CMT celebrated the life and career of Kenny Rogers, who passed away on March 20 at age 81, during the TV special, CMT Giants Kenny Rogers, on April 8.
The tribute, which was hosted by Rita Wilson, featured virtual performances and interviews from Dolly Parton, Gavin DeGraw, Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires, Jennifer Nettles, Lady Antebellum, Lionel Richie, Michael McDonald, Randy Houser, Rascal Flatts, Vince Gill and more. The special was filmed from performers’ homes and blended alongside archival photos, interviews and performances, with clips and commentary from Kenny.
Rascal Flatts paid tribute to Kenny by singing “Through the Years,” a tune penned by Steve Dorff and Marty Panzer that Kenny recorded for his 1981 album, Share Your Love. The single topped the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, while reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
CMT Giants Kenny Rogers: A Benefit For MusiCares will encore on MTV Live at 8 p.m. ET/PT on April 10 and again on CMT at 12 p.m. ET/PT on April 11.
Watch Rascal Flatts’ performance below.
photo by Curtis Hilbun, AFF-USA.com
