About the song
“The Gambler” is an iconic country song by the legendary Kenny Rogers, known for its timeless wisdom and catchy melody. Released in 1978 as the title track of Rogers’ album *The Gambler*, this song has become a classic in the country music genre.
Written by Don Schlitz, “The Gambler” tells the story of a chance encounter between the narrator and a seasoned gambler on a train ride. Through their conversation, the gambler imparts invaluable life lessons about knowing when to hold ’em and when to fold ’em, serving as a metaphor for making the right choices in life.
The song’s success was immediate, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1978 and number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its popularity transcended the country music genre, earning Rogers widespread acclaim and solidifying his status as one of the most beloved artists of his time.
The album *The Gambler*, which features the titular track, also received critical acclaim and commercial success. It became one of Rogers’ best-selling albums, showcasing his exceptional vocal talent and ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt storytelling.
For fans of Kenny Rogers and country music enthusiasts, “The Gambler” remains a cherished favorite that embodies the spirit of the genre. Its timeless message about life’s uncertainties and the importance of making wise choices continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, making it a standout track in Rogers’ illustrious career.
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