Watch the video at the end of this article.
Introduction
At 71 years old, Ronnie Dunn has finally spoken—lifting the veil on stories fans never knew existed about Brooks & Dunn.
For more than thirty years, the duo has been one of country music’s most dominant forces. Their sound shaped stadium tours, sparked dance crazes, and carved itself permanently into the roots of the genre. Iconic tracks such as Boot Scootin’ Boogie, Only in America, and My Maria didn’t just climb the charts — they defined a generation. Despite the fame, awards, and historic success, much of what truly happened behind the scenes between Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks remained a mystery. Until now.
A Risk That Rewrote Country History
In 1990, Nashville wasn’t convinced the collaboration would work. Both men had talent, grit, and passion — but neither had found their breakthrough as solo artists. Kix brought charisma and a natural entertainer’s spirit. Ronnie delivered powerful vocals rooted deeply in gospel emotion and honky-tonk realism. When they joined forces for their 1991 debut album, Brand New Man, everything changed. The record exploded, delivering four back-to-back No. 1 singles and altering the direction of country music for years to come.
What Fans Never Saw
Dunn’s recent revelations show a different side of success. “People assumed we were always in sync,” he explained, “but the truth is, we clashed often.” The pressure of fame affected them differently. While Brooks thrived around crowds and cameras, Dunn frequently retreated, trying to balance his private nature with life under a spotlight that never dimmed.
The Separation — and What Followed
Their decision to part ways in 2010 stunned the industry. Dunn says the split wasn’t failure — it was survival. “We needed space. We needed identity outside the name.” During their hiatus, he pursued solo work and rediscovered his voice as a songwriter. In 2015, a Las Vegas residency alongside Reba McEntire brought the duo back together — proving the connection had never fully dissolved.
A Legacy Defined
Reflecting at 71, Dunn doesn’t focus on disagreements or pressure — but on meaning. “We weren’t flawless,” he said. “But the music was honest. That’s why it lasted.”
To fans, that honesty wasn’t just heard — it was felt. Brooks & Dunn didn’t simply create hits. They reshaped country music forever.