Brooks & Dunn, the iconic country music duo, left fans wondering about their fate when they announced their retirement in 2009. However, their story is not one of a permanent breakup but rather a testament to their enduring friendship and individual pursuits. In this article, we will delve into the details of what happened to Brooks and Dunn, why they decided to take a hiatus, and how they eventually reunited to create music once again.
The Retirement Announcement
Before we uncover the reasons behind their temporary departure, it’s important to recognize the musical powerhouse that Brooks & Dunn was. The duo, consisting of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, formed in 1990 and quickly rose to prominence in the country music scene. Their debut album, “Brand New Man,” released in 1991, catapulted them to fame with its neotraditional country sound.
Over the years, they continued to release successful albums like “Hard Workin’ Man,” “Waitin’ on Sundown,” and “Steers & Stripes,” earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Their impact on popularizing country music can be seen in chart-topping singles like “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” which even influenced line dancing in the United States.
| Birth name | Leon Eric Brooks III |
| Born | May 12, 1955 |
| Age | 68 |
| Birthplace | Shreveport, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Genres | Country |
| Occupation(s) | Singer-songwriter, musician,
radio personality, producer |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals, guitar, mandolin, harmonica, piano |
| Years active | 1983–present |
| Labels | Avion, Capitol, Arista Nashville |
The Farewell Tour
In 2009, Brooks & Dunn made a joint announcement that took the music world by surprise – they were retiring. However, it wasn’t a breakup driven by conflicts or creative differences; instead, it was a mutual decision to conclude their partnership on a high note. Both Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn emphasized that their friendship remained strong despite the end of their musical collaboration.
The duo embarked on a farewell tour titled “The Last Rodeo,” giving fans the opportunity to witness their incredible performances one last time. The tour concluded on September 2, 2010, with an emotional concert at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.
Solo Pursuits
Post-retirement, both Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn ventured into solo careers. Kix Brooks, born Leon Eric “Kix” Brooks III, had a successful career as a songwriter in the 1980s before teaming up with Ronnie Dunn. He is recognized for co-writing many of their chart-topping hits. Additionally, Brooks explored acting and radio hosting, showcasing his multifaceted talents.
On the other hand, Ronnie Dunn, born Ronnie Gene Dunn, began his musical journey by playing bass guitar in local bands during high school. Although he briefly pursued theology studies, his passion for music led him to Nashville, where he connected with Kix Brooks. His distinctive voice and songwriting skills contributed significantly to the duo’s signature sound. Post-retirement, Ronnie Dunn released solo albums that showcased his talent and creativity.
The Reunion
While their retirement marked the end of an era, it was not the end of the road for Brooks & Dunn. In 2015, they surprised fans by reuniting for a series of concerts in Las Vegas, alongside Reba McEntire. This unexpected collaboration reignited their musical spark, and they continued to engage in occasional performances.
In 2019, Brooks & Dunn made a remarkable comeback with the release of their collaborative album titled “Reboot.” This album featured re-recorded versions of their classic hits, each performed with contemporary country artists. The album not only showcased their enduring appeal but also introduced their music to a new generation of listeners.
FAQs: What Happened to Brooks and Dunn?
- What happened to Brooks and Dunn? Brooks & Dunn retired in 2009 but reunited for concerts in 2015 and released the album “Reboot” in 2019.
- Who is Brooks? Kix Brooks, born in 1955, is one half of Brooks & Dunn, known for his songwriting and hosting endeavors.
- Who is Dunn? Ronnie Dunn, born in 1953, is the other half of the duo, known for his bass guitar playing and successful solo career.
- Did Brooks and Dunn break up? No, they retired in 2009 but reunited for special events and collaborations.
- What is Brooks and Dunn’s net worth? Their net worth is an impressive $100 million, a reflection of their successful country music career and enduring impact on the genre.
In conclusion, Brooks & Dunn’s journey is a testament to the strength of their friendship and their individual musical talents. While they took a break from their partnership, their reunion and continued success with “Reboot” prove that they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of country music. So, while they may have retired, they certainly didn’t say goodbye for good. They continue to be a beloved and influential duo in the country music industry.
