Introduction
“Boot Scootin’ Boogie” is a rollicking country anthem written by Ronnie Dunn and originally recorded by Asleep at the Wheel for their 1990 album Keepin’ Me Up Nights. A few months later, Brooks & Dunn—on their debut album Brand New Man—released their own take, initially as the B-side to “My Next Broken Heart.” Yet it soared in popularity and became their fourth single, earning them their fourth consecutive No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart .
Though the song almost didn’t see the light of day—both the duo and their label were hesitant about its unconventional sound and timing—fan enthusiasm forced its release. As Kix Brooks recalls, it was audiences flocking to radio stations and buzz from club performances that ultimately propelled it forward .
Released in May 1992, “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” dominated the charts—topping Billboard’s country chart for four weeks in August and becoming Brooks & Dunn’s breakthrough crossover hit, even reaching No. 50 on the Hot 100 . Its vibrant depiction of a honky-tonk dance hall and irresistible rhythm ignited a nationwide line-dancing craze, spawning numerous choreographed routines (thanks in part to the popular version by Bill Bader), and revitalizing the country-dance scene of the early ’90s .
The song also earned industry recognition. At the 1992 Academy of Country Music Awards, “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” won Single Record of the Year, and was nominated for Song of the Year .
Fast forward to 2010: during Brooks & Dunn’s farewell concert special ACM Presents: Brooks & Dunn – The Last Rodeo, industry peers paid tribute to the duo’s enduring legacy. Among the standout moments was George Strait’s electrifying cover of “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” complete with Kix Brooks joining on harmonica—a performance that reignited the crowd’s energy and underscored the song’s timeless charm.
This introduction captures the song’s journey—from its bold emergence, chart-topping success, cultural impact through line dancing, to its celebrated revival by the King of Country himself during a heartfelt tribute.