Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, the legendary country music duo, skyrocketed to fame in the early 1990s with their unique blend of honky-tonk rhythms and rock influences. They quickly became a fixture in the country music scene, known for chart-topping hits like “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” and “My Maria.”
Their discography is a treasure trove of greatest hits, showcasing their ability to consistently deliver hit after hit while earning numerous awards and accolades. Their electrifying performances and memorable lyrics also resonated with fans across generations.
Even in 2024, their legacy endures, as they continue to captivate audiences with their timeless sound, proving that Brooks & Dunn remains as relevant and beloved as ever.
Top Brooks & Dunn Songs List
Now, let’s dive into the 12 best Brooks & Dunn songs, a collection that highlights the duo’s most iconic tracks.
From timeless ballads to crowd-pleasers, these songs were chosen for their lasting impact on country music and their ability to capture the essence of Brooks & Dunn’s signature style.
1. Neon Moon
“Neon Moon,” the third single from Brooks & Dunn’s debut album Brand New Man (1991), has become one of the duo’s most beloved tracks. With its haunting lyrics about loneliness and heartache, the song captures a timeless, melancholic mood that resonates deeply with listeners.
Despite lacking the usual country clichés like trucks or getting drunk, it remains a fan favorite, boasting over 261 million streams on Spotify.
In 2019, Brooks & Dunn revisited this classic and recorded a new version with Kacey Musgraves for their Reboot album.
2. My Maria
Brooks & Dunn’s rendition of this classic country song brought them immense success, reaching No. 1 on the US country music chart and earning the duo a Grammy in 1997.
Originally performed by B.W. Stevenson, the cover song stays remarkably true to the original, with Ronnie Dunn’s vocals echoing Stevenson’s distinctive style.
Billboard named it the top country song of 1996, cementing its place in country music history and showcasing the duo’s exceptional talent.
3. Red Dirt Road
Brooks & Dunn knew they had something special when they finished this track, viewing it as a career-defining moment. The song’s lyrics go beyond typical country themes, offering a deeper reflection on life’s journey and the lessons learned along the way.
Even those who aren’t fans of country music can appreciate the craftsmanship and emotion in this performance. It’s a testament to the duo’s evolution and the powerful connection they’ve made with their audience.
4. Boot Scootin’ Boogie
Packed dance floors and country rhythms made this honky tonk track an instant hit, with lyrics like “Heel, toe, dosey doe, come on baby let’s go boot scootin’,” setting the stage for a night of line dancing.
Originally recorded by Asleep at the Wheel, Brooks & Dunn’s version skyrocketed to fame. It’s their most viewed song on YouTube with 133 million views and has 218 million Spotify streams.
This cover truly captured the essence of country nightlife and eventually sparked a line dancing craze across the US.
5. Brand New Man
This country classic kicked off Brooks & Dunn’s career with a bang. Released in 1991, the song topped the country charts, marking their first No. 1 single.
The upbeat tune celebrates newfound love, with lyrics describing a man transformed by love. Its catchy melody and relatable theme quickly captured listeners’ hearts.
In 2019, the duo teamed up with Luke Combs to breathe new life into the track, introducing it to a fresh generation of fans.
6. Believe
Brooks & Dunn’s touching ballad tugs at heartstrings with its tale of faith and hope. The lyrics, “I can’t quote the book, the chapter or the verse / You can’t tell me it all ends in a slow ride in a hearse,” capture its poignant essence.
This acoustic tune, largely backed by guitar and organ, swept the 2006 CMA Awards. Rolling Stone later included it on their list of 40 Saddest Country Songs of All Time. Its emotional depth and simple instrumentation make it a favorite for both listeners and guitarists alike.
7. Ain’t Nothing ’bout You
Brooks & Dunn’s hit dominated country radio in 2001, topping the charts for six straight weeks. This medium-tempo yet catchy love song celebrates a partner’s irresistible qualities.
In 2019, the duo teamed up with Brett Young for a slow jam remake on their “Reboot” album. Even pop sensation Taylor Swift covered this sultry tune during The Last Rodeo Tour, showing its cross-genre appeal.
With its memorable melody and romantic lyrics, it’s a fan favorite for both listening and playing on guitar.
8. How Long Gone
This underrated Brooks and Dunn gem packs a punch with its heartbreak theme. The lyrics cleverly use the Southern phrase “a month of Sundays” to convey a long time, adding local flavor to the song.
It tells the story of a man grappling with a breakup, wondering how long his ex will be gone.
Jason Aldean later covered it on The Last Rodeo Tour, breathing new life into this often-overlooked track. Guitar players appreciate its emotive melody and country-rock vibe.
9. Play Something Country
This up-tempo track, backed by electric guitar and a horn section, showcases Brooks & Dunn’s ability to energize the music industry with their signature sound.
The song topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, marking the twentieth and final number-one hit of their career.
In true Brooks and Ronnie fashion, the duo paid tribute to fellow artists with lines like, “I like Kenny, Keith, Allan and Patsy Cline,” solidifying their place as country icons.
10. Cowgirls Don’t Cry
This emotionally charged Brooks & Dunn song got a powerful boost when Reba McEntire joined for a duet version. The country music duo’s lead vocals blend perfectly with Reba’s, creating a heart-wrenching performance.
The emotional weight of Reba’s verse, combined with the key change in the final chorus, adds a new dimension to the song. This duet version was included in their compilation album #1s… and Then Some, further cementing their legacy as a top duo or group in country music.
11. You’re Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone
This classic example of 90s country music showcases Kix Brooks on lead vocals, proving his singing chops despite critics’ doubts. The song features a blend of traditional country elements with a modern twist, becoming their only No. 1 with Kix at the mic.
The duo, often called the Simon and Garfunkel of country music, struck gold with this tune about regret and lost love. Kenny Chesney later covered it on The Last Rodeo Tour, cementing its place in country music history.
12. Lost and Found
This Brooks & Dunn song from the 90s marked a first: Kix Brooks took lead vocals instead of Ronnie Dunn. While it didn’t top the Billboard Hot 100 or other charts like most Brooks and Dunn songs, it’s a fan favorite for its authentic country vibe.
With its singalong quality and genuine country sound, it stands out from modern country-pop. Many listeners consider it a prime example of “real country” from a golden era, showcasing the duo’s versatility and enduring appeal.
Final Words
Brooks & Dunn’s legacy spans traditional and contemporary country, blending honky-tonk with country rock. Their songs evoke nostalgia for many fans, representing an era before bro-country and pop country dominated the airwaves.
Whether you prefer their neo-traditional roots or their more modern hits, this duo’s impact on country music is undeniable. Their timeless tunes continue to resonate with both old and new generations of country listeners.
About the Author
Thomas M., the founder of Guitar Top Review, boasts 15+ years of guitar experience and was a church band member in L.A. Transitioning from piano to acoustic guitar, his first love remains his Taylor GS Mini. Alongside like-minded hobbyist friends, he launched the site, driven by a deep love for music that transcends professional boundaries.