Introduction
Brooks & Dunn’s rendition of “Husbands and Wives” was released in 1998 as the fourth and final single from their album If You See Her. The song is a cover of Roger Miller’s original 1966 classic, which reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Miller’s version carried a somber reflection on the emotional disconnect that often grows in romantic relationships, and Brooks & Dunn preserved that sentiment in their interpretation while adding their signature modern country style.
Ronnie Dunn’s soulful lead vocals lent a fresh emotional depth to the song, giving it a more contemporary yet haunting resonance. The lyrics explore the quiet dissolution of a marriage, highlighting how pride and misunderstanding can erode love between two people. Lines like “Two broken hearts, lonely, looking like houses where nobody lives” encapsulate the stark emotional landscape of a failing relationship.
The Brooks & Dunn version resonated deeply with audiences, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart in 1998. It became one of the standout tracks of their career and is often praised for its heartfelt delivery and timeless message. The minimalist arrangement and melancholy tone contrast with the duo’s more upbeat hits, showcasing their versatility as artists.
“Husbands and Wives” stands as a bridge between generations of country music. By covering Roger Miller’s song, Brooks & Dunn paid homage to the genre’s storytelling roots while reinforcing their place in the tradition of emotionally honest songwriting. The track continues to be remembered for its raw portrayal of relationship struggles and its ability to connect with listeners across decades.
Video
Lyric
[Verse 1]
Two broken hearts, lonely, lookin’ like houses
Where nobody lives
Two people each havin’ so much pride inside
Neither side forgives
[Chorus]
The angry words spoken in haste
Such a waste of two lives
It’s my belief pride is the chief cause in the decline
In the number of husbands and wives
[Bridge]
A woman and a man, a man and a woman
Some can, some can’t, some can’t
[Verse 2]
Oh, two broken hearts lonely lookin’ like houses
Where nobody lives
Two people each havin’ so much pride inside
Neither side forgives
[Chorus]
The angry words spoken in haste
Such a waste of two lives
Oh, it’s my belief pride is the chief cause in the decline
In the number of husbands and wives
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[Outro]
Yeah, it’s my belief pride is the chief cause in the decline
In the number of husbands and wives