Kenny Rogers & The First Edition - Ruby, Don't Take Your Love To Town

[@VinDcator]

Back when songs like this actually meant something.

[@LindaWilczak-n2b]

2024 Still listening to all his songs.

[@sharonjackle]

Oh! This hurts so much! What a beautiful voice! Memories are something else.

[@JefferyConner-po8mj]

Hi Sharon💐💐

[@queasylagumo]

Played live. No autotune. This was a great band to play live.

[@kmoecub]

This was a television performance. As was the standard of the time it was all pantomime matching (more or less) the studio recording that was played for the taping of the show.

[@queasylagumo]

@@kmoecub Nope. If you pay close attention you can tell they're playing live.

[@thurgoodstubbs9670]

Yep, live performance. No doubt. I’m really impressed by the arrangement in fact. Mary Miller on tambourine and Kenny on Bass. Lead guitar used at the end as a percussion instrument to great effect. Very much enjoyable, thank you!

[@Racoldgin]

@@kmoecub This is live bud. You obviously have no clue and have never heard the studio version of this song.

[@rickkilgore1147]

@queasylagumo, you are so right if U listen carefully U can tell it's live and different from the record and just doggone GREAT.

[@Deejayboy]

Country legend Mel Tillis, who died today (11/19/2017), was the writer of this Kenny Rogers classic. R.I.P. Mel

[@firewaterbydesign]

Great song! M-m-many p-p-people did not know that M-m-mel suffered a lifelong stuttering problem, 😳 but he could sing PERFECTLY without stuttering!! In addition to the many wonderful songs that he was responsible for, he also fathered a musical 🎼 songstress within her own right, Pam Tillis!! Mel and Kenny were both musical 🎼 wonders that gave this world 🌎 great music 🎶 that will be enjoyed for many generations to come. I can only imagine, the GREAT band and choir of all of the WONDERFUL performers who have left our planet and now sing in the heavens.

[@TinkerTailor4303]

Did not know that ... thanks...

[@doughill3396]

Thanks. Was wondering.

[@williamdavis-jq5po]

❤❤❤ Mel. TILLIS LOVED HE. WILL BE MISSED

[@rodstoakes1691]

But his daughter, Pam, still tours and represents him awesomely.

[@mario9181]

Still listen in 2022! Divorce,my Ex manipulated my kids. Iam 52 could be worse. But when I hear the good old Classics, Kenny,Diamond and all the best . Live goes on.✊️✊️✊️

[@Sandsculptor]

May Kenny Rogers rest in peace, he died two days ago. I had just come home from the Vietnam War when this song peaked at #6 on the Billboard Charts at the end of the summer of 1969. When I heard the song on the radio, I really enjoyed the melody of Kenny's voice and the background musical as well. Then one day, I listened to the words, and I realized this song had deep and dark meanings for a few of my fellow veterans that came home physically wounded and also mentally stressed. I still like the song, but for different reasons. Thank you to Kenny and The First Edition for making this version of this song...

[@davidfredenburg8283]

SEMPER FI BROTHER ‼️ WELCOME HOME

[@1fromtheroad]

Welcome home. Glad you are here

[@JoseLopez-ox6en]

God bless Kenny. I'm not really a country guy, but I always loved Kenny's songs. If I don't hear Ruby a few times year, then life is just not worth living.

[@robertm7071]

Although I am English, I can sympathise. I can remember disabled veterans from the two world wars selling matches on the streets. God bless you and your fellow veterans.

[@apache1413]

God bless you and all the veterans

[@Belluser-we1uc5cb2l]

My dad told me he wanted to name me Ruby because of my reddish hair. I wish he did. This song reminds me of my Dad. Rip 🙏 🌹

[@marcmaschal2897]

Why does this song stay in your head forever ? Its depressing and sad but I still love it

[@fumingriley]

The lyrics are sooo damn good, they really tell a tough story of a paralyzed veteran who loves his wife and wants her to stay with him, it's heartbreaking.

[@Thomas-uw1gq]

For me I'm a Vietnam Vet.

