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Ronnie Dunn was studying to be a preacher while Kix Brooks was already a working Nashville songwriter with hits on the radio. Neither one planned on becoming half of the biggest duo in country music history, and neither one really wanted to be tied to a partner.

This week on Once Around the Country, our host, Gary Scott Thomas, walks through the real story of Brooks & Dunn, from a Nashville meeting neither man asked for, to three straight number one singles to a farewell tour that didn't stick and the reunion that proved some partnerships are worth fighting to keep.

Give it a listen today. We think you'll walk away with a whole new appreciation for the two guys behind "Neon Moon."

In This Episode:

• How Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks were introduced by producer Tim DuBois
• The story behind their first single, "Brand New Man," and writing three hits in one session
• Why Kix Brooks was considered the bigger star when the duo formed
• The disagreement over recording "My Maria" and why it became their biggest hit
• How "Only in America" ended up as a campaign song for both parties
• Brooks & Dunn's first attempted breakup and the record executive who talked them out of it
• The Last Rodeo farewell tour and what changed Ronnie Dunn's mind
• Why Reboot and Reboot 2 brought a new generation of country stars into their catalog
• What it's really like watching Brooks & Dunn open for Morgan Wallen today

This episode is sponsored by:

Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!)

License #: 679261

Bison Junk Removal

Brooks and Dunn:

Brooks & Dunn, made up of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, became one of the most successful duos in country music history. They came together in Nashville in the late 1980s and quickly found success with hits like “Brand New Man,” “Neon Moon,” “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” and “My Maria.” Their partnership produced years of awards, chart-topping songs, and unforgettable live performances, even as the two men eventually tried to go their separate ways twice. Somehow, they kept finding their way back to the music that made them one of country’s most beloved duos.

Website: https://www.brooks-dunn.com/

Tags: Brooks & Dunn, Ronnie Dunn, Kix Brooks, Brooks and Dunn breakup, Brooks & Dunn history, Brooks & Dunn story, Neon Moon, Brand New Man, My Maria, country music history, country music duos, Nashville music, Last Rodeo, Brooks & Dunn Reboot

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