A Night to Remember: George Strait’s “Boot Scootin’ Boogie”
“Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” a track synonymous with Brooks & Dunn, holds a special place as one of their most iconic hits. This was emphatically proven during the event “ACM Presents: Brooks & Dunn – The Last Rodeo,” which took place a decade ago at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. This star-studded tribute to the duo saw sixteen of country music’s finest artists come together to perform Brooks & Dunn’s greatest hits. The night, brimming with musical tributes, would have been incomplete without a rendition of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie.” The honor of performing this particular number fell to none other than George Strait, affectionately known as the King of Country, making it a highlight of the evening.
George Strait’s performance of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” was nothing short of electrifying. As he took the stage, the excitement was palpable, with the audience rising to their feet in anticipation even before the first note was sung. Adding a special touch to this memorable performance was Kix Brooks himself, who joined in with his harmonica, blending seamlessly into the act. This collaboration created an unforgettable moment, showcasing the song’s enduring appeal and Strait’s remarkable talent.
Amidst the bittersweet atmosphere, as the event also marked Brooks & Dunn’s retirement announcement, the energy in the room was unyielding. George Strait’s tribute was a standout, but he was not the only artist paying homage to the legendary duo. The night saw other country music luminaries such as Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift, Faith Hill, Miranda Lambert, and Carrie Underwood, each adding their unique flavor to Brooks & Dunn’s classics. Their performances collectively turned the evening into a remarkable celebration of Brooks & Dunn’s contribution to country music.
“Boot Scootin’ Boogie” itself holds a significant place in country music history. Penned by Ronnie Dunn of Brooks & Dunn, the song is an ode to line dancing in a Texas-style honky-tonk, painting vivid images of lively nightlife in the country. Originally released by Asleep At The Wheel in 1990, Brooks & Dunn’s version catapulted to fame, topping the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and even breaking into the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. Its immense popularity is credited with reviving line dancing across the United States, cementing Brooks & Dunn’s impact on the early ’90s New Country scene. George Strait’s rendition of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” at the tribute event not only honored Brooks & Dunn’s illustrious career but also reminded everyone of the song’s pivotal role in shaping the country music landscape.