[@charleneheiland8803]

The best of the best. Had the pleasure of meeting Kenny a a few times. Have a picture with him taken by his sister in law Mrs. Lelan Rogers.Sing with the angels my sweet music man.🎸😍

[@fastguned]

I have been listening to and playing music for over 60 years and have never heard a live version that sounded better than the original. I cannot say that anymore.

[@TheSnowmanBKK]

It’s way superior to the original !

[@fastguned]

@@TheSnowmanBKK Yes it is

[@niallmonaghan2356]

The band Cake do an excellent cover

[@jackgrant9301]

I sense you are not a grateful dead fan?

[@fastguned]

@@jackgrant9301 Why do you say that ??

[@butchhardy2762]

I saw the First Edition with Kenny at the Big E. in W. Springfield Massachusetts way back when.

[@raymondnavarro5100]

I was there!!

[@butchhardy2762]

Nice!!

[@godbluffvdgg]

Kenny's Bass chops are so tasty on this song! I've heard the song hundreds of times on the radio starting in 72 but; Kenny Rodgers wasn't on my radar till decades later...I served only 6 years after the Nam ended, so I hurt for that veteran...

[@swerne01]

Whoever that female singer doing harmony is is off the charts. What a wonderful voice.

[@d.owczarzak6888]

Mary Arnold.

[@matthewyost7930]

The lady's name is Mary Arnold, who replaced her roommate Thelma Camacho as the female vocal on this album.

[@uselessjoe]

there's a video of her with the Grass Roots, and her tambourine, performing "Sooner or Later" on youtube too...and she was married to "King of the Road"...aka Roger Miller

[@smithchris1955]

NICE LEGGS TOO

[@susanrichardson6644]

I believe Mary Arnold became Mrs. Roger Miller.

[@artiewilson1075]

Our generation had the greatest music ever

[@vickiebohy7609]

Much better than the crap out today.

[@CirclingtheFringes]

Totally agreed. You had to make something outstanding, with its own caracter, from the heart. Nowadays it has some sort of a formula they use to make it to the charts. Its all shit to me.

[@davidmorin6667]

Artie: well said, best cars,best tunes, girls wearing mini skirts

[@harper_anne2089]

Yesss! I was born in 1959, and I had every 45 there was from 60's and 70's. I started young. Love this song for so many reasons, and Mary Arnold plays a mean tambourine. My fav song by Kenny, and a very sad one❤‍🩹

[@CirclingtheFringes]

@@harper_anne2089 Do you still have them? Would be cool if you did.

[@susanbezio6708]

I've been a big fan since 1969. Miss you Kenny..

[@tuvous4990]

Everyone, that's right everyone, please take a minute to thank our Creator for Kenny Rogers. His talents makes you to stop and express gratitude for Kenny Rogers. He is an enormous Gift from God!

[@lukedavis1769]

Amen 🕊️🌍🌎🕊️

[@stanallport6746]

are you okay

[@Gingers4u1]

Boy, do I feel my age now (62). When I am looking at him, he looks young.

[@stevecarmack6267]

A great song with a message that I’m sure resonates with many veterans . To all veterans, thank you for your service.

[@michaelwilliams7400]

Kenny passing in the middle of the pandemic felt like he didn't get the farewell he deserved. He sold more albums than Prince.

[@g-man7938]

Prince sucks, if you ask me.

[@leahelam6073]

I did not know that. I had a big crush on him in high school. Big time.

[@lovealldogsruffy8661]

AMEN!

[@stevethegrumpyoldman938]

Such a Classic Song. What a Great Memory.

[@kevinforth7618]

Wow, an actual live performance with no lip sync! Love it.

[@larrytate4586]

No auto tune.

[@rgrndu]

@@larrytate4586 There was no auto tune.

[@buckjohnson1119]

This is how I’ll always remember, Kenny. The First Edition. They were a talented, band.

[@speedracer2336]

He had his own tv show, left soft rock and transitioned to a superstar in country music. Talented guy!

[@WillhelmOlennsky]

Uh..."Just Dropped In" to see what condition my condition was in was hardly called "soft rock." Kenny Roger's covered every genre but hip hop!

[@Cruiserweight190]

Kenny Rogers was really only known for his stellar voice but he was really a musical virtuoso great bass player, piano, guitar, & drummer but when you have that GREAT of a voice much like Michael Mcdonald that's what most know them for I miss Kenny...

