Kenny Rogers + Dolly Parton - You Can't Make Old Friends Lyrics
Lyrics
What will I do when you are gone?
Who's gonna tell me the truth?
Who's gonna finish the stories I start
The way you always do?
When somebody knocks at the door
Someone new walks in
I will smile and shake their hands
But you can't make old friends
You can't make old friends
Can't make old friends
It was me and you, since way back when
But you can't make old friends
How will I sing when you are gone?
Cause it wont sound the same
Who will join in on those harmony parts
When I call your name?
You can't make old friends
Can't make old friends
It was you and me, since way back when
But you can't make old friends
When Saint Peter opens the gate
And you come walking in
I will be there just waiting for you
Cause you can't make old friends
Cause you can't make old friends
When I am out on the stage all alone
And I hear the music begin
We all know the show must go on
But you can't make old friends
You can't make old friends
Can't make old friends
And you and me, will be young again
You can't make old friends
You and me, will be together again
Cause we both know, we will still be old friends
You can't make old friends
Not the way we have always been
Video
Kenny Rogers - You Can't Make Old Friends (duet with Dolly Parton) [Official Video]
Meaning & Inspiration
Released as the title track of the 2014 album, "You Can't Make Old Friends" by country music titans Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, this duet delves into the profound and irreplaceable nature of enduring friendships. The song's narrative centers on the deep void left by the departure of a lifelong companion, exploring the unique comfort and shared history that only such bonds can provide. It articulates a universal truth: while new relationships can be formed and valued, they cannot replicate the interwoven tapestry of experiences, understanding, and unconditional acceptance that characterizes friendships forged over many years. The lyrics express a poignant longing for the familiar presence of this old friend, someone who understood unspoken thoughts, finished unfinished sentences, and provided a genuine voice of truth. This sentiment echoes the Apostle Paul's words in Philippians 2:4, where he encourages believers to "look not only to your own interests, but each of you to the interests of the others," highlighting the selfless regard that characterizes deep, established connections. The song further contemplates the loneliness of facing life's milestones without this cornerstone relationship, questioning how one will navigate future joys and sorrows when a key confidant is absent. This resonates with the wisdom found in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, which states, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." The ultimate hope expressed, particularly in the latter verses, shifts towards a reunion beyond earthly existence, a vision of enduring fellowship in a heavenly realm. This optimistic outlook finds grounding in biblical promises of eternal life and community, such as those found in Revelation 21:4, which foretells a time when "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." The song, through its heartfelt sincerity, serves as a beautiful meditation on the enduring power of true friendship, a gift as precious and timeless as the Word of God itself, reminding us of the immeasurable value of those who have walked with us through life's journey, both the joys and the challenges.