About the song
“Through the Years” is a timeless ballad penned by songwriters Steve Dorff and Marty Panzer, immortalized by the heartfelt rendition of Kenny Rogers. Released in December 1981 as part of his album *Share Your Love*, the song swiftly captured the hearts of listeners, making its mark on multiple music charts in the early 1980s.
The track ascended to number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100, maintaining a strong presence in the top 40 for eleven consecutive weeks. Notably, “Through the Years” clinched the number one spot on the Adult Contemporary chart, adding to Rogers’ impressive record of chart-topping hits in this genre. It also made a significant impact on the Country chart, peaking at number five, further solidifying Rogers’ crossover appeal across different musical styles.
For Rogers, “Through the Years” held special significance, recognized as one of the pivotal songs of his illustrious career. Despite its modest reception in North America, the song’s enduring popularity was underscored by memorable performances, including appearances at prestigious events such as the Grammy Awards and notable halftime ceremonies.
The song itself is a poignant reflection on enduring love and commitment, chronicling the journey of a relationship “through the years.” It eloquently captures both the joys and challenges faced together, culminating in a heartfelt affirmation of steadfast love: “I’m so glad I stayed right here with you / Through the years.”
In a poignant moment during his 50th anniversary TV special, Rogers joined forces with his close friends Lionel Richie and Dolly Parton to perform a poignant rendition of the song. The performance, interspersed with archival footage of their collaborations over time, underscored the song’s universal theme of enduring friendship and loyalty.
“Through the Years” remains a cherished piece of Kenny Rogers’ musical legacy, a testament to his ability to connect deeply with audiences through storytelling and emotion. Its enduring popularity continues to resonate, reminding listeners of the timeless themes of love, commitment, and the passage of time.
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Lyrics
I can’t remember when you weren’t there
When I didn’t care for anyone but you
I swear, we’ve been through everything there is
Can’t imagine anything we’ve missed
Can’t imagine anything the two of us can’t do
Through the years, you’ve never let me down
You’ve turned my life around
The sweetest days I’ve found, I’ve found with you
Through the year, I’ve never been afraid
I’ve loved the life we’ve made
And I’m so glad I’ve stayed right here with you
Through the years
I can’t remember what I used to do
Who I trusted, whom I listened to before
I swear, you’ve taught me everything I know
Can’t imagine needing someone so
But through the years it seems to me
I need you more and more
Through the years, through all the good and bad
I knew how much we had
I’ve always been so glad to be with you
Through the years, it’s better every day
You’ve kissed my tears away
As long as it’s okay, I’ll stay with you
Through the years
Through the years, when everything went wrong
Together we were strong
I know that I belonged right here with you
Through the years, I never had a doubt
We’d always work things out
I’ve learned what love’s about, by loving you
Through the years
Through the years, you’ve never let me down
You’ve turned my life around
The sweetest days I’ve found, I’ve found with you
Through the years, it’s better every day
You’ve kissed my tears away
As long as it’s okay, I’ll stay with you
Through the years