When the Deal Is Done, Kenny Rogers Comes to Ravinia

An Entertainment Legend Performs Classics in Chicago

 

kenny rogers comes to ravinia

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Kenny Rogers launched his two-year Farewell Tour – The Final Deal and included Ravinia in one of his stops.

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band opened the show with their unique brand of bluegrass, country, and folk music. On the music scene since the 60s, this laid back group of amazingly talented musicians delivered a great performance that demonstrated they still had the goods. Lead vocals and guitarist Jeff Hanna, also one of the originals, led the band in “Mr. Bo Jangles, “Will the Circle be Unbroken,” and “Fishin’ in the Dark.” Jimmie Fadden did double duty on the drums and harmonica and he was sensational. Hanna said, “We really all love playing live more than anything,” and it showed.

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kenny rogers comes to raviniaSinger, songwriter, and actor Kenny Rogers has enjoyed a successful career for more than 50 years. He’s sold more than 120 million records across the globe with over 100 hit singles and has appeared in 14 movies. In September of 2015, he announced his retirement after the tour to spend more time with his wife and twin boys.

Sunday night’s show featured tons of videos showcasing television, movie, and music performances as a tribute to his long-standing success. Joining him on stage was songstress Linda Davis whose powerful vocals, high energy, and enthusiasm completed Rogers in duets and solos. He gave tribute to his original band, the First Edition, as well as country star Dottie West and other country greats we’ve lost.

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Musical highlights of the evening included “Lucille,” “The Gambler,” “Coward of the County,” “She Believes in Me,” “Lady,” “Ruby,” “Through the Years and Daytime Friends,” and “Night-Time Lovers.” The video synopsis of the 1980 movie, The Gambler, was met with thundering applause.  The show was a fitting tribute to the many years of memories that Rogers has brought us.

Next up for Ravinia is Diana Ross on June 27, Titanic Live on July 28 and 29, Buddy Guy and Jeff Beck on July 31, and Bryan Ferry on August 6.

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Photo credit: Russell Jenkins/Ravinia.

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