Introduction:
In 1970, amidst the cultural and musical upheaval of the late 1960s, a song emerged that captured a simpler sentiment: the all-consuming flame of new love. “Something’s Burning,” by Kenny Rogers & The First Edition, became a global hit, showcasing the band’s ability to blend folk, rock, and country influences into a sound that resonated with a wide audience.
The song, written by the prolific singer-songwriter Mac Davis, arrived on the heels of The First Edition’s previous success, “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town” (1969). “Something’s Burning” served as the title track for their fifth studio album, released that same year. While Rogers himself had a hand in producing some of their earlier work, this album saw a shift towards producers Jimmy Bowen and Mike Post, who would become instrumental figures in Rogers’ later solo career.
“Something’s Burning” unfolds as a tender conversation between lovers. The opening verse paints a picture of intimacy, with Rogers’ smooth vocals describing a stolen moment beside a sleeping partner. The lyrics, “Listen, can you not hear our young hearts beating?” set the stage for a song that celebrates the exhilarating rush of new love. The chorus explodes with the revelation, “Something’s burning / And I think it’s love,” a sentiment both simple and powerful.
The song’s success transcended genre boundaries. It reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and peaked at number 8 in the United Kingdom, showcasing its international appeal. Despite its popularity, “Something’s Burning” faced some unexpected resistance. Some radio stations, misinterpreting the song’s passionate lyrics, opted to ban it, highlighting the sometimes-arbitrary lines drawn within the music industry.
“Something’s Burning” remains a cornerstone of Kenny Rogers & The First Edition’s legacy. It stands as a testament to the band’s ability to craft relatable songs that resonated with audiences across generations. The song’s enduring popularity is a reminder of the universal language of love, a feeling that continues to inspire artists and listeners alike.