Kenny Rogers to Release New Christmas Album

Kenny Rogers has an early Christmas gift for his fans: The 76-year-old has announced that he will release a new holiday-themed album, Once Again It's Christmas, in 2015.

The new project will be Rogers' first Christmas record in 17 years and his sixth overall; his last holiday album, Christmas From the Heart, was released in 1998. Artists including Alison Krauss, Jennifer Nettles, Home Free, Jim Brickman and Winfield’s Locket all collaborated with Rogers on various tracks for the new album.

“I can’t tell you how much fun it was recording a Christmas record again,” Rogers says. “I’m excited for people to hear it. I feel like this is a special group of songs — both old and new — and I was particularly lucky to be joined by many talented guest artists and musicians who each have something unique to say.”

Although it's been a while since he's released a new Christmas record, the Country Music Hall of Fame member has continued to help spread holiday cheer each year. Since the release of his first holiday album, Christmas, in 1981, Rogers has annually embarked on his Christmas & Hits Tour, which will celebrate its 34th year in 2015.

“Christmas is my favorite time of year," Rogers says. "It’s a very important season for me, especially now that I have twin boys who just turned 11 years old. It’s reminded me of how you see it through different eyes when you’re a parent. It’s wonderful."

Dates for Rogers' 2015 Once Again It's Christmas Tour, featuring Linda Davis, will be available shortly. There is no word yet on an album release date.

Rogers is currently on his 2015 Through the Years World Tour. A list of upcoming shows is available on his website.