Introduction
Kenny Rogers’ “While The Feeling’s Good” isn’t one of his most well-known hits, but it’s a gem for fans of his smooth vocals and optimistic storytelling. Released in 1976 on the album “Love Lifted Me,” the song captures a specific mood – that feeling when everything seems to be clicking into place and life feels full of possibility.
Unfortunately, there’s not a lot of documented history readily available about the song’s creation or inspiration. However, considering the year of release and Rogers’ overall style at the time, we can make some educated guesses.
The mid-70s were a turning point in Rogers’ career. He was transitioning from a successful run with The First Edition to a solo career that would see him become a country music superstar. “Love Lifted Me,” the album “While The Feeling’s Good” appeared on, was a mix of country, pop, and gospel influences, reflecting Rogers’ evolving sound.
The song itself is a laid-back, acoustic number with a touch of jazz thrown in for good measure. The lyrics paint a picture of a carefree spirit, someone content to simply enjoy the moment and let the good times roll. Lines like “Let the worries fade away, like the morning mist” and “While the feeling’s good, let’s ride the wave” perfectly capture that feeling of pure optimism.
“While The Feeling’s Good” might not be a chart-topper, but it’s a delightful slice of 70s country music. It’s a song for cruising down the highway with the windows down, or relaxing on a porch swing on a warm summer night. So, put on your favorite pair of boots, lean back, and let Kenny Rogers take you on a smooth ride through a world where everything feels good.