Islands in the Stream topped the charts when it came out in 1983. Released by Kenny Rogers on his album Eyes That See in the Dark, the song fits the country genre perfectly. Rogers was a country singer-songwriter, and the hit could have easily been one of his. But what if we told you that the tune was not a Kenny Rogers original? Hop on the cruise for the curious as we jump headfirst into the stream and discover the true songsmith.
Dolly Parton is best known for her work in country music. Her recording career began at age 13 with Puppy Love for the small label Goldband Records. By the time she graduated from high school in 1964, Dolly was a hot commodity. She moved to Nashville the day after her graduation and found success initially as a songwriter. The hits she wrote with her writing partner and uncle, Bill Owens, were recorded by Bill Phillips and Skeeter Davis among others.