Introduction
This iconic country ballad, released in 1969 by Kenny Rogers with his band The First Edition, tells the story of a heartbroken Vietnam veteran pleading with his wife, Ruby, not to leave him. The song paints a vivid picture of a man struggling with physical and emotional scars from the war, juxtaposed with the simple life they once shared.
“Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love To Town” wasn’t originally a massive hit, but it gained national attention in the late 1970s due to several factors. The song resonated with veterans returning from the Vietnam War, and a powerful duet version by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton in 1980 further cemented its place in country music history.
The song’s themes of love, loss, and the lingering effects of war continue to resonate with listeners today. It’s become a staple of classic country radio and a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served.