“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“The Gambler” is a classic song by American country music legend Kenny Rogers. Released in 1978, the song became one of Rogers’ signature hits and is often cited as one of the greatest country songs of all time. It tells the story of a narrator who meets a seasoned gambler on a train, who imparts wisdom about life through the metaphor of gambling. The song’s storytelling, combined with Rogers’ distinctive voice, helped it resonate with audiences worldwide, contributing to its enduring fame.
About The Composition
- Title: The Gambler
- Composer: Don Schlitz
- Premiere Date: 1978
- Album/Opus/Collection: The Gambler
- Genre: Country
Background
“The Gambler” was written by Don Schlitz in 1976 and recorded by several artists before Kenny Rogers made it a hit. Schlitz, then a struggling songwriter, initially had difficulty getting the song noticed. However, when Rogers recorded it for his album, it quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Country Music chart. The success of “The Gambler” was a pivotal moment in Rogers’ career, solidifying his status as a major figure in country music.
Musical Style
The musical style of “The Gambler” is quintessentially country, featuring a steady, mid-tempo rhythm and traditional country instrumentation, including acoustic guitar and harmonica. Rogers’ warm and raspy vocal delivery enhances the storytelling aspect of the song, making the narrative both engaging and memorable.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “The Gambler” revolve around life lessons imparted by an experienced gambler, using poker as a metaphor for life’s challenges and decisions. The song’s narrative structure and conversational style make it relatable, with themes of wisdom, risk, and knowing when to act or fold in various life situations.
Performance History
Kenny Rogers’ performances of “The Gambler” have become iconic, often featuring in his concert setlists throughout his career. The song’s success led to Rogers starring in a series of made-for-TV movies inspired by the song’s narrative, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Cultural Impact
“The Gambler” has had a significant cultural impact, appearing in various media and being referenced in numerous works. Its memorable chorus and the life lessons it conveys have made it a staple in popular culture, transcending the country music genre to reach a broader audience.
Legacy
The legacy of “The Gambler” endures, as it continues to be celebrated for its storytelling and timeless advice. It remains a beloved classic in Kenny Rogers’ discography and is often covered by artists across different genres, showcasing its universal appeal.
Conclusion
“The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in music. Its combination of memorable lyrics, compelling narrative, and Rogers’ charismatic performance have ensured its place in music history. I encourage you to explore this classic song and its diverse interpretations, as it offers valuable insights and entertainment.
Video
Lyrics
On a warm summer’s evenin’ on a train bound for nowhere
I met up with the gambler, we were both too tired to sleep
So we took turns a starin’ out the window at the darkness
‘Til boredom overtook us and he began to speak
He said, “Son, I’ve made a life, out of readin’ people’s faces
And knowin’ what their cards were by the way they held their eyes
So if you don’t mind my sayin’, I can see you’re out of aces
For a taste of your whiskey I’ll give you some advice”
So I handed him my bottle and he drank down my last swallow
Then he bummed a cigarette and asked me for a light
And the night got deathly quiet and his face lost all expression
Said, “If you’re gonna play the game, boy, you gotta learn to play it right”
You got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em
Know when to walk away and know when to run
You never count your money when you’re sittin’ at the table
There’ll be time enough for countin’ when the dealing’s done
Every gambler knows that the secret to survivin’
Is knowin’ what to throw away and knowing what to keep
‘Cause every hand’s a winner and every hand’s a loser
And the best that you can hope for is to die in your sleep
And when he finished speakin’, he turned back towards the window
Crushed out his cigarette and faded off to sleep
And somewhere in the darkness the gambler, he broke even
But in his final words I found an ace that I could keep
You got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em
Know when to walk away and know when to run
You never count your money when you’re sittin’ at the table
There’ll be time enough for countin’ when the dealing’s done
You got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em
Know when to walk away and know when to run
You never count your money when you’re sittin’ at the table
There’ll be time enough for countin’ when the dealing’s done
You got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em
Know when to walk away and know when to run
You never count your money when you’re sittin’ at the table
There’ll be time enough for countin’ when the dealing’s done