Hear Kenny Rogers Say ‘Goodbye’ In Rediscovered Ballad

A Fond Farewell From a True Legend

Kenny Rogers delivers a final farewell in the emotional track “Goodbye,” a newly-rediscovered track which now takes on a whole new meaning. “Goodbye” was one of the last songs Rogers recorded during a brief tenure with Capitol Records — and before now was only available on a greatest-hits collection, Kenny Rogers: The First 50 Years. After his death, executives at the label found the track and decided to send it to country radio, a fitting tribute to a true country legend.

‘Goodbye’ was one of the last recordings Kenny did for Capitol Records,” the label explained in an announcement. “Those closest to Kenny wanted to make this track available to all of his fans.”

“Goodbye” was written about the end of a relationship, a classically-themed ballad with Rogers’ rich, tender vocals leading the way. But now it feels like a fond goodbye from “The Gambler” to his fans.

“There’s peace in where you are, maybe all I need to know / and if I listen to my heart I’ll hear your laughter once more / and so I have to say, I’m just glad you came my way / it’s not easy to say goodbye,” goes the moving track.

Rogers, the Country Music Hall of Fame member who sold over 100 million records in his lifetime and topped the charts with hits such as “Lady” (another song penned by Richie), died March 20 at the age of 81 years old.

His life and career will be highlighted on an upcoming A&E mini-documentary which features interviews with Parton, Richie, Chris Stapleton, Reba McEntire, Little Big Town, Lady Antebellum, Jamey Johnson, and more.