Introduction
Ronnie Dunn—best known as one half of the legendary country duo Brooks & Dunn—launched his solo career in 2011 after a storied run that included 23 number-one hits and multiple awards alongside Kix Brooks . His self-titled debut solo album, released on June 7, 2011 via Arista Nashville, marked the first full-length album he’d released under his own name, nearly 25 years after his early solo attempts in the 1980s .
“I Can’t Help Myself” is one of the standout tracks from that album, presented with a promotional music video that debuted in 2011 . Showcasing Dunn’s signature soulful vocals and introspective lyrical tone, the song reflects his journey from duo-member into a confident, singular artistic identity.
The album itself was crafted in Nashville, across renowned studios including Ocean Way and Blackbird Studio, with Dunn taking full creative control as both producer and lead singer . By embracing full artistic ownership, he shaped songs that balance personal storytelling with the polished country-rock sound he’s become known for. “I Can’t Help Myself” highlights Dunn’s emotional depth—revealing vulnerability and desire, yet delivered with the powerful baritone that made him so compelling as part of Brooks & Dunn.
This solo effort arrived on the heels of powerfully received singles like “Bleed Red,” which hit the top ten on Billboard’s Country chart, and paved the way for subsequent releases like “Cost of Livin’” . With “I Can’t Help Myself,” Dunn furthers his reinvention—transitioning from one half of a celebrated duo to a fully realized solo artist, retaining his authenticity while exploring new facets of his musical voice.
Video
Lyrics
This was wrong, right from the start
Nothin’ more than a one way ticket to a broken heart
Lock me up, throw away the key
No matter how you see it, this just can’t be
Well, I know that you belong to someone else
And I try, but I can’t help myself
I can see the dark clouds building, building up ahead
The devil singin’ like a chorus of angels, messin’ with my head
With all my strength, all my power, I fight the fight
As much as it feels good to us, it’s just not right
Well, I know that you belong to someone else
I try, but I can’t help myself
Well, I know that you belong to someone else
I try, but I can’t help myself
Well, I know that you belong to someone else
I try, but I can’t help myself