About the song
“The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers is a timeless classic that has resonated with listeners since its release in 1978. Written by Don Schlitz, this song is the title track from Rogers’ album “The Gambler,” which has become one of the most iconic albums in country music history. With its compelling storytelling and memorable chorus, “The Gambler” tells the tale of a conversation between a narrator and a seasoned gambler on a train, imparting life lessons through the metaphor of poker.
Kenny Rogers’ smooth, distinctive voice brings depth to the lyrics, making them relatable and poignant for listeners of all ages. The song’s narrative structure and the wisdom shared by the gambler character—emphasizing knowing when to hold on, fold, walk away, or run—extend beyond the realm of card games to provide practical advice for life’s various challenges.
“The Gambler” achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its popularity helped cement Kenny Rogers’ status as a major figure in country music. The song’s success also earned Rogers a Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 1980, further solidifying its place in music history.
The impact of “The Gambler” extended beyond the charts; it inspired a series of television movies starring Kenny Rogers himself as the titular character, bringing the song’s themes to a broader audience. Over the years, “The Gambler” has become more than just a song—it is a cultural touchstone that continues to influence and inspire new generations of listeners.
In summary, “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers is not just a song, but a piece of Americana that offers wisdom and storytelling that remain relevant today. Its success and influence are a testament to its enduring appeal and the artistry of both Kenny Rogers and Don Schlitz.
Video
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