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Introduction
The Daddy of ’em All made a surprising and unforgettable appearance at Country Music’s biggest celebration — the CMA Awards — thanks to legendary country duo Brooks & Dunn. On Wednesday night, the pair took home yet another major honor, winning the coveted Vocal Duo of the Year award. This victory marks their 16th win in the category and brings their career total to an astonishing 20 CMA trophies, officially crowning them as the most-awarded performers in CMA Awards history.
While the award itself was headline-worthy, fans from Colorado and Wyoming noticed something extra special. As Ronnie Dunn stepped up to accept the honor, he proudly sported a Cheyenne Frontier Days belt buckle — a symbol deeply tied to one of the most iconic Western celebrations in the country. The crowd may have been focused on the award, but those familiar with the rodeo world immediately recognized the gleaming buckle around his waist.
For artists who perform at Cheyenne Frontier Days, earning a custom buckle is more than just a gift — it’s a badge of honor. Known as The Daddy of ’em All, the event has a long history of bringing top-tier country stars to Wyoming, and Brooks & Dunn have graced that stage multiple times over the years, most recently performing just last year. Their return appearances have made them fan favorites and honorary fixtures of the event.
Seeing Ronnie proudly showcase his buckle during one of the industry’s most televised and glamorous evenings was a powerful nod to the bond between country music and cowboy culture. It was a subtle but meaningful reminder that no matter how big the stage or how bright the spotlight, the roots of country music often lead back to dusty arenas, rodeo crowds, and wide-open Western skies.
Brooks & Dunn may have walked away with another CMA milestone, but for fans of Cheyenne Frontier Days, the real highlight was witnessing Ronnie Dunn represent the rodeo world with pride. A simple belt buckle became a statement — one celebrating tradition, legacy, and the enduring spirit of country music.
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