Ronnie Dunn Reflects On His Career-Defining Moment With "My Maria"

Ronnie Dunn gave one of his most career-defining vocal performances on Brooks & Dunn's "My Maria," but in a new interview, he admits that he was not very interested in cutting the song when the idea was first presented to him. This surprising revelation sheds light on the process behind one of the duo's most iconic tracks, showcasing the challenges artists often face when taking on songs with significant history.

Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn both spoke to I Miss…90s Country Radio With Nick Hoffman on Apple Music Country in a wide-ranging interview about their career, and Dunn admits that he was "afraid" to sing "My Maria," which B.W. Stevenson had previously taken to No. 9 on the pop charts after he released it in 1973. This fear of not living up to expectations is a common struggle among musicians, especially when covering songs that have already made their mark.

Dunn's initial reluctance highlights an important aspect of the music industry: the pressure to recreate or exceed the success of past performances. "I was hesitant to do it because I thought, 'Oh man, it's just that falsetto thing,'" Dunn observes. "It's a rock song, in my opinion. And I was very much wrong." This admission not only speaks to Dunn's self-awareness but also serves as a reminder that artists can surprise themselves when they push through their doubts and embrace new challenges.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Ronnie Dunn
• Career Highlights of Brooks & Dunn
• The Story Behind "My Maria"
• Impact of "My Maria" on Country Music
• Final Thoughts on the Legacy of Brooks & Dunn

Biography of Ronnie Dunn

Ronnie Dunn, born on June 1, 1953, in Coleman, Texas, is a renowned country music singer and songwriter. He gained fame as one half of the duo Brooks & Dunn, alongside Kix Brooks. The duo has sold over 30 million albums, making them one of the best-selling country music acts of all time. Dunn is known for his powerful vocal style and heartfelt lyrics, which have resonated with fans for decades.

Career Highlights of Brooks & Dunn

Brooks & Dunn, formed in 1990, quickly became a staple in the country music scene. Their unique blend of rock and country, combined with catchy melodies and relatable lyrics, captured the hearts of millions. The duo has released numerous chart-topping hits, including "Boot Scootin' Boogie," "My Maria," and "Ain't Nothing 'Bout You."

Their debut album, Brand New Man, was a massive success, earning them both commercial and critical acclaim. Over the years, Brooks & Dunn have received numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards and multiple CMA and ACM Awards, solidifying their status as country music legends.

The Story Behind "My Maria"

"My Maria" was originally written and recorded by B.W. Stevenson in 1973, reaching No. 9 on the pop charts. When Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn decided to cover the song, Dunn was initially apprehensive. He felt it was a rock song and was afraid of the high falsetto notes required to perform it. However, Brooks believed in Dunn's talent and pushed for a second recording session, which ultimately led to the song's success.

Their version of "My Maria" served as the first single from their album Borderline, released on March 18, 1996. The song not only reached No. 1 on the country charts but also became the most successful song of the year in country music, earning Brooks & Dunn a Grammy for Best Country Performance by a Vocal Group or Duo.

Impact of "My Maria" on Country Music

The success of "My Maria" had a profound impact on Brooks & Dunn's career and the country music genre as a whole. It showcased the duo's ability to reinvent songs and make them their own, appealing to both traditional and contemporary country music fans. The track helped to bridge the gap between rock and country, paving the way for other artists to explore similar sounds.

Over the years, "My Maria" has been covered by numerous artists and remains a beloved classic in the country music repertoire. Its timeless appeal is a testament to the songwriting and vocal prowess of Brooks & Dunn, solidifying their legacy in the industry.

Final Thoughts on the Legacy of Brooks & Dunn

Brooks & Dunn's journey through the music industry is a remarkable story of talent, perseverance, and passion. Their willingness to take risks, like covering "My Maria," has defined their career and left a lasting impact on country music.

As they continue to perform and inspire new generations of artists, the duo reminds us all that sometimes, stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to unforgettable moments and career-defining successes. The legacy of Brooks & Dunn will undoubtedly live on, as their music continues to resonate with fans around the world.