[@DaveRucci]

Holy crap! Just got a bunch more respect for Kenny. Never knew he had such killer bass chops while singing! 🙌🏻

[@fastguned]

Never knew he could play bass guitar like that, and singing at the same time. Love that pick sound.

[@leefields3658]

@@fastguned Agreed!

[@fastguned]

And I believe that is Mickey Jones back there on drums who said "All of it boy" on the movie Vacation. There is a live video of What Condition my Condition was in on here and he is playing the same drumset.

[@00690069100]

@@fastguned yeah, Kenny played both upright and electric bass while singing with the New Christy Minstrels. Not an easy thing to do.

[@00690069100]

Dave Rucci, I totally agree. I'm a bass player, and while I can sing some backups, it's hard for me to sing lead while playing bass. You always tend to sing what you're playing, and with bass it's sometimes going opposite from the main melody (bass might be going down while the guitars are going up, etc.). I have mucho respect for the McCartneys, Stings, and other bassists who sing lead.

[@GeorgeVreelandHill]

Kenny Rogers will never really die because his music will last forever.

[@steveclem7873]

Korn sly Everitts vidyVako GeLiedMowza!!

[@JoseLopez-ox6en]

It is never very long that I don't find myself singing "Ruby" to myself. Though I didn't go to Nam, it was 'cause they stopped drafting the year I was eligible. But I still feel how it affected the very few friends and neighbors who went, and, came back. They surely were treated badly. They did not get to take it to town.

[@skeena59]

Legends never die.

[@paulembleton3087]

That's very true he will live forever threw his music

[@vincekemper7753]

Gawd this brings back memories from many years ago, I was 12 when I first heard this song in 1969.

[@chereecargill355]

This song always gives me chills.

[@nyikomhlarhi7319]

Beautiful performance, Kenny plays bass while singing, not easy. This is legendary

[@dace938]

Ah.... Paul ?

[@coleman6131]

@@dace938 Right? And Greg Lake. And Geddy Lee. And Sting.......

[@jimbo1959]

Suzi Quatro and a ton of others!

[@FYMASMD]

It’s not like he’s really “playing the bass” much. Extremely simple part. Extremely.

[@drrjim]

@@jimbo1959 There really is not that many in the big picture. And it is not easy. David Crosby was supposed to be the bass player in the Byrds but couldn't sing and play bass, Glen Campbell said he had a heck of a time when filling in for Brian Wilson when he wouldn't go on the road....Many more that can't then can.

[@WillyRaschke]

I'm so glad it was explained to me after the music stopped, I don't think I would have understood it otherwise.

[@AxleB666]

"For God's sake turn around". Gives me shivers every time I hear it. Brilliant song brilliantly performed.

[@Davesworld7]

I remember listening to an 8 track of this on a trip with the family, my mom really loved the ending, especially the way the drums continued after saying, "for God's sake turn around" and they kept it intact performing live. That is one of the best endings I have ever heard. The song really transports you into feeling what the crippled vet felt real or not. There were quite a few bands that came to be comprised of former members of The New Christy Minstrels such as this one and I think Barry McGuire also was a Minstrel, quite a few people that were minstrels became successful afterward. Mary Arnold who I had a hopeless crush on at 12, was not the first female singer in the band so I do not know if she was one of the New Christy Minstrels before that. Seeing this cements the idea that I had great taste in a women's appearance even before my voice changed. Of course we know that even infants respond well to attractive people so the self important media and goofy article writers do not shape tastes and image like they think. The first time I saw this on TV, Kenny was sitting on steps performing it, the song was so believable that when I saw Kenny sitting I thought, "oh yeah, maybe he really can't stand and walk because he's paralyzed and it was his story". It didn't take long to figure out that he was fine and the song was just so good and convincing that I felt helpless for the person the song is from the point of view of.

[@truthbknown4957]

It is an incredibly emotional song. When you really listen to it. Very moving.

[@lawrencemyers3871]

They were all underrated musicians.

