Brooks & Dunn News

(5/25/02, 7 a.m. ET) -- Surprising news of Alabama's retirement during the live broadcast of the Academy Of Country Music Awards Wednesday (May 22) night had fellow artists Brooks & Dunn reflecting on their first tour opening for Alabama over 10 years ago.

The award-winning duo, who captured the entertainer of the year award, said that while they haven't been on the road as long as Alabama, they certainly understand the supergroup's desire to head home once and for all. Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn tell LAUNCH.

"Well, you gotta realize Alabama's 20 years down the road," Brooks says.

Dunn adds, "And about 30 million records ahead of us."

Brooks continues, "That's right. We talk about 12 years. I know where their head's at. It's been a great run for 'em and I can see where they're ready to call it a day and go tend to their farms and do whatever. What a great career and a great inspiration. They turned a lot of corners on country music."

Brooks & Dunn admit they have struggled with the demands of maintaining a successful career. At times the personal sacrifice is almost too great, Dunn explains. "It's like we take turns every year retiring. This year's mine. Two years ago in South Dakota I walked up on his bus with tears streaming down my face. I said, 'I cannot be away from my kids anymore. I can't take this.' I said, 'It's over. Next year let's quit.' Last year he did the same thing. This year we looked at one other and we go, 'One more? You got one more in you?'"

Brooks & Dunn are in the midst of their top-grossing Neon Circus & Wild West Show with fellow artists Dwight Yoakam, Gary Allan, Chris Cagle, and Trick Pony. The duo's current single, "My Heart Is Lost To You," claims the Number 17 spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.

-- Margy Holland, Los Angeles

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