 21, 2020
Kenny, Go rest high on that mountain. Please tell mama and daddy hi for me. Thank you for your friendship and your love. We are going to miss you but we are so happy you’re singing with the Angels in heaven. Can’t wait to see you again one of these days. Rest in peace my friend. pic.twitter.com/hCNtBayZ8i
— Reba (@reba) March 21, 2020
Farewell to the talented, complex @_KennyRogers and his music. From Lucille to Reuben James to the beloved The Gambler, his voice lifts spirits, wry wit brings smiles and lyrical storytelling evokes a lovely sorrow. Thank you from all who have had the privilege to listen.
— Stacey Abrams (@staceyabrams) March 21, 2020
“What a career, what a talent, what a legacy. Now this world is left with a big shadow, center stage where Kenny Rogers stood. No one else can take his place. Now he’s taken his place amongst the Heavenly stars. It’s a very sad day for all of us. But God is smiling. Rest easy my friend.”
– Tanya Tucker