Watch the video at the end of this article.
Introduction
In August 1999, the iconic country duo Brooks & Dunn unveiled their moving rendition of “Missing You” as the lead single from their sixth studio record, Tight Rope. The track, originally crafted and performed by John Waite in collaboration with Mark Leonard and Chas Sandford in 1984, had long since established itself as a pop-rock staple. Waite’s version not only soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 but also left a lasting imprint with its poignant lyrics and emotional resonance.
Brooks & Dunn reimagined the classic with a distinctly country flavor, layering it with their trademark style: rich, melodic storytelling paired with heartfelt harmonies. Ronnie Dunn’s soulful, commanding vocals contrasted beautifully with Kix Brooks’ energetic delivery, creating a version that carried both reverence for the original and the duo’s unmistakable stamp. Their cover achieved modest success on the charts, climbing to number 15 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs, securing the sixth spot on Canada’s RPM Country Tracks, and reaching number 75 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Although Tight Rope ultimately became one of the pair’s less successful albums commercially—marking their first release not to earn RIAA platinum status—the inclusion of “Missing You” revealed their artistic willingness to step beyond radio-driven hits. Choosing this particular song allowed them to engage with material of deeper emotional complexity while paying homage to a timeless piece of musical history.
To accompany the single, a music video directed by Deaton Flanigen brought further dimension to the track, visually capturing its themes of heartache, longing, and emotional vulnerability.
Brooks & Dunn’s interpretation remains both a heartfelt homage and a creative reinvention. Rooted in John Waite’s intensely personal reflections on separation and yearning, the song was transformed through a country lens that spotlighted the duo’s gift for emotional expression and nuanced delivery. In doing so, Brooks & Dunn not only honored the song’s origins but also extended its legacy, proving that a deeply felt classic can transcend genres and generations.
Video