Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn are one of the most successful double acts, if not the most successful, in country music history. Together, they have sold over 35 million records, enjoyed 20 number one hits, and won over 75 music industry awards.
Their hits include: My Next Broken Heart, Boot Scootin' Boogie , My Maria, Mama Don't Get Dressed Up for Nothing, You're Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone, and their recent collaboration with Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, Honky Tonk Stomp .
The End of the Red Dirt Road
In August 2009, after nearly 20 years at the top, Brooks & Dunn decided to call time on working together as a duo and released the following statement on their website:
"After 20 years of making music and riding this trail together, we have agreed as a duo that it's time to call it a day. This ride has been everything and more than we could ever have dreamed. We owe it all to you, the fans. If you hear rumors, don't believe them, it's just time."
They subsequently announced a farewell nation-wide series of shows entitled The Last Rodeo Tour.
Kix Brooks Talks Exclusively to Suite 101
Why have you both decided to call it quits?
"After 20 years, we’re kind of exhausted of Brooks & Dunn as a duo. Creatively, and I like to think that Ronnie and I are creative people, you look for other things to do. You only live once and we’re both 55 years old, so it's now or never. I’ve got a lot of things going on. I’ve got a winery, I’ve got my radio show (Kix hosts the American Country Countdown). It’s not like I’m retiring."
In 20 years of Brooks & Dunn, what would you say has been your proudest achievement?
"Honestly, just 20 years. Neither of us had the intention of being a duo for more than an album. Our record company asked if we would work together, next thing we know 20 years have gone by. The fact they we were able to turn those songs into a career was very special. I’m kind of proud of hanging in there."
Many of your songs have been inspired by Mexico, or have a Mexican "feel" ( Lost and Found, Tequila Town, My Heart is Lost to You etc.) Any chance of bringing the Last Rodeo Tour south-of-the-border?
"I'd like to. There are no plans to as of yet. I don't know where we'd play!"
Future Reunions
Do you think you and Ronnie will get back together again one day?
"I don’t know know if we’ll ever tour together again. I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if we make another album, though."
Hopefully, the world hasn't heard the last of Brooks & Dunn.
Adrian Peel - Adrian is an English freelance writer and journalist currently living in Mexico. Over the past eight years, he has had articles, features ...
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