About the song
Kenny Rogers & The First Edition’s “Something’s Burning” is a captivating track that blends elements of rock, pop, and country into a signature sound that defined much of the group’s music in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Released in 1970, the song was written by Mac Davis, a prolific songwriter known for crafting hits for artists like Elvis Presley and Glen Campbell. The track appeared on the album “Something’s Burning,” which marked a pivotal moment for Kenny Rogers and his group as they continued to evolve musically.
“Something’s Burning” is an intense, soulful love song that slowly builds in passion and energy, mirroring the fiery emotion conveyed in its lyrics. It tells the story of a love so powerful and all-consuming that it feels like a fire burning between the two lovers. Kenny Rogers’ husky, heartfelt vocals are perfectly complemented by the smooth harmonies of The First Edition, creating a rich, layered sound that keeps listeners captivated from start to finish.
The song was a commercial success, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 8 on the Adult Contemporary charts in the United States. Internationally, it also found success, particularly in Canada, where it climbed to number 5 on the charts. This broad appeal helped cement the group’s reputation as versatile performers who could seamlessly blend different musical genres to create timeless hits.
Kenny Rogers, who later became a country music icon with solo hits like “The Gambler” and “Lady,” was already making waves with his distinct voice and charismatic presence during his time with The First Edition. “Something’s Burning” stands out as a powerful showcase of Rogers’ ability to convey deep emotion, making it one of the group’s most memorable songs.
For fans of classic 1970s music, “Something’s Burning” is a quintessential track that captures the spirit of the era—bold, passionate, and filled with the kind of energy that defined the music of Kenny Rogers & The First Edition. The song continues to resonate with audiences today, a reminder of Kenny Rogers’ enduring legacy in both pop and country music.