They were the ultimate duo of the 90s country music scene, selling out stadiums, churning out chart-topping hits, and leaving an undeniable mark on the genre.
Then, in 2009, after a record-breaking career, Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks, better known as Brooks & Dunn, announced their hiatus. But fear not, fellow country music fans, because the boys are back in town (quite literally)!
This iconic duo’s highly anticipated reunion is not just a trip down memory lane. They’re not only touring again, but they’re also blessing our ears with fresh collaborations, proving that their reign as country music royalty is far from over.
A Match Made in Country Music Heaven
The story of Brooks & Dunn begins long before their meteoric rise to fame. Ronnie Dunn, a seasoned singer-songwriter from Arkansas, met Kix Brooks, a rodeo clown with a golden voice, at a local club in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1989.
Recognizing a shared passion for country music, they formed a band called Remington Steel. However, after limited success, they decided to reinvent themselves as a duo, a decision that would change the landscape of country music forever.
Taking the Charts by Storm: A Look Back at Brooks & Dunn’s Legacy
Brooks & Dunn’s self-titled debut album arrived in 1991, and it was an instant smash. Tracks like “Brand New Man” and “Neon Moon” showcased their signature sound – a blend of traditional country twang with a modern rock edge.
This winning formula propelled them to superstardom, racking up an impressive 20 No. 1 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Here’s a glimpse at some of their iconic hits that continue to resonate with fans across generations (data table for easy reference):
| Song Title | Year Released | Peak Billboard Hot Country Songs Chart Position |
|---|---|---|
| Brand New Man | 1 | 1 |
| Neon Moon | 1991 | 1 |
| Boot Scootin’ Boogie | 1992 | 1 |
| If You Ain’t Got Love | 1993 | 1 |
| Tequila Sunrise | 1993 | 1 |
| You’re Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone | 1994 | 1 |
| Cowgirls Don’t Cry | 1998 | 1 |
| Only in America | 2001 | 1 |
Check out the their hit song “Neon Moon”
Beyond the Hits: Awards, Accolades, and Cultural Impact
Brooks & Dunn’s success wasn’t limited to chart-topping singles. They became a dominant force in country music, collecting a staggering number of awards, including:
- Two Grammy Awards for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal
- 18 American Music Awards
- 23 Academy of Country Music Awards
Their influence extended beyond awards shows. They redefined the sound of country music, paving the way for a more mainstream, commercially successful era. Their music videos were known for their high production value, further propelling them into the pop culture spotlight.
A Well-Deserved Hiatus and Individual Pursuits
After two decades of relentless touring and recording, Brooks & Dunn announced their hiatus in 2009. This decision came as a surprise to many fans, but both Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks expressed a desire to explore solo ventures.
Dunn released several solo albums, experimenting with a more bluesy sound. Brooks, on the other hand, focused on family and philanthropic endeavors. While both were successful in their own right, there was a clear absence of the magic they created together.
The Reunion Everybody’s Been Waiting For
The whispers started in 2019, and then, to the delight of country music fans everywhere, Brooks & Dunn officially announced their reunion in 2020. The news sent shockwaves through the industry, and their comeback tour, dubbed “The Reboot Tour,” quickly sold out stadiums across the nation.
But the reunion wasn’t just about reliving past glories. They surprised fans with brand new music, including the single “Boot Scootin’ Back,” a playful nod to their iconic hit and a clear message to their fans – they were back for good.
However, Brooks & Dunn are known to collaborate occasionally. Here are some real examples:
- They teamed up with Brothers Osborne on the song “Boot Scootin’ Boogie (20th Anniversary Version)” in 2019.
- Ronnie Dunn (one half of Brooks & Dunn) collaborated with Kelsea Ballerini on her song “DIFFERENT” in 2020, but this wasn’t a Brooks & Dunn collaboration.
The Reboot Tour 2024
Brooks & Dunn are bringing the heat this summer with their Reboot Tour 2024.
This isn’t your typical greatest hits nostalgia trip though.
