About the song
Few songs in the history of country music have left as lasting an impression as Kenny Rogers – The Gambler. Released in 1978, this iconic track became more than just a hit single—it became a defining moment in Kenny Rogers’ career and a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, especially those who appreciate life’s deeper lessons wrapped in a compelling story. With its memorable melody, wise lyrics, and Rogers’ warm, weathered voice, The Gambler remains one of the most beloved storytelling songs in American music.
At its heart, Kenny Rogers – The Gambler is more than just a song about poker. It’s a parable—simple on the surface but layered with wisdom about life, choices, and knowing when to hold on or let go. The lyrics tell the tale of a chance encounter between the narrator and a seasoned gambler who shares life advice through the metaphor of cards. “You’ve got to know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ‘em” became more than a catchy refrain; it became a philosophy for navigating life’s uncertainties.
What made the song truly special was Kenny Rogers’ delivery. His voice, rich with experience and sincerity, gave weight to every word. He didn’t just sing the story—he lived it. You could hear in his tone a sense of respect for the character of the gambler, and a quiet acknowledgment of the truth behind the advice. The production is subtle and perfectly matched to the mood—acoustic guitar, light percussion, and gentle backing that never distracts from the lyrics.
Kenny Rogers – The Gambler also had a significant cultural impact. It inspired TV movies, earned Rogers a Grammy, and became a staple in both country and pop circles. It’s the kind of song that older listeners especially appreciate—not just for its melody, but for the life lessons it carries. It reminds us all that wisdom doesn’t always come loud or flashy; sometimes, it’s shared quietly, on a train, between strangers, and stays with us forever.
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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
