Watch the video at the end of this article.
Introduction
Just a few nights ago, country music fans experienced a moment they will never forget when Ronnie Dunn, one half of the legendary duo Brooks & Dunn, stepped off the stage right in the middle of the encore for the classic hit “Boot Scootin’ Boogie.” The crowd, which had been on its feet singing along to every word, suddenly fell into a stunned silence as they watched the 71-year-old singer walk toward the wings, patting his chest and shaking his head.
Eyewitnesses reported that Ronnie had been breathing heavily throughout the second half of the show, sitting down during instrumental breaks and wiping sweat from his face far more frequently than usual. What many didn’t realize until later was that Ronnie had recently contracted COVID-19, followed by a painful bout of strep throat, conditions that left his lungs and throat in a weakened state. Despite doctor’s advice to rest, Ronnie had insisted on performing for the sold-out crowd, determined not to disappoint his loyal fans.
The result, however, was a dramatic reminder of the physical demands of performing live night after night. Videos of the moment quickly spread on social media, sparking concern and heartfelt messages from fans around the world. Hashtags like #PrayersForRonnie and #BootScootinStrong began trending as fellow artists and country music organizations urged him to prioritize his health. In a brief statement released the next morning, Ronnie thanked fans for their understanding and reassured them that he was undergoing treatment and would be taking some time off to recover before resuming the tour. He also expressed gratitude to his bandmates and crew for helping him exit the stage safely and to his fans for their unwavering support over the decades. While the incident was alarming, it has only strengthened the bond between Ronnie and his audience, reminding everyone that even legends are human and deserve the chance to heal.