"Blaze of Glory" by Kenny Rogers

Song#:  0826
Date:  11/21/1981
Debut:  86
Peak:  66
Weeks:  9
Genre:  Country



Pop Bits:  After a series of pop-country hits, Rogers went with a more traditional country tune for the third single from his album "Share Your Love." It may not have been the best move as pop radio and listeners pretty much ignored the song. It was Rogers' first single to not reach the pop Top 40 since 1977.

ReduxReview:  I didn't much care for this song back then and I still don't. I find it a very bland song that could have been done by any country artist, especially since Rogers doesn't bring much to the tune. It kind of killed Rogers' pop-country hit momentum and it has become a forgotten entry in his catalog (rightfully so).

ReduxRating:  4/10

Trivia:  There seemed to be a calculated reason for this song's release. Country artist Razzy Bailey recorded this song around the same time as Rogers. Bailey's version was to be issued as a single. Rogers version was slated for his album, but not schedule for single release. Apparently, someone from Rogers' camp heard Bailey's take and thought it would be a hit. Rogers' label then decided to get the song out as a single right away. It hit before Bailey's version and Bailey made the decision to keep the song as an album track. It may have worked out for Bailey as the single he then issued, "She Left Love All Over Me," hit #1 on the country chart. Rogers' version of "Blaze of Glory" peaked at #9 and although it was a Top 10 single, it was his worst showing on the country chart in four years and was a dud at pop.

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