“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“The Gambler” is one of Kenny Rogers’ most iconic songs, released in 1978. Known for its storytelling style, the song has become synonymous with Rogers’ legacy in the country music genre. “The Gambler” tells the story of a narrator who meets a seasoned gambler on a train and receives life lessons through a conversation, encapsulating themes of wisdom, experience, and the nuances of life.
About The Composition
- Title: The Gambler
- Composer: Don Schlitz
- Premiere Date: 1978
- Album/Opus/Collection: The Gambler
- Genre: Country
Background
“The Gambler,” written by Don Schlitz, was recorded by Kenny Rogers in 1978 and became a massive hit, solidifying Rogers’ status as a country music legend. Despite Schlitz’s initial struggles to find success with the song, Kenny Rogers’ version reached number one on the Billboard Country chart and won a Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance. The song’s success also led to a series of television movies starring Rogers as the titular character.
Musical Style
Musically, “The Gambler” is characterized by its straightforward country style, featuring gentle acoustic guitars, a steady rhythm, and Rogers’ warm, narrative-driven vocal delivery. The arrangement supports the storytelling aspect of the lyrics, creating a reflective and engaging listening experience.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “The Gambler” revolve around a conversation between the narrator and an old gambler, who imparts life lessons through the metaphor of a poker game. Themes of knowing when to take risks, when to hold back, and the balance of life are central to the song’s message.
Performance History
“The Gambler” has been performed numerous times by Kenny Rogers throughout his career, becoming a staple in his live performances. Notable performances include his appearances on television specials and award shows, where the song was often highlighted as a fan favorite.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of “The Gambler” extends beyond the music charts. It inspired a series of television films featuring Kenny Rogers, further embedding the song into American pop culture. The phrase “know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em” has become widely recognized and quoted.
Legacy
Today, “The Gambler” remains a timeless classic in country music, celebrated for its storytelling and life lessons. It continues to influence artists and is frequently referenced in media, ensuring its presence in popular culture.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “The Gambler,” it’s clear why the song has endured over the decades. Its universal themes and memorable melody invite listeners to delve deeper into its narrative. I encourage anyone interested in country music or storytelling songs to explore Kenny Rogers’ discography further.
Video
Lyrics
On a warm summer’s evening
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
The boredom overtook us
And he began to speak
He said, “Son, I’ve made a life
Out of readin’ people’s faces
Knowin’ what the 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’ve 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 dealin’s done
Every gambler knows
That the secret to survivin’
Is knowin’ what to throw away
And knowin’ 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’d finished speakin’
He turned back toward the window
Crushed out his cigarette
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’ve 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 dealin’s done
You’ve got to know when to hold ’em (when to hold ’em)
Know when to fold ’em (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 dealin’s done
You’ve 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 dealin’s done