Brooks & Dunn: Did You Know?
Brooks & Dunn: Fun Facts & Untold Stories About the Legendary Country Duo
Brooks & Dunn are icons of country music, known for their unforgettable hits, electrifying performances, and an impressive career that has spanned over three decades. Composed of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, the duo has dominated the country music scene with their signature blend of honky-tonk and contemporary sound. While their chart-topping success and accolades are widely known, there are some fascinating and lesser-known stories about Brooks & Dunn that reveal just how unique their journey has been.
Here are some fun facts and untold stories about Brooks & Dunn that even die-hard fans might not know!
1. They Didn’t Start as a Duo
Though they’re now inseparable in the country music world, Brooks & Dunn weren’t always a duo. In fact, both Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn pursued solo careers before they joined forces. Kix was working as a songwriter in Nashville, writing songs for artists like John Conlee, and Ronnie was performing in Texas honky-tonks. It was Tim DuBois, a Nashville record executive, who had the idea to pair them together.
Fun Fact: When Tim DuBois suggested that they collaborate, both Brooks and Dunn were skeptical. They were solo artists, after all! But after just one session together, they realized that their voices and styles complemented each other perfectly—and the rest is history.
2. Their First Album Produced Five Number One Singles
After joining forces, Brooks & Dunn quickly recorded their debut album, Brand New Man, in 1991. The album was an instant hit, spawning an impressive five number-one singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Tracks like "Boot Scootin' Boogie," "Neon Moon," and "My Next Broken Heart" became anthems for country fans, and the album's success firmly established them as a powerhouse duo.
Fun Fact: "Boot Scootin' Boogie" wasn’t originally written for Brooks & Dunn. Kix Brooks penned the song a few years earlier while working on his solo career, but the duo’s version helped ignite the line-dancing craze of the early 90s.
3. Ronnie Dunn Was Kicked Out of Seminary School
Believe it or not, before he became one of the most recognizable voices in country music, Ronnie Dunn was studying to become a Baptist minister. He attended Abilene Christian University with the intention of pursuing religious studies. However, his love of music led him to perform in local bars, which wasn’t exactly in line with the school’s expectations.
Fun Fact: Dunn was eventually asked to leave seminary school for performing in honky-tonks. Lucky for us, he chose music over ministry, and his powerful voice has since graced some of the greatest country songs ever recorded.
4. They’re Both Talented Songwriters
While Brooks & Dunn are best known for their performances, they’re also accomplished songwriters. Kix Brooks, in particular, had a successful songwriting career before teaming up with Dunn. He co-wrote "Modern Day Romance," which became a number-one hit for The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Ronnie Dunn also wrote or co-wrote many of Brooks & Dunn’s hits, including the deeply emotional “Believe,” which won several awards and is considered one of the duo’s most powerful songs.
Fun Fact: "Believe," written by Ronnie Dunn and Craig Wiseman, was a deeply personal song for Dunn. Its message of faith and resilience resonated with listeners and won the duo numerous accolades, including the 2006 CMA Award for Single of the Year.
5. They Hold the Record for Most CMA Duo of the Year Wins
Brooks & Dunn’s influence in country music can be measured not just in their hit songs but also in the number of awards they’ve received. One of their most impressive feats is holding the record for the most CMA Awards for Vocal Duo of the Year, with a whopping 16 wins! From 1992 to 2006, they were practically unbeatable in the category, only losing once during that time.
Fun Fact: After dominating the Vocal Duo category for so many years, Brooks & Dunn chose to retire from it voluntarily in 2000, stating they wanted to "give others a chance." Still, they went on to win it several more times after that.
6. They "Broke Up" in 2010—But Not for Long
In 2010, Brooks & Dunn shocked fans when they announced their retirement as a duo after nearly 20 years of success. They even embarked on a “Last Rodeo” farewell tour, which sold out across the country. However, the split wasn’t due to any bad blood or drama. The two simply wanted to pursue solo projects and take a break from the constant touring schedule.
Fun Fact: Despite the split, it didn’t take long for Brooks & Dunn to reunite. In 2015, they teamed up with country legend Reba McEntire for a residency in Las Vegas, and the partnership was so successful that it’s still ongoing today! Their reunion brought the duo back to the stage and into the hearts of fans who never stopped hoping for their return.
7. They Love Practical Jokes
One of the reasons Brooks & Dunn have had such enduring chemistry is their shared sense of humor. Both Kix and Ronnie are known for pulling pranks on each other and their crew while on tour. From sneaking up on stage in ridiculous costumes to pulling classic practical jokes on their band members, the duo kept things light-hearted even during grueling tour schedules.
Fun Fact: During one concert, Kix Brooks decided to sneak onstage during Ronnie’s performance, dressed as Elvis Presley. The surprise appearance left the audience and Ronnie Dunn laughing, showcasing the fun-loving dynamic between the two.
8. Kix Brooks Is an Actor and Radio Host
Kix Brooks has explored many creative avenues outside of music, including acting and hosting a radio show. He’s appeared in several films and TV shows, including Ambush at Dark Canyon, a Western film in which he played a lead role. In addition, since 2006, Brooks has hosted American Country Countdown, a nationally syndicated country music countdown show that remains one of the most popular in the genre.
Fun Fact: Despite his many ventures, Brooks never strayed far from music. Even in his acting roles, his passion for storytelling through music remained evident, and he continued to tour and release solo albums.
Brooks & Dunn’s Enduring Legacy
With their unforgettable hits, timeless harmonies, and undeniable chemistry, Brooks & Dunn have cemented their place as one of country music’s greatest duos. Their story is one of unlikely partnerships, hard work, and a shared passion for music that has captivated fans for decades. From their humble beginnings as solo artists to their record-breaking run as a duo, Brooks & Dunn continue to influence the genre and entertain fans around the world.
Whether they’re performing classic hits or exploring new creative ventures, one thing’s for sure: the legacy of Brooks & Dunn will continue to shine brightly in the world of country music.
One of Brooks & Dunn's best and most iconic lines comes from their hit song Believe:
"I raise my hands, bow my head / I'm finding more and more truth in the words written in red"
This line captures the emotional depth and spiritual resonance that the duo is known for, particularly in their ballads. Believe won multiple awards and became one of their most beloved tracks for its powerful message of faith and resilience.
Another classic line comes from their song Neon Moon:
"When the sun goes down on my side of town / That lonesome feeling comes to my door"
This opening line sets the tone for one of their most well-known songs, with its blend of heartbreak and nostalgia, making it a favorite among fans for decades.
Both of these lines reflect the emotional range and authenticity that have defined Brooks & Dunn’s long-lasting impact in country music.