[@aaroncarver3607]

What a career arc. From sharing lead vocals in a 60’s psychedelic rock group, to heading the band, to transitioning to country megastar with a TV show and a huge restaurant chain and singing duets with Dolly and others, to even appearing in We Are The World. Wow, wow, wow. I’ll never forget getting to sing ‘Lady’ solo in a high school choral performance

[@keithmyers7031]

I have the 8-track kenny rogers &1st edition greatest hits bought it in 73... still works

[@reb1050]

I remember this song coming out in 69. I was 19 and actually knew a couple of veterans that were in this situation. To this day, I bow my head in remembrance of all those that found themselves in this situation as well as all those that sacrificed so much for doing their patriotic duty whenever I hear it (which is seldom). I am also saddened by the reception Vietnam vets. received when they returned home. I salute you, all you "brothers in arms". (U.S. Marine 70-76)

[@Thomas-uw1gq]

I salute you also , welcome home ! Nam Vet Tom

[@ErinB1597]

Thank You for your service Sir 🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@scottw5315]

My father in law was not disabled but after his second tour in Nam he found his wife was dating her bowling instructor. He never remarried but his three kids had the best upbringing. He was a better single parent than most two parent households. RIP Msgt Don Moore.

[@LindaYarbrough-my3fm]

❤

[@MrJHardison]

Still one of my favourite songs of all time. What a great piece of story telling. "The shadow on the wall tells me the sun is going down".

[@woodstockenvy4666]

When music was still music .....

[@valerieunderhill6188]

It's nice to see an audience without cell phones in the air.

[@joymcdonald8240]

Saw them perform in 72 at a hotel in Miami. Fond memories

[@gijsschubert7901]

Live played! Never realised that Kenny was a nice bass player. Well done Kenny!

[@jasonhopkins1551]

KENNY. ROGER. THE. BEST. COUNTRY. SINGER. OF. ALL. TIMES

[@browniedriver]

Every time I watch this video, it moves me. Spectacular.

[@Tordyboy]

Great song and a fab bit of bass guitar by Kenny Rogers👍😎

[@andymarshman9546]

saw that show on TV every week. Sweet harmony vocals on this track. Genuine 50s P bass too.

[@stevepatrick3913]

Still resonates feeling in 2024 the man was a great singer with a base off followers over the years.

[@fumingriley]

Awesome live prefromance of this great song, and Kenny playing the bass....I never knew.

[@teeembeee]

I got to see them in the Fall of 1969 when they came to Northeast Missouri State College right after this song was high on the charts. They were GREAT.

[@steveclark3879]

RIP Kenny. Your music was a big part of our lives. We miss you already Kenny!! Love from Steve & Janet, in Chicago. We're under coronavirus lockdown like so much of the country and the world right now. Stay safe and well everyone. Peace.

[@andydkid]

Steve Clark Same situation in Los Angeles . Kenny was of my Go To’s when feeling down . I came to this video and saw the RIP on your post and my heart sank just a bit more than it’s current state. RIP Kenny , I hope you didn’t suffer much your final days . Pls tell the big guy upstairs that we sure need help right now. Stay safe everyone..

[@Ken-ls8hz]

Could not agree with you more Steve and Janet

[@markcorley]

Why would you allow yourself to be locked down?

[@ChrisShultis]

As a retired vet, this is a very powerful song.

[@martinzaehringer1697]

I always give big props to groups that perform live on television shows. It's real hard to get a studio like sound on a television sound stage. They did an excellent job with this performance.

[@dr.strangelove7788]

This has to be on the list of all-time saddest.

[@vickiebohy7609]

One of my favorite First Edition songs. Written by the great Mel Tillis.

[@ChicagoBeaver]

I was just telling my coworker about this song plus their other single "Just Walked in to See My Condition." The Gambler himself! WOO!!!

[@goatpunchtheater]

kenny on the bass like a freakin boss. wish he woulda stayed playing bass in his live performances

[@patcom1013]

Great vocals and bass playing from Kenny on this performance.

[@ShadowsGathered]

I know, right? Those little smiles of his during the video melted my heart.

[@tanniscavacece1745]

So miss you Kenny ,thank you sqeet Angel for all your beautiful songs every single one if them ❤

[@lightshadow44]

Who would have guessed that Kenny become one of the biggest stars in music history ? Died without much fanfare during Covid ……seems like we should all throw a massive party for him for his gifts to us . What some don’t realize along with the glamor is incredible work that frankly most wouldn’t do for fame or money .

