Country duo Brooks and Dunn will be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame this October, and their exhibit at the hall just recently opened. The duo has 20 number one hits, dating all the way back to 1991, two Grammy awards, dozens of ACM and CMA honors and a discography counting more album sales than any country duo in history – regardless of genre.
After taking a break, the duo just released a new album, Reboot featuring Brothers Osborne, Luke Combs, Kacey Musgraves, and more. But here are five things you may not know about the country duo.
1They Were in Their 30’s Before Becoming a Duo
Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn were pursuing solo careers before becoming a duo. In 1990, they formed Brooks and Dunn, both artist in their thirties. Brooks was songwriting for other artists with cuts from The Oak Ridge Boys and John Conlee.
2Brooks likes his coffee “cooked”
Brooks shared with CMT how he likes his coffee, saying, ” I’m actually from Louisiana and usually my coffee cooks for a couple of hours every morning before it’s worth drinking. My driver said it best. He said my coffee is pretty good once you get through the first couple of bites. I like strong, muddy coffee.”
3Dunn Almost Became a Minister
Dunn almost became a Baptist minister as he studied theology at Abilene Christian University. Dunn was asked to leave the college as he was performing at local bars. Dunn moved to Tulas to pursue a country music career.
4Brooks Owns a Production Company
Brooks owns a movie production company – Team Two Entertainment – where he’s appeared in front and behind the camera. Brooks also at one point had a show on the Cooking Channel-“Steak out with Kix Brooks.” For those who visit Arrington Vineyards, Brooks is a founding partner of the vineyard.
5Brooks and Dunn Have Alter Egos
Dunn co-wrote a book with author Bill Fitzhugh titled The Adventures of Slim & Howdy. The book is about their alter egos as they travel the country in pursuit of a music career. Their adventures include encounters with a snake handler, poker game gone wrong and more.
