“Something’s Burning,” though often associated with Kenny Rogers’ solo career, actually has roots in the fertile ground of 1960s rock. It was Kenny Rogers and the First Edition, a band known for their genre-bending sound, who first brought the song to life in 1970.

The driving force behind the music was songwriter Mac Davis, a name synonymous with country music hits. Davis, who penned classics for Elvis Presley like “In the Ghetto” and “A Little Less Conversation,” crafted “Something’s Burning” with a distinct rock and roll edge.

Released as a single from the album of the same name, “Something’s Burning” became a success for the First Edition. The song’s catchy melody and powerful vocals, characteristic of Kenny Rogers’ style, resonated with audiences. The lyrics, though open to interpretation, hinted at a sense of urgency and rebellion, a theme that resonated with the counterculture movement of the time.

“Something’s Burning” marked a significant moment for the First Edition. Following their psychedelic hit “Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In),” the band continued to explore a blend of rock and country influences, with “Something’s Burning” solidifying their place as a versatile group.

While Kenny Rogers would later embark on a legendary solo career, “Something’s Burning” remains a testament to the musical prowess of the First Edition. So, as the opening guitar riff rings out, prepare to be transported back to the electrifying world of 1970s rock with a touch of country twang, all delivered with the unmistakable voice of a young Kenny Rogers.