About the song
“Islands in the Stream,” performed by the iconic Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers, is a timeless classic that continues to capture the hearts of listeners across generations. Released in 1983, this duet was written by the legendary Bee Gees—Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb. The song is featured on Kenny Rogers’ album “Eyes That See in the Dark,” which showcases a blend of country and pop, highlighting the unique vocal harmonies between Parton and Rogers.
The collaboration between Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers was a match made in musical heaven. Both artists were already established as country music superstars, and their combined talent resulted in a song that transcended the boundaries of the genre. “Islands in the Stream” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, a remarkable achievement that underscored its broad appeal beyond the country music audience. It also topped the Country and Adult Contemporary charts, making it a crossover hit that cemented its place in music history.
The song’s title was inspired by Ernest Hemingway’s novel “Islands in the Stream,” although its lyrics tell a different story—one of love and partnership, a perfect reflection of the chemistry between Parton and Rogers. The melody is both catchy and soothing, complemented by the seamless vocal interplay between the two singers. Their performance of “Islands in the Stream” remains one of the most memorable moments in country music, often regarded as one of the best duets of all time.
For many, “Islands in the Stream” evokes a sense of nostalgia, a reminder of the era when country music was expanding its horizons and reaching new audiences. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering this gem for the first time, the song’s enduring charm and emotional depth are sure to resonate.
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Lyrics
Baby, when I met you there was peace unknown
I set out to get you with a fine tooth comb
I was soft inside
There was something going on
You do something to me that I can’t explain
Hold me closer and I feel no pain
Every beat of my heart
We got something going on
Tender love is blind
It requires a dedication
All this love we feel needs no conversation
We ride it together, ah ha
Making love with each other, ah ha
Islands in the stream
That is what we are
No one in between
How can we be wrong?
Sail away with me
To another world
And we rely on each other, ah ha
From one lover to another, ah ha
I can’t live without you if the love was gone
Everything is nothing if you got no one
And you did walk in the night
Slowly losing sight of the real thing
But that won’t happen to us and we got no doubt
Too deep in love and we got no way out
And the message is clear
This could be the year for the real thing
No more will you cry
Baby, I will hurt you never
We start and end as one
In love forever
We can ride it together, ah ha
Making love with each other, ah ha
Islands in the stream
That is what we are
No one in between
How can we be wrong?
Sail away with me
To another world
And we rely on each other, ah ha
From one lover to another, ah ha
Sail away
Oh, come sail away with me
Islands in the stream
That is what we are
No one in between
How can we be wrong?
Sail away with me
To another world
And we rely on each other, ah ha
From one lover to another, ah ha
Islands in the stream
That is what we are
No one in between
How can we be wrong?
Sail away with me
To another world
And we rely on each other, ah ha
From one lover to another, ah ha
Islands in the stream
That is what we are
No one in between