George Strait’s Iconic “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” Moment
“Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” a track synonymous with the duo Brooks & Dunn, stands as one of their most iconic hits. This song’s significance was vividly highlighted during a special event, “ACM Presents: Brooks & Dunn – The Last Rodeo,” held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas a decade ago. This celebratory night was a gathering of sixteen of country music’s brightest stars, each performing various hits from Brooks & Dunn’s illustrious career. The event, however, would not have been complete without a rendition of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie.” In a surprising and thrilling turn, George Strait, known as the King of Country, was the one to deliver this performance.
George Strait’s rendition of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” was a vibrant and lively affair that instantly captivated the audience. Even before he began his performance, the star-studded crowd was already on their feet, eagerly anticipating what was to come. Adding to the uniqueness of this performance, Kix Brooks, one half of the Brooks & Dunn duo, joined in from the sidelines, playing the harmonica. This collaboration made the performance not just memorable but also one of the best moments of the night. It was a true celebration of the song’s enduring legacy in the world of country music.
The night, although tinged with a sense of melancholy due to Brooks & Dunn’s retirement announcement, was filled with an incredible energy contributed by the audience. While George Strait’s rendition of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” was a standout moment, he was not the only artist paying tribute to the legendary duo. Other stars like Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift, Faith Hill, Miranda Lambert, and Carrie Underwood were also present, each performing their renditions of Brooks & Dunn’s greatest hits. Their collective performances made the evening a remarkable tribute to the duo’s impact on country music.
“Boot Scootin’ Boogie” holds a special place in country music history. Penned by Ronnie Dunn, it’s a song that celebrates the joy of line dancing in a Texas honky-tonk setting. Originally released by Asleep At The Wheel in their 1990 album “Keepin’ Me Up Nights,” it was later covered by Brooks & Dunn and featured on their debut album “Brand New Man.” Their version soared to the top of the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and even crossed over to the mainstream, peaking at No. 50 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. This song wasn’t just a hit; it was a cultural phenomenon that reignited a nationwide interest in line dancing and played a significant role in shaping the New Country scene of the early 1990s. The video of George Strait’s performance of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” honoring Brooks & Dunn, remains a testament to the song’s legacy and the duo’s influential career in country music.
