George Strait Stuns with Unique “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” Performance
“Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” a track synonymous with the iconic duo Brooks & Dunn, stands out as one of their most memorable hits. This song’s impact and popularity were vividly showcased during the special event, “ACM Presents: Brooks & Dunn – The Last Rodeo,” which took place a decade ago at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. This extraordinary night featured sixteen of the country’s most renowned stars, who came together to perform a selection of Brooks & Dunn’s greatest hits. The evening’s performances were incomplete without someone taking on “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” and to everyone’s delight, it was George Strait, the King of Country, who rose to the occasion.
George Strait’s performance of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” was nothing short of spectacular. As soon as he took the stage, the excitement was palpable, with the audience rising to their feet in anticipation. Adding a unique touch to the performance, Kix Brooks himself played the harmonica, enhancing this already memorable rendition. Strait’s vibrant and energetic delivery turned this into an unforgettable moment, ensuring that the song lived up to its legendary status.
Despite the bittersweet undertone of the event, marked by Brooks & Dunn’s announcement of retirement, the atmosphere was electric, fueled by the audience’s enthusiastic participation. While Strait’s rendition was a standout moment, he was not the only artist paying tribute to the duo. Other country music stars, including Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift, Faith Hill, Miranda Lambert, and Carrie Underwood, also delivered heartfelt performances of their favorite Brooks & Dunn songs, each adding their unique flair to the duo’s celebrated catalog.
The legacy of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” extends beyond this event. Penned by Ronnie Dunn, the song is a lively homage to line dancing in Texas-style honky-tonks. Initially released by Asleep At The Wheel on their 1990 album “Keepin’ Me Up Nights,” Brooks & Dunn later covered the song for their debut album “Brand New Man.” Their version soared to the top of the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and even broke into the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 50. Its immense success is credited with reigniting a nationwide interest in line dancing, cementing Brooks & Dunn’s influence on the early ’90s New Country scene. George Strait’s electrifying rendition of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” in honor of Brooks & Dunn’s illustrious career, is a testament to the song’s enduring appeal and the duo’s lasting impact on country music.
