Introduction
Brooks & Dunn’s live rendition of “Play Something Country (Live at Cain’s Ballroom)” captures the heart-pounding energy of one of country music’s most iconic duos in a legendary setting. Originally released as the lead single from their 2005 album Hillbilly Deluxe, the song quickly soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart—marking Brooks & Dunn’s twentieth and final chart-topping hit to date . Penned by Ronnie Dunn and Terry McBride and produced alongside Kix Brooks and Tony Brown, its punchy mix of electric guitar and horns nods to neotraditional country, while urging audiences to “play something country” .
The song’s inspiration emerged during a tour stop in Minnesota, when Ronnie Dunn, fired up by the bold spirit of fellow artist Gretchen Wilson—who co‑starred on the Deuces Wild tour—cried out the title line as a rebellious rally for authentic country sound . This vivacious, “ballsy chick” persona became the song’s central character, playfully demanding real-deal country tunes instead of modern pop–country fare . The studio version features a vibrant, uptempo feel driven by horns and electrifying guitars, setting a festive tone for listeners.
Fast‑forward to 2005, Brooks & Dunn chose one of American country’s most hallowed stages—Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa, Oklahoma—for a live music video and concert taping . Building in 1924 and famed as a cradle for western swing, Bob Wills, and more, Cain’s adds authenticity and history to the live capture . Footage from the concert—filmed for Country Music Television—features Dunn delivering vocals with gritty passion alongside the full band, while Brooks amps up the crowd in the iconic room .
This version of “Play Something Country” isn’t just a performance—it’s a celebration: of the duo’s storied career, of southern musical tradition, and of the vibrant live atmosphere that keeps country music’s roots alive. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new listener, this live cut pulses with infectious energy, honoring both the song’s playful spirit and Cain’s Ballroom’s legendary stage.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1: Lainey Wilson, Brooks & Dunn, Both]
Well, she blew through the door like TNT
Put her hand on her hip, pointed her finger at me
Said, “I’m a whiskey drinking, cowboy chasing, helluva time
I like Kenny, Keith, Alan and Patsy Cline
I’m a full grown Queen Bee looking for honey
Ah-ooh-ooh, aw, play something country”
Yeah, the band took a break
The DJ played P.Diddy
She said, “I didn’t come here to hear
Something thumping from the city
I shaved my legs, I paid my money
Ah-ooh-ooh, aw, play something country
Yeah, ah-ooh-ooh, aw, play something country”
[Chorus: Brooks & Dunn, Lainey Wilson, Both]
Crank up the band, play the steel guitar
Hank it up a little, let’s rock this bar
Thrеw back a shot, yelled, “I’m a Georgе Strait junkie”
Ah-ooh-ooh, aw, play something country
Ah-ooh-ooh, go on and play something country
[Verse 2: Brooks & Dunn, Lainey Wilson, Both]
Yeah, the bartender yelled, “Y’all, it’s closing time”
She got this wild look on her face
And said, “Your truck or mine?
I know a place down the road
It’s kinda funky”
Ah-ooh-ooh
Oh, ah-ooh-ooh, play something country, aw
See Brooks & Dunn Live
Get tickets as low as $85
You might also like
Play Something Country
Brooks & Dunn
Ain’t Nothing ’Bout You (2024)
Brooks & Dunn
Rock My World (Little Country Girl) [2024]
Brooks & Dunn
[Chorus: Brooks & Dunn, Lainey Wilson, Both]
Crank up the band, play the steel guitar
Hank it up a little, let’s rock this bar
Threw back a shot, yelled, “I’m a George Strait junkie” (George Strait junkie)
Ah-ooh-ooh, play something country
Oh, Ah-ooh-ooh, aw, play something country
Oh, oh
[Chorus: Lainey Wilson, Brooks and Dunn, Both]
Oh, crank up the band, play the steel guitar
Hank it up a little, let’s rock this bar
Threw back a shot, yelled, “I’m a George Strait junkie”
Ah-ooh-ooh, aw, play something country
Ah-ooh-ooh, aw, play something country
Ah-ooh-ooh, oh
Ah-ooh-ooh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, play something country
Mmm, woo