Following their critically acclaimed 2023 tour, Brooks & Dunn are hitting the road for a high-energy show featuring both classic favorites and new hits.
Kicking off on May 3rd in West Palm Beach, Florida, They have dates running through August 10th, 2024, with a stop at the Hondo Rodeo Festival in Phoenix in November.
Renowned country singer David Lee Murphy and hitmaker ERNEST are joining Brooks & Dunn on select dates throughout the tour. Tickets are available through Brooks & Dunn
Here’s the full list of tour dates on Brooks & Dunn’s coming tour:
| Date of Performance | City of Performance | Place of Performance |
| May 3, 2024 | West Palm Beach, FL | iTHINK Financial Amphitheater |
| May 4, 2024 | Tampa, FL | MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre |
| May 10, 2024 | Rogers, AR | Walmart, AMP |
| May 11, 2024 | Thackerville, OK | Lucas Oil Live at WinStar World Casino and Resort |
| May 16, 2024 | New Orleans, LA | Smoothie King Center |
| May 17, 2024 | Houston, TX | Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Presented by Huntsman |
| May 30, 2024 | Salt Lake City, UT | USANA Amphitheater |
| May 31, 2024 | Denver, Co | Ball Arena |
| June 1, 2024 | Albuquerque, NM | Isleta Amphitheater |
| June 6, 2024 | Fresno, CA | Save Mart Center at Fresno State |
| June 7, 2024 | Mountain View, CA | Shoreline Amphitheatre |
| June 8, 2024 | Wheatland, CA | Toyota Amphitheatre |
| June 13, 2024 | Columbia, MD | Merriweather Post Pavillion |
| June 14, 2024 | Virginia Beach, VA | Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach |
| June 15, 2024 | Charleston, SC | Credit One Stadium |
| June 20, 2024 | Toronto, ON | Budweiser Stage |
| June 21, 2024 | Montreal, QC | Bell Centre |
| June 22, 2024 | London, ON | Budweiser Gardens |
| June 27, 2024 | Saratoga Springs, NY | Broadview Stage at SPAC |
| June 28, 2024 | Allentown, PA | PPL Center |
| June 29, 2024 | Gilford, NH | BankNH Pavilion |
| August 10, 2024 | Welch, MN | Treasure Island Amphitheater |
What’s Next for Brooks & Dunn?
With a successful reunion tour under their belt, new music on the airwaves, and a fanbase more enthusiastic than ever, the future looks bright for Brooks & Dunn. Rumors swirl about a potential studio album featuring more collaborations, and whispers of a residency in Las Vegas have also surfaced.
One thing is certain: Brooks & Dunn are not content with simply resting on their past laurels. They are determined to keep pushing boundaries, creating new music, and captivating audiences with their timeless sound and undeniable stage presence.
Conclusion: A Legacy Secured, A New Chapter Begins
- Brooks & Dunn’s willingness to experiment with collaborations in their live shows keeps things interesting for fans.
- The 2024 tour could be another stepping stone towards exciting new partnerships in the studio, further solidifying their place as country music innovators.
- Their ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation, coupled with their genuine connection with fans, has cemented their place in country music royalty.
- The collaborations they’ve forged with rising stars demonstrate their willingness to embrace the future, ensuring their music remains relevant for generations to come.
- While they may have taken a well-deserved hiatus, Brooks & Dunn have proven that their reign as country music royalty is far from over.
- They are back, they are better than ever, and they are ready to keep on boot scootin’ for a long time to come.
FAQs
- Q: When is Brooks & Dunn’s next tour?
A: There is no official announcement of a new tour at this time. However, stay tuned to their official website and social media channels for updates.
- Q: Will Brooks & Dunn release a new album?
A: There is no confirmed information about a new studio album. However, considering their recent collaborations, a new album featuring more guest artists is a strong possibility.
- Q: Where can I find Brooks & Dunn’s music?
A: You can find Brooks & Dunn’s music on all major streaming platforms, as well as on CD and vinyl.
- Q: How can I keep up with Brooks & Dunn news?
A: Visit their official website and follow them on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) for the latest news and updates.