Song Spotlight: “You Can’t Make Old Friends”

• Mood: Sentimental, Nostalgic, Reflective 
• Themes: Friendship, Country, Companionship
• Tempo: Moderate  
• Genre/Style: Country, Country Ballad 

“You Can’t Make Old Friends” is a touching duet by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton released as part of Kenny Rogers’s 2013 album of the same name.

Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton are two country musicians who shared a lasting friendship over the course of their careers. They had previously collaborated on several hit songs, including “Islands in the Stream.” “You Can’t Make Old Friends” marked their first duet in nearly 30 years when it was released in 2013.

This song reflects on the value of long-standing friendships and the unique bond that grows deeper with time. It celebrates the irreplaceable connection between old friends. In an interview, Rogers said, “out of everyone in the business, Dolly is my best friend, so naturally it has special meaning for the both of us. I can’t think of a more perfect song for the two of us to sing together”. 

Here are some of the 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?

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

Try This:

This is a great song to use in a 1:1 setting or group and would go well with a collection of songs that explore the theme of friendship, country music, and companionship. 

Theme: This song would fit well into a country music or friendship theme. 

Listen and watch a recording of Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton singing and discussing this song.

Add movement and invite participants in slow expressive movements to this song. 

Use scarves and engage participants in different ways of moving their scarves . 

Show a photo of Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers and talk about their friendship while listening to this song. 

Invite participants to talk and share about meaningful/close friendships in their lives.

For more song spotlights, visit our Song Spotlights page.