About The Song
If you’re a fan of classic country music, then you’re undoubtedly familiar with the soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics of Kenny Rogers. One of his most iconic tracks, ‘The Stranger,’ released in 1984, offers a poignant exploration of loneliness, longing, and the complexities of human connection.
The song’s title itself is evocative, painting a vivid picture of a solitary figure wandering through life. Rogers’ rich, resonant voice perfectly captures the melancholy and vulnerability of the character he portrays. With its simple yet evocative imagery and relatable themes, ‘The Stranger’ has resonated with audiences for decades.
The heart of the song lies in its lyrics, which paint a picture of a man feeling lost and disconnected from the world around him. Rogers’ ability to convey raw emotion through his singing makes it easy for listeners to empathize with the character’s experiences. The song’s themes of isolation and longing are universal, and they continue to strike a chord with listeners of all ages.
Musically, ‘The Stranger’ is a masterclass in traditional country songwriting. The arrangement is sparse, allowing Rogers’ voice to take center stage. The gentle acoustic guitar and subtle pedal steel guitar create a warm, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s emotional depth.
‘The Stranger’ is more than just a great song; it’s a cultural touchstone. It’s a testament to Kenny Rogers’ enduring talent as a singer and songwriter. The song’s success can be attributed to its timeless themes, its masterful performance, and its ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kenny Rogers or you’re just discovering his music for the first time, ‘The Stranger’ is a must-listen. It’s a beautiful and haunting song that will stay with you long after the final note fades.
Video
Lyric
Stranger I know where you’ll find herDown the road from here about a mile and a quarter.You’ll know the place by a shackey barnThat stands in the field by a run-down farmBy a pond, filled up with stagnant water.Then you’ll see a shack nearby, you’ll ask yourselfI wonder why it looks so cold, and lifeless all around.Chimney rocks are fallin’ out, it looks as thoughThe fire’s gone out and the biggest partOf the house is rotted down.Though Stranger, I ain’t seen her lately.She don’t come around here like she used to.You’ve got her pictured in your mind,Pretty, gentle, sweet and kind,You’ve practiced every word you’re gonna say.You’ll call her name, but she won’t hear you,She’s in the graveyard near you.She died ten years ago, last May.There was a man she talked about,A man she had to live without.Years ago, he just turned and left one day.He left her with an unborn child,And a love for him that never died,And an aching heart,That sent her to an early grave.Yes, Stranger I know who you are,I recognized you from afar,But you ain’t never seen me,Not one time.Yes, I know that you’re my dad,From pictures that my Momma had.And it was me and Momma that you left behind.Stranger, you will find her there,In a peaceful sleep on yonder hill.Where we once walked, as I do still…To pick her flowers from the field.Momma don’t need you anymore,And I don’t need you like before,You can go on back to where you went before…You’re just a stranger.