Kenny Rogers makes new fans

Before Kenny Rogers concert at the IU Auditorium Friday, I would have in no way called myself a fan or even said I knew any of his music. \nI knew of two Kenny Rogers songs, "The Gambler" and "Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)." \nThe latter, a psychedelic single from the '60s, is heavily featured on the soundtrack of the Coen Brothers cult classic film "The Big Lebowski." \nThe former, a late '70s chart-topper, is now a cliché, and people use the refrain as a phrase in everyday speech, "You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em." \nProbably most college students recognize the native Texan not as a musician but as a restaurateur running "Kenny Rogers' Roasters" which has been parodied on television shows from Seinfeld to Jackass. \nBut regardless of Rogers' plagued past, which is known for his alcoholism and down-and-out periods, he was totally focused on giving the best show he could.\nBilly Dean proved to be a smooth prelude to Rogers' performance. Dean performed a slick acoustic set that was relaxing yet vibrant, typical of the current trend in country love songs.\nKenny Rogers lightly strutted on stage knowing that the fans were his bosses, even though most bosses do not provide enthusiastic applause for their employees.\nRogers spoke with a soft and caring voice to his fans in the audience. \nHe boasted, "Tonight we're going somewhere. Even if you're not a fan, I'll make you one. If you are an A-B-C-or-D fan, then I'll make you a super-fan." \nI admit to laughing at this and thinking that there was no way I was going to leave a "Kenny Rogers fan." \nThat being said, Rogers opened up his mental songbook and began a flurry of songs that led me through the night to a place where I sat in awe of his personality, performing talent and lighthearted tenderness. \nSome fans were called to the stage. Classic songs like "The Gambler" were sung in long rounds, and Kenny smiled down on us knowing exactly what he was doing.\nI didn't get to hear "Just Dropped In" from his First Edition days, and "The Gambler" was too fast and not as soulful. But overall, romantic tunes such as "Ruby," "Don't Fall In Love With A Dreamer" and "We've Got Tonight" (originally released as a duet with Sheena Easton) were delightful and light. \nEven though Rogers has rarely topped the charts in the '90s, his name, face and music are recognizable. \nThis recognizable factor may have gotten any able-bodied person into the door willing to take a bet. \nBut it was more than his traditional television specials, films and even fast food restaurants that make Kenny Rogers a superstar.\nKenny Rogers performs with a spirit and attitude that turned me into a fan. Heck, his spirit must have affected more tha me, as our football team actually won. \nIs this Kenny's work? \nWho knows for sure; it was a gamble.