There’s no better combo than a man and a woman when it comes to reeling out staggering songs that put you on a different level altogether. When the combo is Kenny Rogers and Dolly Patron you can lose sight of the ground as you float high among the clouds. ‘Islands in the Streams’ is one song that really was a blast – the duo nailed it perfectly.
In retrospection, I think 70s and 80s had a wide spectrum of songs that stood out. It was the era of Queens, Princes, Oceans, Stevens and others. Of course, the Jacksons trailed behind too! Then, owning a two-in-one player was a status symbol. In most well-to-do houses, the gold gramophones shone in style sitting pretty in a corner while doling out melodies. The songs were either played on a 33 rpm or 45 rpm or 75 rpm. No jazz. Just lively music.
When I first heard ‘Islands in the Stream’ on our ‘Sanyo’ in the late 80s, it was so heavenly; I simply couldn’t shake the song out of my head. That’s when my quest for Dolly Patron’s and Kenny Rogers’ other songs took root. However, we were a disadvantaged lot who needed to run from pillar to post to get hold of good songs. But this particular song remains as the most cherished as it was a deadly combo of bass and tenor. You know the bonding between Rogers and Patron takes the song a notch higher. The amazing stage presence and highly melting chemistry becomes obvious when you watch them live. Having goose bumps is saying the least.
Though the duo has belted out many gospel as well as secular songs, Islands in the Streams will always be one of my favourites for the varied emotions it stirs in me. Kudos to the duo!
