About the song
Let’s journey into the captivating world of “The Gambler” by the legendary Kenny Rogers. Penned by the talented songwriter Don Schlitz, this iconic country ballad was released in 1978 as part of Rogers’ album of the same name.
“The Gambler” quickly captured the hearts of listeners, climbing the charts to claim the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossing over to mainstream success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its timeless tale of wisdom gained through life’s gambles struck a chord with audiences, resonating with the universal themes of risk, redemption, and the power of intuition.
Rogers’ rich, velvety voice brings Schlitz’s poignant lyrics to life, weaving a narrative of a chance encounter with a seasoned gambler who imparts sage advice on navigating the highs and lows of life’s journey. With its memorable chorus and infectious melody, “The Gambler” became an anthem for resilience and self-discovery, inspiring listeners to trust their instincts and embrace the uncertainties that lie ahead.
Decades after its release, “The Gambler” remains a beloved classic, cherished for its timeless message and unforgettable melody. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring appeal of Kenny Rogers’ storytelling prowess and his ability to touch the hearts of listeners across generations. So, let’s ante up and embark on a musical adventure with “The Gambler,” a timeless testament to the wisdom gained through life’s gambles.
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