Dolly Parton and More Stars to Celebrate Kenny Rogers in Tonight's CMT Tribute
Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie, Lady Antebellum, and more stars will honor the late Kenny Rogers in a special tribute, CMT Giants Kenny Rogers: A Benefit for MusiCares, which airs Wednesday night on CMT.
The Country Music Hall of Fame member died March 20 at age 81.
Kenny Rogers' "Islands in the Stream" duet partner, Dolly Parton, will lead a loving tribute to the late country legend in the form of tonight's virtual concert on CMT. Dolly posted a heartfelt tribute to Kenny on Instagram following the news of his death:
"You never know how much you love somebody until they’re gone," Dolly wrote alongside an emotional video in which she struggled to hold back tears. "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. So you be safe with God and just know that I will always love you."
The award-winning musician, best known for hits like "The Gambler," "Islands in the Stream," and "Lady," died from natural causes on March 20 at age 81. Kenny shared a special bond with Dolly, collaborating with her on hits like "Islands in the Stream," "Real Love," "Love Is Strange," and the 2014 CMA-nominated "You Can't Make Old Friends."
What is the CMT Kenny Rogers tribute?
CMT Giants Kenny Rogers: A Benefit for MusiCares will feature at-home performances and interviews from Dolly and more of Kenny's friends and fellow country stars, including Gavin DeGraw, Jason Isbell & Amanda Shires, Jennifer Nettles, Lady Antebellum, Lionel Richie, Michael McDonald, Randy Houser, Rascal Flatts, and Vince Gill.
All of the artists have filmed their tributes from home due to social distancing measures amid the coronavirus pandemic.
How can I watch the tribute concert?
The show airs Wednesday, April 8 at 8 p.m. ET on CMT. The show will also be aired on MTV Live on April 10 at 8:00 p.m. ET and again on CMT on April 11 at 12:00 p.m. ET.
Who is hosting the tribute concert?
Singer-songwriter and actress Rita Wilson will host the tribute, which will also showcase rare archival photos, interviews, and performances, as well as clips and commentary from Kenny himself.
What is MusiCares?
During the CMT tribute, fans will have the opportunity to donate to the MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund, which benefits music professionals impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Half of all funds raised will go directly to the Nashville country community. Find out more information at musicares.org/kennyrogers.
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