Introduction
“Where the Neon Lies” is a stirring neo‑traditional country duet by Triston Marez and country legend Ronnie Dunn, released in April 2021 as a single from Marez’s self‑titled debut album. Co‑written by Marez alongside Chris DuBois and Lynn Hutton, the song embodies the classic ’90s Nashville sound, weaving a tapestry of pedal‑steel and authentic honky‑tonk storytelling .
Born and raised in a musical family in Houston, Texas, Marez began playing guitar at age six and won the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo talent competition in 2014—an achievement that helped launch his career. After moving to Nashville at 18, he released two EPs before recording his debut album, on which he co-wrote nine of the 12 tracks .
The genesis of the song is rooted in Marez’s personal heartbreak. It unfolds as a late-night reverie in a neon-lit bar, where alcohol and longing blur into a false hope that a past love might return. Marez explained that the song reflects the emotional mirage conjured up by drink and neon glow—thinking “she’ll be coming back” when, in reality, moving on is necessary .
Marez’s manager suggested Ronnie Dunn should join the track—a suggestion that became reality when Dunn responded enthusiastically, recorded his vocals, and brought his legendary barroom tenor to the arrangement . Dunn’s contribution adds emotional weight and authenticity to the sonic landscape, elevating the song from personal confession to classic country duet.
Blending Tejano influences, ’90s country polish, and a Texas heart, “Where the Neon Lies” showcases Marez’s roots and songwriting skill, while Ronnie Dunn’s appearance cements the track within the grand tradition of tear‑soaked barroom anthems