Introduction
“Building Bridges,” released as a single edit by Brooks & Dunn featuring guest vocals from Sheryl Crow and Vince Gill, stands as a standout track from the duo’s 2005 album Hillbilly Deluxe. The song, originally penned and recorded by Larry Willoughby, was brought to mainstream country prominence through Brooks & Dunn’s heartfelt rendition .
This collaboration is particularly notable because it merges the distinct voices of three music superstars. Ronnie Dunn delivers the emotive lead vocals, while the harmonies of Sheryl Crow and Vince Gill enrich the song’s emotional depths, crafting a warm, inclusive atmosphere . Crow’s earthy tone and Gill’s crystalline tenor lend the track a rich, layered quality that elevated it beyond a standard duet.
Co-produced by Brooks & Dunn along with Tony Brown and Mark Wright (the latter on a few tracks), the track reflects the duo’s signature blend of honky‑tonk and mainstream country . It became the third single lifted from Hillbilly Deluxe, following the successes of “Play Something Country” and “Believe.” “Building Bridges” resonated strongly with audiences, climbing to No. 4 on Billboard’s Country chart in 2006 .
Critics praised the song for its heartfelt message and compelling vocal delivery. Billboard’s Deborah Evans Price lauded Dunn’s “compelling” lead and noted that both Crow and Gill gave the song a “distinctive” sonic character . The track’s uplifting appeal—centered on unity, healing, and emotional connection—earned it a nomination for Musical Event of the Year at the Country Music Association Awards .
The music video, directed by Shaun Silva, further emphasizes the track’s collaborative spirit, featuring the trio performing amid large video screens in a desert setting at dusk—symbolic of forging connections across divides .
Ultimately, Brooks & Dunn’s “Building Bridges” delivers a heartfelt, musically rich message of unity, amplified by the combined artistry of Crow and Gill. It remains a highlight of the duo’s discography and a beloved example of successful cross-artist collaboration in modern country music.
Video
Lyris
[Verse 1]
Since you’ve gone, my heart said something’s wrong
How long can this keep going on?
I’m still blue over losing you
What else am I going to do?
[Chorus]
I’m building bridges straight to your heart
An’ all of this distance won’t keep us apart
Won’t keep us apart
[Verse 2]
Talk to me, talk to me about sympathy
Don’t leave me begging on my knees
Since you’ve gone, my heart says something’s wrong
How long can this keep going on?
[Chorus]
I’m building bridges straight to your heart
An’ all of this distance won’t keep us apart
Won’t keep us apart
[Chorus]
I’m building bridges straight to your heart
An’ all of this distance won’t keep us apart
Won’t keep us apart
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[Chorus]
I’m building bridges straight to your heart
An’ all of this distance won’t keep us apart
Won’t keep us apart
[Chorus]
I’m building bridges straight to your heart
An’ all of this distance won’t keep us apart
Won’t keep us apart