[@nanaingallswilder7363]

I love the bass playing on this version. My record skipped on ‘chore’ and I still listen for that.

[@DesertDigger1]

Instant American classic song and only gets better with age. Thanks Kenny.

[@bobbiebrown7471]

Very good looking man and what a voice

[@erickenneth8920]

Hi hope you doing good and staying safe.....!

[@richhess4722]

One of the smoothest voices in music a talent that is once in a lifetime rest easy Kenny

[@scrateshooter]

He slaps on bass too. All while higher than a kite.

[@jamesibz]

Smooth as fook! I love that little acoustic guitar lick on the verse..

[@tc247]

I just watched the special to Kenny Rogers (the tribute that was given to him on Oct 25, 2017) and 6 wks later I'm still crying that another great is gone. I had the honor of seeing Kenny, 1st row, middle section, in 1980 in a outside concert in CA. I LOVED IT to put it mildly. I knew "Ruby" was a war song, but didn't know it was first sung by The First Edition in 1969. After watching the old film clip and hearing him, I liked that rendition better. My dad was a Vietnam Vet, and so many boys that were just a few yrs older than me were still being drafted right out of HS. They went in boys and came back men. Many messed up either physically or mentally or both. What this country did to them when they came back still makes me red with rage, but that was then. I still cry when I remember my dad taking me to the Army base hospital and I saw the guys, just a few yrs older than me, that were missing arms, legs, and sometimes both. I just can't imagine. THANK YOU TO ALL THE VETS, who listen to this song and others. You were awesome back then and you are now! RIP Kenny ~ your music made so many of us happy and you could sing a story teller's song like none other.

[@patrickmcgrath5411]

WHEN WOMEN WERE BEAUTIFUL AND KENNY ROGERS WAS A "ROCKER"❣️

[@kennethlingle2885]

Saw these guys back in 1969. WOW WOW WOW, what a group, what a show. Thank you Kenny.

[@marti-jp]

Kenny on bass is such a treat

[@sarahwilliams6431]

Kenny is a treat. Love that voice.

[@1cmnsents]

Most DEFINENTELY NOT a recording playing........LIVE MUSIC...!!!!! This generation had voices with clarity that isn't seen today. No SCREAMING. No YELLING at the top of their lungs to see how long they can hold a note.

[@johnlimpachjr.4677]

We are so unworthy of this precious gift, but we can refuse to accept it. If you insist on having your own way, God will respect your choice. He will not let you go without doing everything he can. Trust Him and do it His way. The only smart choice.

[@johnrios6762]

I just missed the draft when I heard this song. Thankyou Mel Tillis and Kenny Rogers

[@matthewlassise7607]

Very nice some Kenny Rogers live in concert 🎵 1972 !

[@jimlassiter749]

at 62, i never knew KR was an actual musician & a pretty damn good bassist. i think my first memory of him was he & Dolly in a duet....

[@Cristofre]

I've noticed that there are a number of "stars" out there that started out as an instrument player, then when they became the face of the band or whatever, that they put their instrument down and just sing and be the star. It's a shame though. Think about Karen Carpenter, she'll always be remembered as the singer of many great songs, but less people realize what a great drummer she was.

[@BarneeFife]

He also wrote a few great songs including one of my favorites ‘Sweet Music Man’ which, if I remember correctly, he wrote about Waylon Jennings.

[@tenore8]

I saw the First Edition at John Carroll University in 1968, when they opened for Pat Paulson, when he was "running for president". Who knew? I was 11.

[@gemstonnee]

I love this song and i'm 42!I love the classics like this and Lucille,Coward of the County and The Gamber

[@Rusty3659]

gemstonnee Since you mentioned Lucille, were you aware that the song was based on true events? The song actually in a bar in Toledo, across the depot and witnessed the man say, "you've picked a fine time to leave me, "Lucille."" And from that much of the conversation that he heard, Kenny Rogers' career was reborn. Incidentially, his mother's name was Lucille and when the song was released, she didn't like because she thought everybody that heard was going to think that "Lucille" was her!

