“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Damn Drunk” by Ronnie Dunn featuring Kix Brooks is more than just a song—it’s a heartfelt reunion of two iconic voices in country music. After a period of solo careers and individual projects, seeing Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks back together feels like welcoming home old friends. This collaboration sparked excitement among fans, reminiscing about the energy and magic they brought as part of Brooks & Dunn.
About The Composition
- Title: Damn Drunk
- Composer: Ronnie Dunn, Kix Brooks, and Ryan Beaver
- Premiere Date: July 29, 2016
- Album/Opus/Collection: Tattooed Heart
- Genre: Country
Background
“Damn Drunk” was released as the second single from Ronnie Dunn’s third solo studio album, Tattooed Heart. Co-written by Dunn, Kix Brooks, and Ryan Beaver, this song stands out as a testament to friendship and camaraderie, while also blending themes of romance. After their split in 2010, fans longed for a reunion, and this song offered a small taste of what made Brooks & Dunn one of country music’s most beloved duos. It was warmly received as a nostalgic return to form, highlighting the undeniable chemistry that still exists between the two.
Musical Style
The musical arrangement of “Damn Drunk” is quintessential country—blending powerful vocals, dynamic harmonies, and rich instrumentation. The song opens with a melodic guitar riff, setting a contemplative yet intense tone. As the song progresses, Dunn’s vocals take center stage, filled with raw emotion and a touch of vulnerability. Kix Brooks’ backing harmonies add depth, making the chorus explode with passion. The structure is straightforward, with a gradual build-up that peaks during the chorus, emphasizing the overwhelming feeling of being “drunk” in love.
Lyrics
“Damn Drunk” explores the theme of love so intoxicating that it’s impossible to resist—comparable to being physically drunk. The lyrics are a poetic declaration of commitment and devotion, wrapped in a metaphor of love’s intoxicating nature:
“I don’t ever wanna get sober,
Don’t wanna get over you.”
The lyrics balance longing and intensity, portraying love as something powerful and consuming. The chorus is where it all culminates, as Dunn’s voice echoes the sentiment of wanting to stay in this euphoric state forever.
Performance History
“Damn Drunk” was first performed live by Ronnie Dunn during select tour dates in 2016, garnering positive feedback from the audience. The song became a symbol of the duo’s shared history, blending new material with the nostalgia of their past hits. It charted modestly on the Country Airplay charts but left a more significant mark due to its significance as a Brooks & Dunn collaboration, even if it wasn’t a full-fledged reunion album.
Cultural Impact
The song reignited fans’ hopes for more Brooks & Dunn collaborations, sparking conversations about their legacy and contributions to the country genre. While it wasn’t a mainstream smash, its release led to discussions about the impact of the duo’s chemistry on modern country music. “Damn Drunk” served as a reminder of the duo’s powerful dynamic and why their music resonates so deeply with fans even years after their split.
Legacy
“Damn Drunk” is often seen as a bridge between the past and present for Brooks & Dunn. It symbolizes their continued relevance and ability to create music that speaks to both long-time fans and new listeners. While not the commercial powerhouse some might expect, it carries a sentimental weight, reflecting their unbreakable bond. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its authenticity and emotional honesty.
Conclusion
“Damn Drunk” is a testament to the power of reuniting with those who make us feel complete—whether in music or in love. The magic of Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks singing together reminds us why their voices, blended as one, have such an everlasting impact. If you’re looking to experience this nostalgic reunion firsthand, check out their live performances on YouTube or dive into Tattooed Heart. It’s a reminder that some partnerships, like great love, never truly fade.
Video
Lyrics
Whoa I, I just wanna ease your mind
Put your doubts to bed tonight
Lay down and let me tell you
You’re, you’re the kind of once in our lives
That lock it down, don’t come around twice
I guess what I’m sayin’
This heart of mine ain’t playin’
If you were this guitar, I’d turn it to eleven
If you were an angel, I’d pray to go to heaven
If they wouldn’t let me in, I’d break the gates down
I’d break ’em all down
If you were on the other side of the world
I’d spin that thing right back around just to get to you, girl
I love the way you always go and mess me up
If you were a whiskey, girl, I’d be a damn drunk
Oh hey, go on and roll those pretty blue eyes
Laugh and say, “Boy, you lie”
Girl, I wouldn’t dare
Dare to make you love me more
I can take that on for sure
‘Cause what we got is crazy, crazy good
If you were this guitar, I’d turn it to eleven
If you were an angel, I’d pray to go to heaven
If they wouldn’t let me in, I’d break the gates down
I’d break ’em all down
If you were on the other side of the world
I’d spin that thing right back around just to get to you, girl
I love the way you always go and mess me up
If you were a whiskey, girl, I’d be a damn drunk
If you were this guitar, I’d turn it to eleven
If you were an angel, I’d pray to go to heaven
If they wouldn’t let me in, I’d break the gates down
I’d break ’em all down
If you were on the other side of the world
I’d spin that thing right back around just to get to you, girl
‘Cause I love the way you always go and mess me up
If you were a whiskey, girl, I’d be a damn drunk
Ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh-ooh
If you were a whiskey, girl, I’d be a damn drunk
Ooh-ooh-ooh