Kenny Rogers: The Top Songs From a Lifetime of Hits

Kenny Rogers was an icon of country music, and the sad news of his death at 81 years old already has us pulling out the vinyl this morning.

Growing up, I can't remember a time where Kenny Rogers music wasn't playing at some point, virtually every day. Whether it was on 8-tracks, vinyl, cassettes or CDs, mom always made sure to have something on.

With those memories fresh on our mind this morning, here's a look at some of the most iconic Kenny Rogers songs, plus a couple you may not remember.

Literally danced with my mom to this song at my wedding. Nothing will ever top it.

Probably the greatest story-telling song of all time (Marty Robbins' "El Paso" could be placed in the argument), it's the reason most people of all ages know exactly who Kenny Rogers was.

Apparently we are biased toward the 1979 hits, as another great story song is always a great listen.

There may not have been a better man for belting out some powerful love songs in country music in his era, but Kenny Rogers knew how to help guys win some hearts with just a little song.

Who would have thought that a song written by the Bee Gees would go down as one of the most powerful country duets of all time? Kenny and Dolly are each at their vocal best in this song. It's still a regular listen in my household. If you ever need a perfect example of harmonizing while still stylizing, listen to Dolly on this track. Especially in the second half choruses.

Lionel Richie wrote one of the best love songs of all time here. And Kenny took it to the top of literally ALL of the Billboard charts at the time.

It's almost hard to remember that Kenny Rogers wasn't always "just" Kenny Rogers. But this hit with his band The First Edition was a great example of love and longing. The Mel Tillis-penned track now stands as one of his most iconic early hits.

Another "The First Edition" track here, and made supremely re-popular with its use in the hit movie "The Big Lebowski", this track was one of the first couple of hits for Kenny and his new band. We largely have this track to thank for the legendary career that came after.

It was his first No. 1 song as a solo artist, and a great, classic country bar song.

No, it wasn't really a terrific song, but this sweet song about overcoming adversity has now become a staple of baseball stadiums across the country. And that's good enough for me.