[@alfrede.neuman8898]

Mel Tillis wrote this song. It's about the Korean War, not Vietnam. The back story on it is he saw a couple arguing in a bar. The vet was in a wheelchair. It inspired him to write this song.

[@rhondaboncutter5812]

Kenny was so wonderful with this song! I loved him for years!

[@erickenneth1428]

Hi hope you doing good and staying safe.....!

[@jimdexter684]

Never knew Kenny could play bass like that - showing some great bass playing chops while singing at the same time.

[@YouKnowWhereYouWentWrong]

Kenny on bass (and lead vocal!) and Miss Lady with the tambourine is shutting it down. Man, this is a great live performance.

[@jefflewis4561]

also great fidelity

[@debrameade5796]

She did shut it down!

[@d.owczarzak6888]

Mary Arnold, she's from Iowa.

[@jerrymuzak4534]

Rest in peace, Kenny. I remember seeing this on tv when I was a kid. Its been with me since. God rest, Kenny Rogers.

[@TheSnowmanBKK]

This is pure class - nice improv from the band makes it a really unique version. Kenny was never more enigmatic.

[@Skhylow]

What a wonderful find!!

[@ReMarcTeesmom1]

If he never recorded another song in life.... this is his legacy. The best Kenny Rodgers song ever!!!

[@adoracle1]

This song is so incredible, I can't believe it wasn't #1, and for weeks when it came out. wow. I will remember him as long as I live, and its going to be this song he brings to mind, forever RIP beautiful Kenny

[@kgkger]

Though always a rock fanatic, including punk, alt, you name it, this song has secured a place in my heart since I first heard it. The subject always seemed relevant since I knew a few men in wheelchairs, paralyzed from waist down. From accidents or war, I always appreciated them going on with their lives. RIP, Kenny

[@charlieclark5794]

Kenny, can sing anything. Great voice. Memories.

[@galenstone9097]

Godspeed, Kenny. You played a thumping good bass.

[@hhill4413]

Saw them perform this song live in Birmingham England. Brilliant night ,plus had a nice chat with the lovely girl vocalist. A nice bonus that . Kenny Rogers ? a superb multi talented man

[@53bigmikejones]

I saw them live at the John Wayne Theater at Knotts Berry Farm many years ago. Kenny is showing his age but his music, like this song, will live on for a long time. Great group.

[@foldsofblubber]

kenny's warm slight nod to the canadian studio audience at the start says it all about the man.

[@soulpaua2097]

Tambourine lady is fucking impressive.

[@sgtrock2821]

Mary Arnold. Yeah she was hot.

[@dr.phantom5147]

Ya,about as difficult as clapping your hands. She was a genius! You wouldn't have made the comment if she was a man. 100%.The most impressive thing in that video is Kenny playing the Bass and singing,now THAT'S difficult.

[@soulpaua2097]

@@dr.phantom5147 I suppose you've never heard of Jack Ashford? There's your male percussionist. I am genuinely amazed by Mary Arnold. FYI, Playing bass and singing is not hard. Though by the state of your comment I'd say a decent fart would keep you happy. Cheers.

[@rrolison]

Mary Arnold aka Mrs Roger Miller

[@lar7905]

Yeah...this song was so relevant back in the late 60's...68 maybe...this is whenI enjoyed Kenny Roger's music. ...."Everybody there was there"

[@haggiefatigue2971]

What a great band with everyone doing their best. Impressive!

[@DeliRevv]

I was born 19 days after this show aired. Holy hell, do I feel old now.

[@lawriegraney9929]

What a group, what a song, what musicians and what singers. Love it. Too good. Perfect.

[@vincenttiggelman4978]

Was thinking about how this song just doesn't age somehow. To me, that is. I was surprised to learn it's from '69. My mom adored Kenny so i have so many good memories with this song. Still warms my insides

[@bentonvinyl]

That Bass sounds awesome. Kenny had chops besides his golden voice.

[@richardgibson8073]

Fab. And playing bass and singing at the same time is a real skill!

[@geoffdundee124]

Would be great to go back to the 70,s ..........i was 7 yrs old in 72 :))

[@renatonunes2550]

What a beautiful, touching, ballad.

[@jeswgarn]

I come here over and over just for that funky bass line.